Best Dispersed Camping near Custer, MI
Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Manistee National Forest near Custer, Michigan. The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness area along Green Road offers numerous free primitive campsites with spacious, secluded sites spaced approximately 50-200 feet apart. Several campers noted the pine and fern forest creates a peaceful setting with sandy soil underfoot. Additional dispersed camping can be found at Green Road Dispersed, Sawkaw Lake, and along the Manistee River Trail.
No facilities are provided at most dispersed sites. Pack in all necessary water and be prepared for primitive sanitation. Fire rings exist at some sites, but not all. According to reviews, firewood can be gathered on-site or purchased at a general store approximately 10 minutes from the Green Road sites. Road conditions vary significantly; many access roads feature sandy sections with large holes and dips. Four-wheel drive is recommended for accessing deeper forest sites, though standard vehicles can reach many areas, particularly in dry conditions.
The area experiences high weekend usage during summer months. Weekday visits offer greater solitude, especially at Sawkaw Lake. Wildlife encounters include coyotes at some locations. Adherence to Leave No Trace principles is essential, as multiple visitors report finding trash at previously used sites. The Nordhouse Dunes beach access requires a $5 daily fee or recreation pass, though the dispersed camping itself remains free. Cell service is available in many areas but should not be relied upon. The forest provides excellent stargazing opportunities on clear nights, with minimal light pollution compared to urban areas.
