Best Dispersed Camping near Elberta, MI
Looking for dispersed camping near Elberta? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Michigan excursion.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Elberta, MI (8)
1. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Free Soil, Michigan16 Reviews•58 Photos•512 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Government Landing Campground
Wellston, Michigan3 Reviews•6 Photos•114 SavesManistee National Recreation River This camping area is named for Government Island. The 3 campsites are part of the Forest Services' 41 designated dispersed sites along the Upper Manistee River. The main access road along the powerline is a snowmobile trail in the winter. Brochure with map : Manistee River This brochure is set to print on 11 x 17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. To print on 8 1/2 x 11 paper set the print area to "shrink to printable area", this will make the text on the page smaller. Flickr Photo Albums Manistee River
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
4. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Williamsburg, Michigan8 Reviews•40 Photos•348 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
5. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Ludington, Michigan3 Reviews•8 Photos•150 SavesDispersed foot traffic and primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".Plan Your Trip: Dispersed Camping
Some things to keep in mind when planning where you will be camping are: There is no camping within 200 feet of any body of water, except at designated sites. There is no camping within 400 feet of the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manistee and Au Sable Rivers. Camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to tents, camper trailers and/or tarps) is allowed in the same location for up to fourteen (14) days. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. A permit is NOT required to camp on National Forest System lands outside of designated campgrounds. Motorized vehicles may only be operated on designated roads, trails or areas open to that use. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Elberta
32 Reviews of 8 Elberta Campgrounds
William A.
Traveler
Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Great place
Super close to manistee beach, came in on the weekend mid September, almost all the camp spots were taken. Forest was super eerie but beautiful.
Gills an B.
Scout
Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Everything that it said it was
To many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure
- AAmber R.Traveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Breathtaking
Absolutely one of the most beautiful sites that I have seen yet. Secluded enough for my dog to roam. Large open site surrounded by trees. I have a promaster and made it through the rough sand road.
- ddeven S.Scout
Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Awesome fishing and great camp sites
Me and my dad went camping here rode our motorcycles into the parking area and had a nice little hike to the camp ground! Very nice camp sites once we got set up we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!
- HHunter G.Traveler
Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Beautiful
Take green road toward cooper creek road and find an empty spot! Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road.
Rachael T.ScoutSand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Beautiful but difficult to find!
We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer. You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!
- Sara W.
GuideGreen Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Great dry camping
Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city.
- DDan K.Guide
Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Amazing area
Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody. Fires were allowed ample firewood available for processing multiple lakes great hiking. 
Literally , some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast.
Beautiful nature area I loved hiking in and hiking around the various lakes seeing what the area had to offer. One of the best times I’ve ever had camping. Great company also helps. 
Corey M.GuideNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
For Forest Dwellers and Lake Lovers
This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem. Forest service roads will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it. 4WD is recommended if you want to go deep. There are plenty of great spots though for big rigs or for those without 4WD. 15-30 minute drive to Lake Michigan. Local convenience store is only a few miles down the road. Try this place out. You won’t regret it.
Alyson M.
Legend
Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
Great Campsites!
Did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful! We actually had a spot on the NCT side, the spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!
- Alyson M.Legend
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
My Go-To Camping spot
I’ve camped here many times, in summer, fall, and spring. The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy. It can get busy on weekends since many people know about this spot. It is a short drive to the beach and nordhouse dunes which is known for hammock camping on the beach so you have options. The last 2 times I’ve went there was lots of trash at the campsites, which is very upsetting. Please follow “Leave No Trace” ethics so we can keep enjoying this space.
Jeff D.ScoutNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
The dunes were amazing!
Next time I'm coming back to hammock camp. Place is awesome. Not much bugs.
Connor N.
RangerNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Nice boondocking spot with access to Lake Michigan!
Spent a few nights here enjoying Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan. During our stay we relocated from our original site to a bigger site further down the road heading south. Sites ranged from spacious to road-side turnouts with a wide range between. Verizon service was fair. Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves. Will definitely stay again next time we visit Michigan!
- NNoah E.Legend
Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Directions were unclear
After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground.
Troy L.GuideManistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
Good for a 2-day camp.
Great river trail with a decent amount of campsites. We arrived late Friday and most spots were taken. I’d imagine most spots are scoped out earlier in the evening. A lot of people camping/running/hiking. The east side of the river is more hilly but has an abundance of water spots to fill up. The west side of the river doesn’t have any water spots until about the last mile north at a small bridge. Plenty of firewood to salvage on both sides, albeit some of it was wet. We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night. Hammock was not the best option but always made for a good story to tell your friends. Second night was good. We stayed atop the crest of a hill on the west side down a path. There are designated camp sites with markers but we didn’t opt for making it a point to find one. Any place off the beaten path will do. You will see some spots that people have camped.
evi L.TravelerNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Dispersed campsites
Beautiful area with a lot of dispersed campsites, accessible by pretty much any vehicle, although the road is a bit sandy, so maybe take precautions after rain. Large sites, some with more privacy than others, and plenty of ideal hammocking trees. Also, there's a few more sites if you take the road (right side on main rd) across the street from the entrance into this area. I had no problem finding firewood around the area, but there's a general store less than 10 minutes away that sells firewood and basic necessities, cash only during my visit on 03SEP2021 (beer, schnacks, etc.) No toilets or glamping amenities.
- Drew M.Scout
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Quite
A relaxing getaway from the bustling city...
CameronGuideNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Awesome spaced out large sites
Easy access, and the sites are about 50 to 200ft from each other! I love the pine tree+fern forrest. Super sandy area, but it’s nice to walk around barefoot. Haven’t seen any thorn bushes while collecting firewood. There’s no toilets or water so bring a few gallons and be prepared to poop in a hole.
Darwin N.GuideNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
NF dispersed camping
First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace". Other than that I had a great time.
- Kimberly S.Guide
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
First time dispersed camping
This was our first time trying out dispersed camping and this location was perfect! We loved being a short drive away from Lake Michigan and plenty of hiking trails. It is in a beautiful wooded area and there were hardly an mosquitos where we were. My only complaint is that the previous visitors at our campsite left trash everywhere and had clearly had fires in at least 4 different areas. The campsite was covered in ash because of it. It’s disappointing to see that some people really just don’t care about taking care of public land.
- MMarinoTraveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Nice Spot...Easy Access
Sites are nice and easy to access... no issues with the road coming in... the dispersed camping is free but if you drive and park in the lots for the dunes/beach access it requires a pass or 5$ a day fee
Bobbi Jo K.TravelerNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
A Hidden Gem
This was our first time boondocking in this area. It was beautiful, especially in the fall. Roads are great until you get to the road to camp. There are very large holes and dips, thankfully we found a spot right away before we got in far. Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!). Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!
Courtney K.ScoutNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Beautiful & free rustic camping spots!
All up and down green Rd. there’s a ton of quiet pull offs, some with fire pits some without. We don’t have 4wd and it was fine (we went in October). And if it’s not what you’re looking for there’s also a more traditional campsite, $27 per night right up the road with facilities. The free spots were perfect for us tho!
- Shelagh R.Guide
Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
Beautiful sites and pleasant hiking
Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far. No matter where you end up setting up camp, you're in for a beautiful and gentle hike.
- Deanna A.Traveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
We love it here!
We vowed to return in a month and driving there now for a long Labor Day weekend. Quiet, though our site was adjacent to a trailhead. The forest is stunning and mesmerizing! 5 min hike to dunes/beach. Never want to camp at a campground again.
- Shelly B.Ranger
Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
MI Backpacking at its Finest!
Too much to say about this!
Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side).
Note; NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots.
My review describes some of the MRT spots.
Katana H.ScoutSand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
Slightly Confusing
We arrived somewhat late on the first night and had a hard time finding a proper area to camp. We eventually popped up a small tent near a hiking trail to avoid getting lost. After some driving around the next morning, we managed to find a quiet spot near the river which was quite relaxing! Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of tics though so we avoided the trails. I didn’t find many clear areas with safe water to swim in which was disappointing but I will definitely be going back!
Guide to Elberta
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Elberta, Michigan, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.
Top Activities While Free Camping Near Elberta
- Enjoy hiking along the scenic trails at Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, where you can explore beautiful landscapes and find designated sites for a peaceful night under the stars.
- Experience the stunning views and privacy at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, perfect for those who love to hike and relax by the lake.
- Take advantage of the fishing opportunities at Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, where clear waters and ample firewood make for an ideal camping experience.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Elberta, Michigan
- Always check for accessibility before heading to Government Landing Campground, as some sites may be challenging to navigate, especially with larger vehicles.
- Bring your own water supply when visiting Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, as there are no drinking water facilities available on-site.
- Be prepared for varying conditions at Lime Lake, where a permit is required, ensuring a more controlled and enjoyable camping experience.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Manistee National Forest
- Explore the vast wilderness of Manistee National Forest, where you can find numerous free dispersed camping spots with plenty of space between sites.
- Experience the eerie yet beautiful atmosphere of the forest, as noted by visitors who appreciate the natural surroundings and starry nights.
- Take advantage of the proximity to Manistee Beach, making it a great location for those who want to combine forest camping with beach activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Elberta, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Elberta, MI is Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road with a 4.9-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Elberta, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Elberta, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.