Best Dispersed Camping near Fife Lake, MI

Northern Michigan's Fife Lake region encompasses several rustic camping options within a 30-mile radius, primarily featuring dispersed sites in state forests and along waterways. The Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers backcountry campsites near pristine lakes with ratings averaging 4.5 stars, while the Manistee River Trail provides dispersed camping along a popular hiking route. Government Landing Campground and Goose Creek Trail Camp round out the options with riverside sites that accommodate both tent and small trailer camping. Most locations maintain a primitive character with basic amenities, focusing on natural settings rather than developed facilities.

Campground navigation requires preparation as several locations have limited signage and can be difficult to locate. As one camper noted, "We struggled to find this place... We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off." Seasonal considerations affect both access and comfort, with late May temperatures occasionally dropping to freezing overnight according to visitor reports. Insect activity, particularly ticks, becomes prevalent in summer months, prompting multiple reviewers to recommend bug protection. Most sites permit fires and allow pets, though drinking water is rarely available and must be packed in or filtered from natural sources.

Fishing opportunities receive consistent praise from visitors to the Sand Lakes area, with one camper reporting, "Some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count." Privacy varies by location and timing, with weekends bringing higher occupancy rates to popular sites. The Manistee River Trail offers a 23-mile loop combining the North Country Trail, with campers noting differences between the two sides: "The NCT is further from the river and a bit hilly, but the MRT sites are nicer." Trailer access is limited at most locations, with one Government Landing visitor cautioning, "This was a very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fife Lake, Michigan (6)

    1. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    8 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    10 miles
    Website

    "We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it."

    "We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer."

    2. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."

    "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."

    3. Goose Creek Trail Camp

    2 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    $6 - $8 / night

    "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river - it was my young horses first time being in the water and the stairs"

    4. Government Landing Campground

    4 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "This was a very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."

    "I hear it’s darn near impossible to find an open site During June-August. Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails a d routes are in close proximity."

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Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fife Lake, MI

15 Reviews of 6 Fife Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Fife Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fife Lake, Michigan, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers several spots that cater to different camping styles, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Fife Lake, Michigan

Fishing opportunities for dispersed campers

Hiking adventures while free camping near Fife Lake

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Fife Lake, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Fife Lake, MI is Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Fife Lake, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Fife Lake, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.