Frankfort is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Frankfort and user-submitted reviews.
"Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."
"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."
"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". "
"This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem."
"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."
"Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond."
"Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."
"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."
"Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes."
"Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road."
GuideFirst 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.
GuideThis 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.
TravelerThis 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!
GuideThis 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.
LegendI’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.
GuideAbsolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.
From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.
I’d love to come again.
RangerSpent 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!
GuideGreat 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.
Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!
ScoutThis is such a beautiful site, we stayed here a few days two years ago. Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes. Many sites were available to us, we chose to utilize our favorite site.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Frankfort, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, it's the perfect getaway for those looking to connect with the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping options in Frankfort, Michigan?
The Frankfort area offers excellent dispersed camping opportunities in the surrounding Manistee National Forest. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road (dispersed) is a popular location with spacious sites scattered throughout the forest. For backpacking options, Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers park-and-walk camping spots in a serene northern Michigan wilderness setting. Both locations provide good access to hiking trails and are within reasonable driving distance from Frankfort.
Is overnight boondocking allowed in Frankfort, MI?
Yes, overnight boondocking is allowed near Frankfort in designated areas within Manistee National Forest. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping offers free boondocking opportunities that are less crowded than traditional campsites. Government Landing Campground is another option for overnight stays. Most forest service roads in the region allow boondocking, with some sites suitable for big rigs while others require 4WD. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, as improper waste disposal has been noted in reviews.
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Frankfort, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Frankfort, MI is Lime Lake with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Frankfort, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Frankfort, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
