Dispersed camping opportunities near Free Soil, Michigan provide access to numerous outdoor recreation activities throughout Manistee National Forest. The area features sandy terrain that's relatively flat with small rolling hills, with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime, while dropping into the 50s overnight, creating comfortable conditions for pets and their owners at dog friendly campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Lake Michigan Recreation Area connects directly to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness with miles of sandy trails through diverse terrain. "Great place to go to introduce someone to backpacking. It's easy, plenty of water around, no predators... it's camping on the beach for crying out loud!" notes Dave E. who recommends "walking as close to the water as possible, where the sand has been matted down."
Fishing spots: Sulak Campground offers prime river access for anglers. "We visited during the government shut down, and this site was perfect! Campsites are in national forest but (single) pit toilet was accessible because it's on state property!! Was amazing to connect from the site directly to the North Country Trail and fishing access could not have been better," shares Cristina S. The Little Manistee River is particularly known for salmon runs in fall.
Swimming options: Cedar Campground at Ludington State Park features both Lake Michigan and inland lake swimming. "You can ride bikes, you can kayak, you can walk some trails, float down a river, or go to Lake Michigan. Restrooms were nice. There are also sand dunes and a lighthouse within walking distance of campground," explains Kelly L.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Green Road Dispersed sites in Manistee National Forest offer excellent separation. "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," reports Hunter G. This spacing allows pets to remain comfortable while still maintaining appropriate containment.
Clean facilities: Despite being rustic, Sulak Campground maintains decent amenities. "Sites have picnic table and fire ring with cooking (rusty) thing over it," notes Jordan A. The campground provides vault toilets though no running water, making it important to bring water for both humans and pets.
Natural features: The dune environment creates unique camping experiences. "The forest is stunning and mesmerizing! 5 min hike to dunes/beach. Never want to camp at a campground again," exclaims Deanna A. about Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness on Green Road. The sandy soil stays relatively cool in shaded areas even during hot days.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. "No showers or electric but that is ok because the sites are huge, the quiet is amazing and the location is second to none!" explains Lisa B. about Lake Michigan Recreation Area. Plan to bring all necessary supplies including drinking water for yourself and pets.
Accessibility challenges: Many roads to dispersed sites can be difficult to navigate. "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," warns Bobbi Jo K. about Nordhouse Dunes on Green Road. Higher clearance vehicles manage better on these forest roads.
Seasonal considerations: Fall brings cooler temperatures but fewer crowds. "Great campground and especially beautiful in the autumn. Be warned it gets chilly at night even in September/October," advises Daav I. about Sulak Campground. Summer weekends see significantly higher usage across all camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Marzinski Horse Trail Campground offers more amenities for families with pets. "This established and well maintained campground is free, and you can stay up to two weeks. There's a well kept pit toilet, 21 established campsites w/ firerings, and even a water pump (meant for horses)," shares evi L.
Pack extra water: With limited water sources, bring adequate supplies for cooking, drinking, and pet needs. "There's picnic tables, fire rings, clean bathrooms. No power, no water, compost toilets. Short walk to the beach," explains Michael U. about Nordhouse Dunes. Most campers recommend at least one gallon per person per day, plus additional for pets.
Prepare for insects: Bug protection is essential in summer months. "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," notes William A. Early mornings and evenings typically see increased mosquito activity, especially in wooded areas away from the beach.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: For RVers seeking dispersed options, Poncho's Pond RV Park offers full hookups near Free Soil. "The Layout of the campground is great. Perfect to bring your pets. Nice pools and close enough to the state park to go tubing or a beach day at Lake Michigan," recommends Lisa M.
Leveling challenges: Many rustic sites require significant leveling. "Not a bad spot. Only 3 people here week of Memorial Day. Sites aren't bad. All will accommodate at 25ft RV and some a 30," mentions Jordan A. about Sulak Campground. Carrying extra leveling blocks is recommended for most dispersed camping areas.
Solar potential: Many sites offer sufficient sun for solar setups despite tree cover. "The sites are mostly shaded but we were able to get enough sunlight for our solar panels," shares Roxana A. about camping at Sulak. This makes extended stays possible even without hookups for those with proper power management.
