Dispersed camping options within 45 minutes of Glen Arbor, Michigan provide budget-friendly alternatives to established campgrounds. The terrain in this region features a mix of lakeshores, pine forests, and rolling hills with summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak season. Free camping near Glen Arbor requires proper preparation as facilities are minimal or non-existent.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers excellent bass fishing across multiple lakes. According to one camper, "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."
Hiking trails: The Manistee River Trail system provides scenic views along a 23-mile loop. "I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan. You have the option to do the loop, they allow dispersed camping, and there is plenty to see and do," notes one backpacker.
Swimming spots: Government Landing Campground offers access to warm water swimming, though one visitor cautions, "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable."
Wildlife viewing: Lime Lake provides opportunities to observe local wildlife in a natural setting. Pack binoculars for bird watching and early morning animal sightings during quieter periods.
What campers like
Secluded camping: Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers true solitude according to campers. One reviewer shared, "We pitched our tent, stoked the fire, and didn't see another soul during our entire time there."
Riverside sites: Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping features premium spots along the water. A camper notes, "The spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!"
No-cost camping: Most dispersed areas offer free camping near Glen Arbor during the off-season. At Government Landing, one visitor mentioned, "Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov."
Natural features: The region includes small waterfalls, clear lakes, and river access. A Manistee River visitor recommends, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!"
What you should know
Access challenges: Lime Lake requires appropriate vehicles for entry. One camper advises, "Little tricky to get to but if you have a vehicle good for two tracking you should be fine. We stayed at the 5th spot we seen because it is an active location."
Weather preparation: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even during warmer seasons. One camper at Manistee River reported, "We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night. Hammock was not the best option."
Navigation difficulties: Finding specific camping areas can be challenging without proper directions or GPS. Multiple campers report difficulty locating sites without prior research.
Reservation systems: Some areas require permits or switch to reservation systems during peak seasons. Government Landing operates on a first-come-first-served basis in the off-season but requires reservations during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with easier access for children. Sand Lakes offers varying options as one visitor notes, "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."
Safety considerations: Government Landing Campground offers more developed facilities for families. A camper mentions, "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."
Wildlife awareness: Tick prevention is essential when camping with children. As one Manistee River visitor noted, "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."
Space requirements: Look for sites that accommodate family-sized setups. Manistee River Trail campers report, "Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Small trailers only at select locations. At Government Landing, one camper warns, "At site #33 which is technically not governments landing, but felt it was good information. Camping with a 20ft trailer, It was very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."
Alternative parking: Consider parking RVs at designated areas and hiking to primitive sites. For Sand Lakes, campers note, "This is a park and walk camping spot. From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping."
Off-season access: RV camping becomes more viable during less crowded periods. A Government Landing camper mentioned, "Very spacious and spread out sites. Many sites were full when I came on a crappy weather Thursday night in early September."
