Dispersed camping near Glennie, Michigan offers varied terrain with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer days reach the 80s. The area features a mix of dense forest, river valleys, and small lakes with sandy soil conditions that drain quickly after rainfall, making most sites accessible even after wet weather.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: The trail system connecting to the North Country Trail provides excellent day hiking opportunities with elevation changes uncommon in Michigan's lower peninsula. "We hiked five days, four nights. Connects to NCT. Bring toilet paper. Water in stream is probably safe but bring a filter or enough water to last," notes a camper at Huron-Manistee National Forest.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for elk near De Cheau Lake. A visitor reports, "Beautiful lake, blessed by the Elk bugles nearby" while camping at De Cheau Lake Camping.
River activities: The Manistee River provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling. "The dunes along the river seem out of place, and wonderfully so. You could spend so much time here, climbing around, swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the views," shares one camper about their experience in the national forest.
What campers like
Well-maintained trails: Regular trail maintenance makes navigation easier for backpackers and day hikers. "I have dispersed camped here twice now and each time is such a pleasure, the trails are always so maintained, the sites are easy to find and always marked. Definitely one of my favorites!" reports a visitor to Huron-Manistee.
Site privacy: Many dispersed sites offer significant distance between camping areas. "The nearest other campers were not within earshot nor could we see them. Lots of wildlife," notes a backpacker about their experience in the forest.
Family-friendly spaces: Some areas accommodate larger family groups with multiple tents. "The campground itself was very nice...it was our starting point for our family hiking/backpacking/camping trip this year. We had 11 Grandkids with us, and we had 9 backpacking tents," shares a visitor to Cut River Dispersed Campsite.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry at certain locations. "Posted on Southern entrance: Michigan Rec Passport Required," advises a camper about De Cheau Lake Camping.
Navigation challenges: GPS or detailed maps are essential to navigate forest roads and avoid private property. "Use a GPS system or a program to ensure you are not in private property. Have at least 3 sites as possibilities," recommends an experienced camper.
Water filtration: Stream and river water require treatment before consumption. "Water is stream is probably safe but bring a filter or enough water to last. No campgrounds, but there are areas with clearings for camping," advises a backpacker in the national forest.
Limited cell service: Prepare for minimal or no connectivity in most dispersed camping areas. "Cell service was spotty, which was the goal. Lots of wildlife and great views. You need to carry everything out that you carry in," notes a five-day backpacker.
Tips for camping with families
Pack-in activities: Bringing nature-based activities helps keep children engaged. "The children all carried their own tents, sleeping bags, and food for 4 days. The River trail supplied us with our water needs for cooking and drinking, from the Manistee River. It was a fun trip for all," shares a family group leader.
Safety planning: Establish clear boundaries and meeting points when camping with children. "Quiet, spacious sites spaced far apart in a wooded area. Four different loops divided the whole camp into regions. Signage got us to the beach easily," notes a visitor to Huron-Manistee National Forest.
Multiple site options: Having backup locations is crucial when camping with families. "We specifically stayed at the site at the end of Government's Landing on the river. It was amazing, my husband, myself and our two dogs had a wonderful time," shares a camper who found an ideal spot.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles despite rustic conditions. "Feels more remote than it really is. Lots of room for multiple vehicles/sites. Very near a handful of private residences," reports an RV camper about their experience at De Cheau Lake.
Road noise assessment: Proximity to roads varies by site. "Can hear the state route from the site but it was low volume traffic. Didn't see anyone else during the stay," notes a visitor, indicating that even sites near roads can still feel secluded.
