Best Dispersed Camping near Harrietta, MI
The Manistee National Forest surrounding Harrietta offers several free dispersed camping options. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping provides secluded tent sites accessible primarily by hiking in, with campers noting that "spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night." The east side follows the river with more spacious waterfront sites, while the west side offers hillier terrain. Fires are permitted at established rings, but no facilities are available.
Several drive-in primitive sites exist within 30 minutes of Harrietta. Government Landing near Brethren allows camping along backwaters of Tippy Dam with vault toilets available. Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides backcountry sites requiring short hikes from parking areas. A visitor noted "we found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it" though others mentioned "directions were unclear" for finding designated sites. Additional options include Spruce Road Pulloff and Green Road dispersed areas, both offering free camping with minimal amenities. All locations permit pets and campfires, though most lack drinking water or toilet facilities.