Dispersed camping near Hart, Michigan offers numerous free camping options within Manistee National Forest. Seasonal access varies, with most sites accessible from spring to fall, though winter camping is available for those prepared for Michigan's cold temperatures. The terrain ranges from sandy woodland to riverside locations, each offering distinct primitive camping experiences.
What to do
Lake access: Green Road Dispersed sites provide excellent access to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness. A camper noted: "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 any mosquitos where we were" at Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF.
Hiking opportunities: The North Country Trail passes near several dispersed camping areas. At Sawkaw Lake, one reviewer mentioned: "Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail."
Fishing spots: Government Landing Campground offers direct access to water. According to a visitor: "Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails and routes are in close proximity" at Government Landing Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campsites offer water proximity. A camper at Sawkaw Lake shared: "Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around."
Spacious sites: The dispersed camping areas typically provide room to spread out. One camper at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road observed: "Sites ranged from spacious to road-side turnouts with a wide range between. Verizon service was fair."
Privacy between sites: Many primitive camping spots offer natural separation. A visitor to Green Road Dispersed noted: "These dispersed sites in the national forest are fantastic! Level for tents. Spread out enough that you aren't on top of neighbors. We couldn't see anyone from our site."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many primitive sites require appropriate vehicles. A reviewer at Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed mentioned: "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present. Road was very quiet midweek."
Site availability: Competition for spots increases during peak season. A camper at Government Landing Campground commented: "I was there during September 2019 and was lucky to get a site. Every site was full. I hear it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August."
Facility limitations: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. A visitor to Green Road Dispersed noted: "Down this road, there's ~15 sites, and each of them were gorgeous, some very large and very private."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters should be anticipated. For families seeking primitive camping near Hart, Michigan with younger children, Government Landing offers more developed options. A camper reported: "Nice spot by the river. Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov."
Swimming access: Several sites offer water recreation possibilities. At Lake Michigan Recreation Area, a visitor recommended: "Site 15 is a great spot off the road with a firepit."
Site selection for children: Choose areas with natural boundaries. A camper at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness mentioned: "This 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."
Tips from RVers
Turn-around space: Some areas have limited maneuvering room. A visitor at Government Landing observed: "Camping with a 20ft trailer, it was very beautiful and peaceful stay. 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."
Ground clearance: Many primitive camping roads require appropriate vehicles. An RVer at Nordhouse Dunes noted: "We took the 3rd open space I think. It was close to others but not too close. It is definitely around hunting land so wear bright colors if going during season."
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites better accommodate smaller rigs. A camper reported: "All up and down green Rd. there's a ton of quiet pull offs, some with fire pits some without. We don't have 4wd and it was fine (we went in October)."
