Dispersed camping opportunities abound throughout Huron-Manistee National Forests in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The forest encompasses over 978,000 acres of public land with elevation changes ranging from 750 to 1,200 feet. Seasonal temperature variations are significant with summer highs reaching 85°F while winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, affecting water availability and trail conditions at backcountry sites.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: The Manistee River Trail loop features notable waterfalls and scenic river views. According to one backpacker at Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping: "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. Waterfalls, river bends, wildlife, this trail has it all."
Fish from lakeside docks: Multiple forest campgrounds offer fishing opportunities from designated piers and lake access points. A camper at Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground noted: "Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc. It has a boat ramp and a fishing pier."
Explore seasonal wine trails: Northern Michigan cider and wine producers operate near some forest campgrounds. As one visitor to Healy Lake mentioned: "We camped here after visiting the Northern Natural Cider and Winery nearby which we highly recommend. The campground itself was large with plenty of sites to choose from, first come first serve."
What campers like
Trail connectivity: The interconnected trail systems allow for extended backpacking trips with multiple camping options. A hiker explained: "Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side). Note; NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots."
Site spacing and privacy: Even at established campgrounds, sites are typically well-separated. At Insta-Launch Campground & Marina, a tent camper observed: "The tent sites are right off the river with docks to fish from and launch your boat from. One of the wonderful things about this campground was that because it is privately owned, it was very reasonably priced."
Fall color viewing: The deciduous forests provide exceptional autumn scenery. One camper at Leverentz Lake shared: "Reviews of the lake and the Fall colors, it really just doesn't get any better than this. There are 2 vault toilet and one water pump. The lake offers a fishing pier."
What you should know
Water source access varies: Access to drinking water depends significantly on location and season. A backpacker on the Manistee River Trail noted: "The east side of the river is more hilly but has an abundance of water spots to fill up. The west side of the river doesn't have any water spots until about the last mile north at a small bridge."
Site occupation patterns: Popular backcountry areas fill quickly on weekends. One camper reported: "Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."
Fee variations: Prices range from free for some dispersed areas to $15+ for established sites. At Healy Lake State Forest Campground, a camper reported: "I think it was something like $13. Bring cash!"
Seasonal tick awareness: Ticks are increasingly prevalent in summer months. A visitor warned: "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!"
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside options for children: Lakes with fishing piers provide safer water access for families. At Marina Insta-Launch Campground, a visitor mentioned: "Nice place for the grandkids to fish. Its quiet here a nice cleaning station lots of 🐟."
Multiple day trip planning: When tent camping near Huron-Manistee National Forests with children, consider shorter hiking distances. One experienced camper suggested: "Best thing to do is camp for 2 nights and take your time. Loved it."
Multi-lake campgrounds: Some state forest campgrounds feature access to both larger and smaller lakes. As noted by one camper: "This is actually one state forest campground split into two units, each on a lake: Big Leverentz and Little Leverentz. There are about 20 campsites here with approximately 3/4 of them on the Big Leverentz side."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most forest service and state forest campgrounds lack electrical connections. Even at developed campgrounds like Crystal Forest, services can be basic: "This campground is the quintessential fish camp. Regulars have their gear here all season long. Sue, the host, is lovely and accommodating. She made us feel very comfortable and checked on us often. Full hook up at each site, and pit toilets if needed."
Space considerations for small trailers: While full-size RVs aren't accommodated at most forest sites, smaller trailers can access certain locations. A Leverentz Lake visitor observed: "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents."
