Top Free Dispersed Camping near Johannesburg, MI

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Johannesburg, look no further. Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Johannesburg, MI (5)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Johannesburg

16 Reviews of 5 Johannesburg Campgrounds


  • d
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    May. 26, 2024

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Awesome fishing and great camp sites

    Me and my dad went camping here rode our motorcycles into the parking area and had a nice little hike to the camp ground! Very nice camp sites once we got set up we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!

  • Rachael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Beautiful but difficult to find!

    We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer. You park in this small lot with a yellow gate that is in-front of the trail and then walk down for about 10 min until you see a smaller trail to left follow that down and you will see the campsites!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    Mar. 26, 2023

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Amazing area

    Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody. Fires were allowed ample firewood available for processing multiple lakes great hiking. 

    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.

    Beautiful nature area I loved hiking in and hiking around the various lakes seeing what the area had to offer. One of the best times I’ve ever had camping. Great company also helps. 

  • Jessica D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Jul. 13, 2022

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Backcountry camping experience

    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. Defiantly one of my favorites! and this isn’t far from the sleeping dunes national lakeshore or the empire bluff trail which is a must!

  • Angelia R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Hidden Gem

    Though this area is usually busy, there is plenty of trail to explore here. We found a quaint opening with gorgeous water where the colors complimented each other. A beautiful spot for a quick lunch and as long as no one is across the way, good for a nice dip. Set up a tent and camp at one of the rustic campsites. There are options to drive in and camp. Campsites can be pretty buggy so bring your screens, hats and spray! Awesome backcountry camping spot in a populated area.

  • Alyssa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Best backcountry camping in Grand Traverse area

    We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it. We pitched our tent, stoked the fire, and didn't see another soul during our entire time there. We had our car parked right up next to our site. We explored a bit walking around on the foot traffic trails, which is beautifully wooded and shaded. Didn't explore too much more of the area, but hopefully more reviews will tell of others' experiences here in this beautiful area. It's all backcountry, but it was perfect for the evening-- complete removal from the city!

  • Megan C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Aug. 9, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Great for backpacking

    Hiked five days, four nights. Connects to NCT. Bring toilet paper. 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. The nearest other campers were not within earshot nor could we see them. Lots of wildlife.

  • Megan C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Aug. 9, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Great for Backpacking!

    We walked this trail for 5 days and 4 nights. Cell service was spotty, which was the goal. Lots of wildlife and great views. You need to carry everything out that you carry in. Bring a garden trowel and toilet paper. There are streams with decent drinking water but I would recommend a filter anyways. Connects to the north country trail. We parked at seton valley campground and paid $9 for Peking.

  • Rachael M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Aug. 5, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Beautiful well-maintained campground near the Lake Michigan shire.

    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. Staff were friendly and helpful. Flushing toilets in Orchid loop where we were. No showers.

  • Maggie M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Aug. 4, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    We weren’t planning to camp but...

    but we were blown away! 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. We keep our Jeep ready for camping at any moment and places like this are why we do it. We just had to stay, and I am so excited to go back in the fall. I know this says no pets but we were able to bring our dog and saw many other dogs enjoying the park as well!

  • Brenda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Jul. 21, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Manistee River trail is absolutely gorgeous.

    Thw 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. 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.

  • Agapes D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    Jun. 12, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Beautiful but busy-May 2018

    this is a vast area in which there are many campground sites with some opportunities for dispersed camping. Use a GPS system or a program to ensure you are not in private property. Have at least 3 sites as possibilities. We specifically stayed at the site at the end of Goverment’s Landing on the river. It was amazing, my husband, myself and our two dogs had a wonderful time. We hiked al through the forest, tried lots of cool gear and discovered a new love for camping and nature. This was 4 weeks ago, we have since beeen to Wisconsin and in 2 weeks we will head to Iowa for more camping! Get out there!

  • Anna C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Huron-Manistee National Forest
    May. 14, 2017

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Ranger Review: Leatherman Surge at the Huron-Manistee National Forest Backcountry

    Campground Review:

    One of my favorite things to do in the Huron-Manistee National Forest is to spend the weekend backpacking the ~20 mile loop up the North County Trail and back down the Manistee River Trail. I love this loop trail because you can hike in and out without having to backtrack or coordinate a ride back to your parked car.

    This forest area is unique because it offers large changes in elevation that you do not typically get in Michigan, especially not in the lower peninsula. There's the perfect mix along the trail of designated and undesignated-dispersed campsites and I have yet to encounter a spot that didn't seem perfect.

    As the trail both runs above and along the Manistee river with each mile, you have ample opportunity to camp both ridge-side and river-side. Do what I did and spend one night at the riverbank and one on a hilltop and you'll have the best of both worlds. The only possible con I encountered along the way was that a few single-track roads run through the forest area and you can occasionally hear ATV/4-wheeler traffic at certain parts, but it always subsides by dark.

    ............................

    Gear Review:

    As a Dyrt Ranger, I also get products to test and review in the field. For this trek, I brought with me the Leatherman Surge. I must admit, I was a little overwhelmed at first by the capacity of this device to do just about anything and nervous I would spend more time fiddling for the correct tool than actually using it. Those fears, however, quickly dissolved away and I was wielding this tool like a pro in no time. The design and features of the Surge are incredibly intuitive and easily mastered. The top 2 things I love about this tool specifically in the camping setting include:

    1. It's durable. On those days where my pack seems double its usual size, I know I can cram my bag full and not worry about my Surge bending or breaking.
    2. It packs a punch. And a kick. And a jab. From opening a fresh bottle of beer to whittling extra stakes for wind tie downs, this tool does it all. I no longer have to worry about bringing a pocket knife, scissors, bottle opener or pliers. I love how leatherman products enable me to economize my pack weight and space without having to sacrifice on versatility.


Guide to Johannesburg

Camping near Johannesburg, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore the beaches: Many campers love the sandy shores and swimming areas. At Burt Lake State Park Campground, one visitor said, "There is a fabulous beach with a big swimming area." This makes it a great spot for families with kids.
  • Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the area. A reviewer at Young State Park Campground mentioned, "The beach is long and sandy and there are lots of hiking and biking trails," making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and boating: Many lakes in the region are great for fishing. One camper at Otsego Lake State Park Campground noted, "Otsego Lake is a pretty big lake and there is a beach area," ideal for those who enjoy water activities.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground said, "Bath house facilities were very clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Privacy and space: Many campgrounds offer decent spacing between sites. A reviewer at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites were nice and level and reasonably large," making it a comfortable experience.
  • Friendly atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One camper at Young State Park Campground shared, "Very friendly staff and clean park," highlighting the community feel.

What you should know

  • Road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can be noisy. A visitor at Otsego Lake State Park Campground noted, "A lot of the sites back up to the busy road and you can hear road traffic noise all day and night."
  • Site proximity: Many sites can be close together, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "When the campground is full, you are quite close to your neighbors."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive facilities. A reviewer at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground pointed out, "There are kayak rentals, a boat launch, and activities that the host organizes," but noted the rustic nature of the campground.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and swimming areas. A camper at Burt Lake State Park Campground said, "Has a beautiful sand beach with a shallower swim area for younger kids."
  • Plan for activities: Bring bikes for the trails. A visitor at Young State Park Campground mentioned, "There are lots of hiking and biking trails," which can keep kids entertained.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A camper at Petoskey State Park Campground noted, "Nice bathroom facilities," which can be a relief when traveling with kids.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some sites can be tight for larger RVs. A reviewer at North Higgins Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is very close to the main road and you can hear the traffic."
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Hartwick Pines State Park Campground appreciated the "large sites and most with plenty of trees surrounding the sites."
  • Be mindful of the weather: Some campgrounds can get muddy after rain. A visitor at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground noted, "The campground is rustic with outhouses and hand pump for water," so prepare accordingly.

Camping near Johannesburg, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Johannesburg, MI?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Johannesburg, MI is Huron-Manistee National Forest with a 5-star rating from 9 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Johannesburg, MI?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Johannesburg, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.