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Best Dispersed Camping near Kalkaska, MI

16 Reviews

The forested lands surrounding Kalkaska, Michigan feature a diverse array of dispersed camping options within state forests and public recreation areas. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, located approximately 15 miles west of Kalkaska, offers secluded tent camping with lakeside sites and hiking trails. The Manistee River Trail provides popular dispersed camping opportunities along a scenic waterway about 30 miles southwest of Kalkaska. Most camping in the region consists of rustic sites with minimal amenities, primarily catering to tent campers seeking natural settings away from developed facilities. State forest campgrounds like Goose Creek Trail Camp provide basic amenities including fire pits and picnic tables while maintaining a wilderness feel.

Navigation and site location present common challenges for first-time visitors to the area's campgrounds. As one camper noted, "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." Many sites require short hikes from parking areas, particularly at Sand Lakes Quiet Area where campers park in a small lot with a yellow gate before walking approximately 10 minutes to reach campsites. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with freezing overnight temperatures possible even in late spring. Insects are prevalent during warmer months, with multiple reviewers mentioning ticks and recommending bug spray. Campsite availability becomes extremely limited during summer weekends, especially at popular locations like Government Landing where "it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August."

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers throughout the region. Fishing opportunities abound, particularly at Sand Lakes where one visitor reported, "Some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count." The Manistee River Trail offers a 23-mile loop connecting with the North Country Trail, with different camping regulations on each section. According to one hiker, "NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots." Privacy between sites varies by location, with Manistee River Trail campers noting that "all spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night." Wildlife viewing, hiking, and water activities complement the camping experience, though visitors should prepare for rustic conditions with limited facilities and occasional navigation challenges.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Kalkaska, Michigan (7)

    1. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    9 miles
    Website

    "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

    This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."

    "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."

    2. Goose Creek Trail Camp

    2 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    $6 - $8 / night

    "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river - it was my young horses first time being in the water and the stairs"

    3. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "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."

    "Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups."

    4. Lime Lake

    1 Review
    Lake Ann, MI
    37 miles

    "Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."

    5. Government Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "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."

    "Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond."

    6. Cut River Dispersed Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Roscommon, NV
    33 miles

    7. Pigeon River State Forest dispersed camping

    Be the first to review!
    Vanderbilt, MI
    43 miles
    Website
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kalkaska, MI

31 Photos of 7 Kalkaska Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kalkaska, MI

16 Reviews of 7 Kalkaska Campgrounds

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Quiet is right!

    Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

    This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.

    From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.

    I’d love to come again.

  • Josh D.
    Jul. 22, 2020

    Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    Great trail

    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.

    Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!

  • Alyssa A.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • Shelagh R.
    Sep. 16, 2020

    Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful sites and pleasant hiking

    Although this is listed as "dispersed" camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far. No matter where you end up setting up camp, you're in for a beautiful and gentle hike.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2021

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Directions were unclear

    After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground.

  • Rachael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • Colin E.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    Breathtaking and Challenging

    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. Best thing to do is camp for 2 nights and take your time. Loved it.

  • Angelia R.
    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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    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. 

Guide to Kalkaska

Primitive camping near Kalkaska, Michigan encompasses over 1,000 acres of public land within state forests and recreation areas. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer high temperatures averaging 75-80°F while winter lows can drop below 10°F. Most dispersed camping areas remain ungroomed with minimal maintenance, requiring campers to pack supplies in and waste out.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Lime Lake, located about 35 miles west of Kalkaska, visitors can enjoy both shore and boat fishing. "The campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better," notes camper Mike W.

Waterfall exploration: The Manistee River Trail features several small waterfalls that provide scenic stopping points. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" advises Josh D., who camped along the Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area.

Horseback riding: Equestrians can access dedicated trails at Goose Creek Trail Camp, which features river access points designed for horses. "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river," reports Brianna K., noting the stairs helped her young horse navigate water entry.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the spacious layout and good distance between sites. "All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night," explains Alyson M. about her experience at Manistee River Trail.

Loop trail options: The Manistee River Trail connects with North Country Trail to form a popular 23-mile loop. "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," shares Colin E. about his experience at Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping.

Off-season accessibility: Government Landing Campground offers free camping during off-season periods. "Nice spot by the river. Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov," reports Truly W., highlighting the cost-saving opportunity for flexible campers.

What you should know

Site location challenges: Several camping areas near Kalkaska lack clear signage and may require additional research. "After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground," explains Noah E. about his attempt to locate Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites.

Water filtration needs: Most primitive sites require campers to filter water from nearby lakes and streams. "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," notes Troy L. about water availability along the loop trail.

Different camping regulations: Rules vary across connected trail systems. "NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots," clarifies Shelly B., highlighting important regulatory differences within the same recreation area.

Tips for camping with families

Best swimming locations: Look for gradual entry points at lakes rather than rivers for safer swimming with children. "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," recommends Angelia R. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites.

Bug prevention: Ticks are common in warmer months throughout the Kalkaska region. "We avoided the trails. I didn't find many clear areas with safe water to swim in which was disappointing but I will definitely be going back!" shares Katana H., mentioning tick concerns from her Sand Lakes experience.

Weekend crowding: Plan mid-week visits when camping with children to secure preferred sites. "I hear it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August," cautions Bruce L. about site availability at Government Landing.

Tips from RVers

Site access limitations: Many dispersed areas have narrow, unpaved access roads unsuitable for large trailers. "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," warns Brittany D. about site #33 near Government Landing Campground.

Smaller trailers only: Sites that accommodate small trailers typically require skilled maneuvering and preparation. "Each site has its own fire pit and picnic table," notes Lydia T. about the rustic accommodations at Goose Creek Trail Camp, which can accommodate smaller camping units but not large RVs.

Weather preparation: Temperature variations require RVers to prepare for potentially freezing conditions even in late spring. "We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night," reports Troy L. about his camping experience along the Manistee River Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Kalkaska County?

Dispersed camping in Kalkaska County follows Michigan state forest regulations. At Government Landing Campground, camping is permitted at designated sites, with some areas having challenging access for trailers. Some dispersed areas like Pigeon River State Forest dispersed camping require permits for overnight stays. General rules include: camp at least 200 feet from water sources, practice Leave No Trace principles, limit stays to 14 days within a 30-day period, use existing fire rings, and completely extinguish fires before leaving. Many areas prohibit camping within one mile of established campgrounds. Check with the local DNR office for the most current regulations.

Where are the free dispersed camping areas in Kalkaska, Michigan?

Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers beautiful free camping in northern Michigan wilderness. You'll need to park in a small lot with a yellow gate and walk about 10 minutes to reach the camping area, where you'll find secluded sites near lakes with excellent fishing opportunities. Another option is Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, which features designated sites along the trail, many able to accommodate larger groups. The sites along the bluffs offer stunning views but may be farther from water sources. Both areas provide primitive camping experiences in beautiful natural settings.

Are there any public shower facilities near Kalkaska dispersed camping sites?

Most dispersed camping areas in Kalkaska don't offer shower facilities on-site. Goose Creek Trail Camp is a rustic state forest campground near trails with basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables, but no showers. For showering options, you'll need to visit nearby developed campgrounds, local state parks with day-use facilities, or travel into Kalkaska town where some gas stations offer paid shower services. Planning ahead is essential - bring solar shower bags or washcloths for primitive bathing, or schedule periodic visits to developed facilities during longer stays.

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