Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers free camping near Kingsley, Michigan on state forest land about 15 miles from downtown Traverse City. The area encompasses approximately 2,800 acres of pine and hardwood forest surrounding several small lakes. Navigation can be challenging with unmarked two-track roads and trails connecting the camping areas, requiring a Michigan Recreation Passport for vehicle entry.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sand Lakes features clear lakes with healthy fish populations. According to one camper at Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites: "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."
Hiking exploration: The area contains multiple interconnected trails ranging from short lake loops to longer forest routes. A visitor noted: "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."
Water activities: Swimming is available at several access points, though water clarity varies seasonally. At Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, backpackers enjoy riverside recreation: "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)."
What campers like
Seclusion and quiet: Many dispersed sites offer significant privacy from other campers. A visitor to Sand Lakes Quiet Area shared: "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This is a park and walk camping spot."
Multiple camping styles: Options range from drive-up sites to hike-in backcountry camping. At Government Landing Campground, "Nice spot by the river. Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov."
Wildlife viewing: The undeveloped natural setting supports diverse animal populations. One camper at Lime Lake reported: "The campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."
What you should know
Water sources: Plan carefully for drinking water access. A Manistee River Trail camper advised: "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."
Navigation challenges: First-time visitors often struggle with finding campsites. One Sand Lakes visitor warned: "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."
Seasonal conditions: The area can experience freezing temperatures into late spring. A backpacker noted: "We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night. Hammock was not the best option but always made for a good story to tell your friends."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with easy water access for children. A camper at Goose Creek Trail Camp shared: "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 made it easier for him."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage to avoid attracting animals. At Sand Lakes Quiet 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."
Bug protection: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent in warmer months. One visitor cautioned: "Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of tics though so 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!"
Tips for RVers
Access limitations: Many free camping areas near Kingsley have rough access roads unsuitable for larger rigs. At Neil's Secret Spot, a local advised: "This is my spot. Tents are welcome if you're in a jam. No outhouse yet but town is near."
Site positioning: Government Landing Campground visitors note: "Sites are large with fantastic views. Walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails a d routes are in close proximity." However, another camper warned about trailer access: "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."
