Primitive camping opportunities abound in the northern Michigan forests surrounding Lake Ann. The region features primarily pine and mixed hardwood forest terrain with elevations ranging from 800-950 feet. Rustic camping near Lake Ann, Michigan typically requires self-sufficiency as most sites lack running water, electricity, or developed facilities. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during daytime with nighttime lows in the 50s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers excellent fishing in clear waters. According to visitor Dan K., "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 trails: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area provides interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "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," reports Colin E.
Waterfall viewing: Several small waterfalls can be found within a short hike of camping areas. Josh D. notes, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!"
Horseback riding: Goose Creek Trail Camp provides designated equestrian camping with river access. Brianna K. shares, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer good separation between campers. Shelagh R. notes about Manistee River Trail, "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."
River access: Government Landing Campground provides direct river access for fishing and paddling. Marsha Y. describes her experience as "the most amazing, relaxing, beautiful, peaceful time that I've had in a long time when camping."
Multiple lake options: Several small lakes are accessible within short hiking distances. According to Alyssa A., "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."
Free camping options: Many sites require no fee, particularly during off-season periods. Truly W. notes about Government Landing, "Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding specific camping areas can be difficult due to minimal signage. Rachael T. shares about Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, "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."
Site availability: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. Bruce L. reports, "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."
Tick awareness: Check for ticks regularly when camping in this region, particularly in summer. Josh D. mentions, "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."
Trailer access limitations: Many sites have difficult access for larger vehicles. Brittany D. warns about Government Landing, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing with kids: Children can enjoy successful fishing experiences in the clear lakes. Deven S. shares, "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!!"
Noise considerations: Some areas experience varying noise levels on weekends. Gills and B. report about Sand Lakes, "To many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure."
Walking distance preparation: Many sites require hiking to reach, so pack accordingly with children. Maddy T. notes, "From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping."
Water safety: Lake access points can get deep quickly in some areas. Brittany D. cautions, "River access at bottom of steep hill and gets deep fast."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer considerations: Lime Lake can accommodate smaller trailers and provides lake access. Mike W. reports, "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."
Water planning: No hookups are available, so plan accordingly for water needs. Troy L. advises, "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."
Parking constraints: Limited parking areas mean larger RVs should scout locations in advance. Katana H. shares, "We arrived somewhat late on the first night and had a hard time finding a proper area to camp."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially in spring and fall. Troy L. notes, "We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night."
