Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides rustic camping near Lake Leelanau, Michigan with multiple lakeside campsites accessible by short hikes from designated parking areas. The area features several interconnected lakes within a 2,800-acre woodland tract maintained by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Water clarity ranges from 10-15 feet visibility in many spots, allowing campers to spot fish from shore or while wading.
What to do
Fishing for bass: Sand Lakes offers exceptional fishing opportunities with clear water visibility. According to one camper, "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" (Dan K.).
Hiking network trails: The area features shaded woodland trails connecting multiple lakes. A visitor noted, "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" (Angelia R.).
Horseback riding: Goose Creek Trail Camp provides dedicated facilities for equestrian campers. As one rider 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" (Brianna K.).
What campers like
Private sites: The camping areas offer significant separation between sites. At Manistee River Trail, "All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night. Spots for a fire and very peaceful! We actually had a spot on the NCT side, the spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!" (Alyson M.).
Complete solitude: Many campers report having entire sections of Sand Lakes Quiet Area to themselves. One visitor described, "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" (Alyssa A.).
Multiple water access points: The region offers numerous lakes and streams for swimming and fishing. A 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" (Mike W.).
What you should know
Navigation challenges: First-time visitors frequently report difficulty finding campsites. One camper noted, "After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground" (Noah E.).
Seasonal popularity: Despite remoteness, summer weekends can become crowded. "To many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure" (Gills an B.).
Varied site regulations: Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping has specific camping rules: "NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots" (Shelly B.).
Tips for camping with families
Pack water treatment supplies: Drinking water sources are limited or nonexistent. Most sites require bringing water or filtering from lakes and streams.
Bring bug protection: Ticks and mosquitoes are common, especially in spring and summer. One visitor warned, "Be aware of poison ivy. There is a handmade fire ring. It's by water but not too buggy" (Jade M.).
Consider access limitations: Many sites require hiking to reach. A camper at Sand Lakes Quiet Area shared, "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" (deven S.).
Tips from RVers
Limited large vehicle access: Most dispersed areas near Lake Leelanau accommodate only smaller vehicles or require parking in designated lots. Goose Creek provides more accessible sites but remains rustic with limited amenities.
Prepare for rustic conditions: Goose Creek Trail Camp offers minimal facilities: "Rustic state forest campground located near trails. Each site has its own fire pit and picnic table" (Lydia T.).
Consider alternate camping styles: For those wanting to experience the area without an RV, one visitor suggested, "We arrived somewhat late on the first night and had a hard time finding a proper area to camp. We eventually popped up a small tent near a hiking trail to avoid getting lost" (Katana H.).
