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Best Dispersed Camping near Leland, MI

17 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Leland, Michigan is concentrated in several primitive backcountry areas within driving distance of town. Lime Lake offers remote sites approximately 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear Dunes, though access requires navigating two-track roads. A camper noted, "little tricky to get to but if you have a vehicle good for two tracking you should be fine." The area features several established spots with handmade fire rings, though permits are required and alcohol is prohibited.

Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides more accessible backcountry camping with both drive-in and walk-in tent sites. The area features multiple lakes, toilets, and free camping with fires allowed. While popular for fishing and hiking, navigation can be challenging. A reviewer mentioned, "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!" The Manistee River Trail offers additional primitive camping opportunities with riverside sites that provide more privacy and scenic views than the north side of the trail system.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Leland, Michigan (4)

    1. Lime Lake

    2 Reviews
    Lake Ann, MI
    20 miles

    "little tricky to get to but if you have a vehicle good for two tracking you shoukd be fine. we stayed at the 5th spot we seen because it is an active location. spots were occupied and a few cars drove"

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

    2. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    29 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."

    3. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    46 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. Goose Creek Trail Camp

    2 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    49 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"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Leland, MI

32 Photos of 4 Leland Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Leland, MI

17 Reviews of 4 Leland 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 Leland

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Leland, Michigan, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. With several options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

Amazing fishing opportunities while free camping near Leland

Scenic hiking trails for dispersed campers

  • The Goose Creek Trail Camp provides access to numerous hiking trails, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding forest and river areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Leland, Michigan?

When dispersed camping near Leland, Michigan, you must follow state forest regulations. At Goose Creek Trail Camp, each site comes with a designated fire pit and picnic table, which must be used for fires. For most Michigan dispersed camping areas, permits are required - particularly in state forest lands. This includes registering at trailheads or obtaining permits online before arrival. Pack out all trash, maintain at least 200 feet distance from water sources, and limit stays to 14 days in one location. Campfires are typically allowed in established fire rings only, and seasonal fire restrictions may apply depending on conditions.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Leland, MI?

For free dispersed camping near Leland, head to Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, which offers secluded sites across multiple lakes within gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness. This area requires a short hike in from the parking lot with a yellow gate marking the trailhead. Permits are required as this is a state park area. Another excellent option is Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, which offers designated sites along scenic river bluffs. While technically dispersed, most sites can accommodate larger groups and are situated with beautiful views, though they can get busy on summer weekends.

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Leland, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Leland, MI is Lime Lake with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Leland, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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