Top Free Dispersed Camping near Ludington, MI

Looking for dispersed camping near Ludington? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ludington, MI (7)

    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    2. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    3 Reviews
    8 Photos
    150 Saves

    Dispersed foot traffic and primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".Plan Your Trip: Dispersed Camping

    Some things to keep in mind when planning where you will be camping are: There is no camping within 200 feet of any body of water, except at designated sites. There is no camping within 400 feet of the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manistee and Au Sable Rivers. Camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to tents, camper trailers and/or tarps) is allowed in the same location for up to fourteen (14) days. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. A permit is NOT required to camp on National Forest System lands outside of designated campgrounds. Motorized vehicles may only be operated on designated roads, trails or areas open to that use. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Government Landing Campground

    4. Government Landing Campground

    3 Reviews
    6 Photos
    114 Saves

    Manistee National Recreation River This camping area is named for Government Island. The 3 campsites are part of the Forest Services' 41 designated dispersed sites along the Upper Manistee River. The main access road along the powerline is a snowmobile trail in the winter. Brochure with map : Manistee River This brochure is set to print on 11 x 17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. To print on 8 1/2 x 11 paper set the print area to "shrink to printable area", this will make the text on the page smaller. Flickr Photo Albums Manistee River

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    • No image available
      • No image available
        • No image available

          7. Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed

          Be the first to review!
          34 Saves

          Dispersed foot traffic and primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".Plan Your Trip: Dispersed Camping

          Some things to keep in mind when planning where you will be camping are: There is no camping within 200 feet of any body of water, except at designated sites. There is no camping within 400 feet of the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manistee and Au Sable Rivers. Camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to tents, camper trailers and/or tarps) is allowed in the same location for up to fourteen (14) days. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. A permit is NOT required to camp on National Forest System lands outside of designated campgrounds. Motorized vehicles may only be operated on designated roads, trails or areas open to that use. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map.

          • Pets
          • Tents

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Ludington

        31 Reviews of 7 Ludington Campgrounds


        • lThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Sawkaw Lake
          May. 15, 2024

          Sawkaw Lake

          Peaceful

          Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around. Might change by Friday.

        • Corey M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Oct. 24, 2022

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          For Forest Dwellers and Lake Lovers

          This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem. Forest service roads will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it. 4WD is recommended if you want to go deep. There are plenty of great spots though for big rigs or for those without 4WD. 15-30 minute drive to Lake Michigan. Local convenience store is only a few miles down the road. Try this place out. You won’t regret it.

        • Alyson M.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
          Oct. 9, 2022

          Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

          Great Campsites!

          Did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Jul. 20, 2022

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          My Go-To Camping spot

          I’ve camped here many times, in summer, fall, and spring. The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy. It can get busy on weekends since many people know about this spot. It is a short drive to the beach and nordhouse dunes which is known for hammock camping on the beach so you have options. The last 2 times I’ve went there was lots of trash at the campsites, which is very upsetting. Please follow “Leave No Trace” ethics so we can keep enjoying this space.

        • Jay D.
          Camper-submitted photo from Sawkaw Lake
          Jun. 10, 2022

          Sawkaw Lake

          Little Half Moon Lake

          Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite. Depending on the spot, there could be some people around, but most the most part, it was pretty tranquil. There are even some hike paths around the area.

        • Connor N.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Dec. 9, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          Nice boondocking spot with access to Lake Michigan!

          Spent a few nights here enjoying Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan. During our stay we relocated from our original site to a bigger site further down the road heading south. Sites ranged from spacious to road-side turnouts with a wide range between. Verizon service was fair. Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves. Will definitely stay again next time we visit Michigan!

        • F
          Camper-submitted photo from Sawkaw Lake
          Oct. 8, 2021

          Sawkaw Lake

          It's quite deep in the forest

          Was planning on staying at Highbank Campground but it was closed. Thankfully had the Dyrt App to see this spot.

          It was a great little dispersed camping spot. Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail.

          Loved it!

        • N
          Camper-submitted photo from Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
          Sep. 23, 2021

          Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

          Nice spot for van camping

          The directions take you to a parking lot. There looks like there are trails off of the parking lot. No signs that say no overnight parking. I'm in a van and this worked great for me. Quiet area and right off the lake.

        • Troy L.
          Camper-submitted photo from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
          Sep. 11, 2021

          Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

          Good for a 2-day camp.

          Great river trail with a decent amount of campsites. We arrived late Friday and most spots were taken. I’d imagine most spots are scoped out earlier in the evening. A lot of people camping/running/hiking. 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. Plenty of firewood to salvage on both sides, albeit some of it was wet. 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. Second night was good. We stayed atop the crest of a hill on the west side down a path. There are designated camp sites with markers but we didn’t opt for making it a point to find one. Any place off the beaten path will do. You will see some spots that people have camped.

        • evi L.
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Sep. 3, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          Dispersed campsites

          Beautiful area with a lot of dispersed campsites, accessible by pretty much any vehicle, although the road is a bit sandy, so maybe take precautions after rain. Large sites, some with more privacy than others, and plenty of ideal hammocking trees. Also, there's a few more sites if you take the road (right side on main rd) across the street from the entrance into this area. I had no problem finding firewood around the area, but there's a general store less than 10 minutes away that sells firewood and basic necessities, cash only during my visit on 03SEP2021 (beer, schnacks, etc.) No toilets or glamping amenities.

        • Cameron
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Aug. 4, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          Awesome spaced out large sites

          Easy access, and the sites are about 50 to 200ft from each other! I love the pine tree+fern forrest. Super sandy area, but it’s nice to walk around barefoot. Haven’t seen any thorn bushes while collecting firewood. There’s no toilets or water so bring a few gallons and be prepared to poop in a hole.

        • Darwin N.
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Jul. 25, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          NF dispersed camping

          First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace".  Other than that I had a great time.

        • Kimberly S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Jun. 22, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          First time dispersed camping

          This was our first time trying out dispersed camping and this location was perfect! We loved being a short drive away from Lake Michigan and plenty of hiking trails. It is in a beautiful wooded area and there were hardly an mosquitos where we were. My only complaint is that the previous visitors at our campsite left trash everywhere and had clearly had fires in at least 4 different areas. The campsite was covered in ash because of it. It’s disappointing to see that some people really just don’t care about taking care of public land.

        • M
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          May. 22, 2021

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          Nice Spot...Easy Access

          Sites are nice and easy to access... no issues with the road coming in... the dispersed camping is free but if you drive and park in the lots for the dunes/beach access it requires a pass or 5$ a day fee

        • Bobbi Jo K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Oct. 13, 2020

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          A Hidden Gem

          This was our first time boondocking in this area. It was beautiful, especially in the fall. Roads are great until you get to the road to camp. There are very large holes and dips, thankfully we found a spot right away before we got in far. Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!). Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!

        • Courtney K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Oct. 10, 2020

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          Beautiful & free rustic camping spots!

          All up and down green Rd. there’s a ton of quiet pull offs, some with fire pits some without. We don’t have 4wd and it was fine (we went in October). And if it’s not what you’re looking for there’s also a more traditional campsite, $27 per night right up the road with facilities. The free spots were perfect for us tho!

        • Shelagh R.
          Camper-submitted photo from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
          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.

        • Deanna A.
          Camper-submitted photo from Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
          Sep. 3, 2020

          Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

          We love it here!

          We vowed to return in a month and driving there now for a long Labor Day weekend. Quiet, though our site was adjacent to a trailhead. The forest is stunning and mesmerizing! 5 min hike to dunes/beach. Never want to camp at a campground again.



        Guide to Ludington

        Camping near Ludington, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

        What to do:

        • Explore the Dunes: The nearby Silver Lake State Park is famous for its stunning sand dunes. One visitor noted, "The dunes were amazing! A short walk from the camping loops, the dunes open to the amazing shore of Lake Michigan."
        • Hit the Beach: At Hoffmaster State Park Campground, you can enjoy a beautiful Lake Michigan beach. A reviewer mentioned, "Family campground with beautiful Lake MI beach."
        • Fishing and Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park, offer great fishing spots and hiking trails. One camper shared, "Great dunes covered in dune grass, beautiful water next to the pier where we can go fishing."

        What campers like:

        • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Platte River Campground said, "Immaculate modern campground. Clean and spacious facilities, helpful staff."
        • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer at Cedar Campground — Ludington State Park mentioned, "The sites were large and spread out with a bear pole, picnic table, and fire ring."
        • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Orchard Beach State Park Campground are great for families. One camper noted, "Great view of Lake Michigan. No beach access, but the campground is quiet, clean, and right on the water with fabulous sunsets."

        What you should know:

        • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A camper at Newaygo State Park Campground mentioned, "Two nights of brain damaging laughter and frivolity by campsite 21 ruined the whole experience."
        • Limited Beach Access: Some campgrounds, like Orchard Beach State Park, no longer have direct beach access due to erosion. A visitor pointed out, "You must travel 4 miles away to Douglas park to use a beach."
        • Site Size and Spacing: Many sites can feel cramped, especially during peak season. A reviewer at Silver Lake State Park Campground said, "Incredibly tight spots making it difficult to back campers into."

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. One camper at Hoffmaster State Park Campground mentioned, "Excellent playground if you have little ones."
        • Plan for Distance: Some campgrounds have bathrooms that are a bit of a walk. A visitor at Orchard Beach State Park noted, "The bathroom is a pretty distant walk so prepare for that."
        • Bring Bug Spray: The wooded areas can have bugs, so it's good to be prepared. A camper at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness advised, "It's wooded so have bug spray."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site dimensions. A reviewer at Cedar Campground — Ludington State Park mentioned, "Check your rig size against the site you are planning on reserving."
        • Be Ready for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads and tight spots. A visitor at Silver Lake State Park Campground said, "The road through the campground is quite narrow so you'll need to take your time."
        • Bring Extra Supplies: Many campgrounds are remote, so stock up before you arrive. A camper at Lake Michigan Recreation Area advised, "Bring enough supplies for your stay unless you don’t mind a 1/2 hour drive to get resupplied."

        Camping near Ludington, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ludington, MI?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ludington, MI is Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road with a 4.9-star rating from 16 reviews.

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

          TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Ludington, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.