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Best Dispersed Camping near Ludington, MI

46 Reviews

Manistee National Forest offers free dispersed camping near Ludington, primarily along Green Road near Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness. Sites are generally accessible by standard vehicles, though some areas have sandy or rough roads that may be challenging after rain. Most sites feature established fire rings and provide good spacing between campsites for privacy. No facilities are available—campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash.

Green Road Dispersed camping provides proximity to Lake Michigan beaches and hiking trails in the Nordhouse Dunes area. The campsites are situated in a pine and fern forest with sandy soil. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "sites are about 50 to 200ft from each other" with "plenty of ideal hammocking trees." Several reviews mention issues with previous campers leaving trash, emphasizing the importance of following Leave No Trace principles. Fires are generally permitted at established sites, but seasonal restrictions may apply. The area typically has cell service, and a general store is located within 10 minutes for basic supplies and firewood.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ludington, Michigan (10)

    1. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    17 Reviews
    Free Soil, MI
    11 miles

    "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". "

    "This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem."

    2. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    7 Reviews
    Ludington, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes."

    "These dispersed sites in the national forest are fantastic! Level for tents. Spread out enough that you aren’t on top of neighbors. We couldn’t see anyone from our site. Really great biking paths."

    3. Lake Michigan Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Free Soil, MI
    10 miles

    4. Grant Camping on Morton Road

    Be the first to review!
    Free Soil, MI
    11 miles

    5. Sawkaw Lake

    6 Reviews
    Bitely, MI
    30 miles
    Website

    "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!"

    "Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite."

    6. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

    8 Reviews
    Whitehall, MI
    35 miles

    "Coordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped."

    "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."

    7. Government Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "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."

    "Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond."

    8. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    42 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."

    9. Neil's Secret Spot

    1 Review
    Baldwin, MI
    33 miles
    +1 (352) 480-8860

    "No outhouse yet but town is near. This is just down the road from Leverentz SpR."

    10. Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed

    1 Review
    Baldwin, MI
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Ludington, MI

36 Photos of 10 Ludington Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ludington, MI

46 Reviews of 10 Ludington Campgrounds

  • Darwin N.
    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.

  • Degen G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

    Great area to explore

    Coordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped. Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore. There are also quite a few drive in sites as well for car camping. There was running water in a creek south of Sand Road.

  • Corey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Bobbi Jo K.
    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!

  • Alyson M.
    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.

  • Kimberly S.
    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.

  • Connor N.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    Manistee National Forest dispersed campsite

    This is such a beautiful site, we stayed here a few days two years ago. Green road off of West Forest trail road south of Manistee Michigan. A wilderness area boundaries the campsite to the west, a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes. Many sites were available to us, we chose to utilize our favorite site.

  • 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!

Guide to Ludington

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ludington, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be sure to find the perfect place to set up camp.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Ludington

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, where you can take in breathtaking views and let your dog roam freely in a secluded environment.
  • Spend a day at the nearby Lake Michigan, just a short drive from Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing on the beach.
  • Experience the tranquility of the night sky while stargazing at Sawkaw Lake, where the lack of light pollution allows for stunning views of the stars.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ludington, Michigan

  • Bring a 4WD vehicle if you plan to venture deep into the forests, especially at Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, where forest service roads can be rough but lead to hidden gems.
  • Always practice "Leave No Trace" principles to keep the natural beauty intact, as noted by visitors at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, who have reported issues with trash at campsites.
  • Be prepared for varying levels of accessibility; while some spots at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping are suitable for big rigs, others may be better for smaller vehicles due to tight roads.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Sawkaw Lake

  • This peaceful spot offers beautiful views and ample space for camping, making it a favorite among those seeking tranquility, as highlighted by visitors at Sawkaw Lake.
  • The area features hiking paths that allow for exploration of the surrounding forest, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
  • With its proximity to Little Half Moon Lake, Sawkaw Lake is ideal for those looking to enjoy both water activities and forested landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free dispersed camping options around Ludington for tent campers?

Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping provides free tent camping opportunities near Ludington. While some campers note the coordinates can be tricky (they lead to a parking area), the surrounding forest offers excellent backcountry and primitive camping with numerous spots accessible via hiking trails. Another option is Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, which features beautiful free sites in a wilderness area. This location borders Nordhouse sand dunes to the west and offers a variety of site sizes. Both locations are ideal for tent campers looking for an authentic, no-fee wilderness experience.

Where can I find off-grid dispersed camping near Ludington, MI?

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road offers excellent off-grid camping opportunities near Ludington. Located in the Manistee National Forest, this area features spacious, secluded sites scattered throughout the woods. Forest service roads will take you into the forest with varying accessibility—4WD is recommended for deeper sites, though there are options for vehicles with less clearance. The area provides easy access to Lake Michigan and hiking trails in the Nordhouse Dunes. For a different experience, Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping offers more remote off-grid sites along a scenic trail with natural features like a small waterfall near mile marker 3.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping in the Ludington area?

Dispersed camping in the Ludington area, particularly in Manistee National Forest, follows standard USFS regulations. No permits are required for most dispersed camping, but campers must follow Leave No Trace principles—a common concern noted at Government Landing Campground and similar areas. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Campsites must be at least 200 feet from water sources and 100 feet from trails. Campfires are permitted when fire danger is low, but fire rings should be used where available. Pack out all trash—visitors at Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed sites and other locations often report having to clean up after previous campers.

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