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Best Dispersed Camping near Luther, MI

56 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities surround Luther, Michigan within the Manistee National Forest, with several free sites accessible via forest roads. Neil's Secret Spot and Spruce Road Pulloff provide drive-in tent camping options within a few miles of Luther. The Spruce Road area features pulloffs where campers can safely park, though some visitors note "access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road." Most dispersed sites have no facilities, requiring self-sufficiency.

Several highly-rated dispersed camping areas lie within 30 minutes of Luther. Sawkaw Lake offers lake views with newly installed vault toilets and established fire rings. One camper described it as "beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around." For backpackers, the Manistee River Trail provides numerous dispersed sites with river access. Government Landing Campground operates as free primitive camping during off-season months, offering toilet facilities and river proximity. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with most sites allowing campfires except during dry periods or high fire danger.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Luther, Michigan (11)

    1. Neil's Secret Spot

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

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

    2. Government Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Wellston, MI
    19 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."

    3. Sawkaw Lake

    6 Reviews
    Bitely, MI
    22 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."

    4. Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed

    1 Review
    Baldwin, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    5. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    24 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."

    6. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    17 Reviews
    Free Soil, MI
    36 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."

    7. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF

    7 Reviews
    Ludington, MI
    36 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."

    8. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    10 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    50 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."

    9. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

    8 Reviews
    Whitehall, MI
    48 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."

    10. Lake Michigan Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Free Soil, MI
    36 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Luther, MI

58 Photos of 11 Luther Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Luther, MI

56 Reviews of 11 Luther 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!

  • 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 Luther

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Luther, Michigan, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Scenic River Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping offers a peaceful experience with well-spaced sites, ensuring privacy while enjoying the sounds of nature.
  • Campers can enjoy a mix of hiking and river access, with designated spots that provide stunning views and opportunities for fires at night.
  • Many visitors appreciate the abundance of wildlife and the tranquility of the area, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Luther, Michigan

  • When visiting Government Landing Campground, be prepared for a rustic experience with limited amenities, but enjoy the beautiful riverside views and peaceful surroundings.
  • Arriving early is key, especially during peak seasons, as sites can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends.
  • Bring your own firewood and drinking water, as these amenities are not always available at dispersed sites like Sawkaw Lake.

Hidden Gems for Dispersed Campers

  • The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road is a hidden gem that offers a mix of forest and dune landscapes, perfect for those who love both woods and beaches.
  • This area is known for its spacious sites that provide ample privacy, making it ideal for families or groups looking to enjoy nature together.
  • Campers can easily access nearby Lake Michigan, allowing for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking and exploring the dunes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Luther, MI is Neil's Secret Spot with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Luther, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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