Top Free Dispersed Camping near Maple City, MI

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Maple City, MI (3)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Maple City

12 Reviews of 3 Maple City Campgrounds


  • d
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    May. 26, 2024

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Awesome fishing and great camp sites

    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 we went down to fish and the lake is beautiful clear water and a lot of fish!!

  • Rachael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    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!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    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. 

  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Shelly B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 1, 2020

    Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    MI Backpacking at its Finest!

    Too much to say about this!

    Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side).

    Note; NCT side allows camping anywhere. MRT has specific spots.

    My review describes some of the MRT spots.

  • Josh D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping
    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!

  • Angelia R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    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.

  • Alyssa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites
    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!



Guide to Maple City

Camping near Maple City, Michigan, offers a fantastic escape into nature with a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more modern setup, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This stunning national lakeshore is just a short drive away. Campers love the breathtaking views and hiking trails. One visitor mentioned, “The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water” at D.H. Day Group Campground.
  • Fishing and Boating: The Betsie River Campsite is popular for fishing and has easy access to the river. A camper shared, “This tiny little family-owned campground is one of our favorites... There are many places to put into the river.”
  • Hiking Trails: Many campgrounds, like Platte River Campground, have trails that lead to beautiful spots. One reviewer noted, “There's also a trail that connects the campground to Lake Michigan, about a 1.2-mile hike which was a nice little hike even in the rain.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Traverse City State Park Campground said, “It’s nice to have well-maintained showers to feel fresh after.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have staff that go above and beyond. One camper at Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park mentioned, “Staff was friendly. Campground was quiet and everyone who was around us was super nice and friendly.”
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A review for Leelanau State Park Campground highlighted, “Beautiful location and beautiful views.”

What you should know:

  • Site Privacy: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at D.H. Day Group Campground noted, “Most sites do not have lateral privacy.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups or showers. A camper at Platte River Campground mentioned, “There are some large rigs, but some sites were nice and secluded from others.”
  • Busy Seasons: Campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially in summer. One camper at Betsie River Campsite advised, “I would advise to book a spot early because the bad spots are all in a line on an open lot.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A parent at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, “My son is having a blast making friends and playing at the pool.”
  • Plan for Nature: Bring bug spray and sunscreen. A camper at Leelanau State Park Campground warned, “Be warned, sites along the beach side get quite windy and there are lots of fearless small critters.”
  • Group Camping: Consider reserving multiple sites if camping with a large group. A visitor at Indigo Bluffs RV Park mentioned, “We had a lovely, shaded, level, spacious site.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Traverse City State Park Campground noted, “The spots are very small and you have to park sideways.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort appreciated the “cleanliness, and friendliness” of the facilities.
  • Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or airports. A visitor at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park mentioned, “There is a walk-over bridge, so you don’t have to cross the road! But the park is right next to a busy road and near an airport, so it was a little noisy.”

Camping near Maple City, Michigan, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Maple City, MI is Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Maple City, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.