Best Dispersed Camping near Mears, MI
Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Mears, Michigan, with several free primitive sites available in the surrounding national forest lands. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road offers spacious, well-separated campsites within a pine and fern forest setting. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping provides both drive-in and hike-in options for backcountry camping enthusiasts. Sawkaw Lake features lakeside sites with vault toilets and access to hiking trails. These areas typically have established fire rings but limited or no facilities.
Vehicle access varies significantly between sites. According to reviews, Sand Road "lives up to its name" and requires AWD or 4WD vehicles with good ground clearance. Green Road in Nordhouse Dunes has sandy sections that can be challenging after rain, though most sites remain accessible with standard 2WD vehicles. Several campers noted that forest service roads "will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it." No drinking water is available at these primitive sites; campers must pack in all necessary water supplies.
Wildlife encounters are common in these areas. Coyotes have been reported at Sand Road sites, particularly after dark. Strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles is essential, as multiple visitors have reported finding trash left by previous campers. A local convenience store located approximately 10 minutes from Nordhouse Dunes sells firewood and basic supplies. Most sites are within a 15-30 minute drive of Lake Michigan beaches and recreation areas. Weekends often see higher occupancy rates, especially during summer months. Midweek visits provide better opportunities for solitude and site selection.
