Dispersed camping near Mears, Michigan offers primitive sites throughout the Manistee National Forest. Most sites sit between 700-900 feet elevation with sandy soil conditions typical of Michigan's west coast. Forest service roads can be navigated with standard vehicles during dry conditions, though several areas become significantly more challenging after rainfall when sandy terrain becomes soft and rutted.
What to do
Hiking to Lake Michigan: Access the shores of Lake Michigan via trails near Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road. "Beautiful area with a lot of dispersed campsites... Large sites, some with more privacy than others, and plenty of ideal hammocking trees," notes evi L. The wilderness area offers a short hike to the Nordhouse sand dunes.
Swimming opportunities: Several rustic sites near Mears provide access to swimming areas beyond Lake Michigan. At Government Landing Campground, one camper reported "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable." This site sits on the backwaters of Tippy Dam.
Forest exploration: The national forest surrounding Mears contains extensive trail networks. "There are walking trails, bike trails and ORV trails and routes in close proximity," notes Bruce L. about Government Landing. Similarly, at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, campers can find "Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Most primitive camping areas near Mears offer generous site dimensions. At Sawkaw Lake, reviewers note "Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around. Might change by Friday." Another camper confirmed: "Not a lot of privacy between sites, but they are very large so you don't feel on top of another."
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week visits provide the best opportunities for solitude at most rustic camping locations near Mears. At Green Road Dispersed camping, one visitor found "Years ago I used to hike out to Nordhouse Dunes from the Nurnberg trailhead and it was amazing. That has since been ruined now that the site has become overrun & overcrowded with people... Now when I go, I camp here and hike to the surrounding areas without having to listen to drunken ramblings of 9 other groups directly next to us."
Established facilities: While most areas remain primitive, some sites include basic amenities. Sawkaw Lake features a "Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail." Government Landing provides "a pit toilet available at one cluster of 3 campsites."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Matching vehicle capabilities to site conditions remains essential for rustic camping near Mears. At Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed, "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road." Bullet casings have been reported here, and the area lacks developed camping facilities.
Seasonal variations: Camping conditions change throughout the year, with some sites offering fee-free camping during slower months. Government Landing offers "Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov." Every site typically fills during peak summer months.
Wildlife awareness: Beyond standard wildlife, campers should be prepared for potential predator encounters. At Sand Road, one camper reported: "Once we got a fire lit, and the sunlight started to leave for the night we heard a pack of coyotes nearby... 3 hours later, we hear them again. Only, this time we could tell they were even closer... They were less than 100 yards away from us."
Tips for camping with families
Larger campsites: For family camping near Mears, look for sites with ample space. One camper at Sand Road noted: "Camp here every year! Perfect for big families or even solo camp! Spots big and small plenty to choose from and even some great riverside camping!" Sites throughout the forest vary significantly in size.
Safety precautions: Some primitive areas may not be suitable for children or small pets. A Sand Road camper warned: "Please be aware, when camping here you may be in coyote territory, and they don't seem to like it. So, maybe not a great spot for kids, or smaller pets."
Supply runs: Local convenience stores provide essential supplies within driving distance. Nordhouse Dunes campers noted "there's a general store less than 10 minutes away that sells firewood and basic necessities, cash only during my visit."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many rustic camping areas near Mears present access difficulties for RVs and trailers. At Government Landing Campground, one RVer explained: "Camping with a 20ft trailer, It was very beautiful and peaceful stay. 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."
Clearance requirements: Vehicle ground clearance becomes critical on forest roads. Nordhouse Dunes campers shared: "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!)."
Smaller RV options: Compact RVs fare better on forest roads. A camper at Nordhouse Dunes reported "Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves." Van campers often find success at established pullouts.
