Top Free Dispersed Camping near Mears, MI
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Mears, MI (7)
1. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
16 Reviews•58 Photos•512 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
2. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
4 Reviews•5 Photos•192 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
3. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
3 Reviews•8 Photos•150 SavesDispersed foot traffic and primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".Plan Your Trip: Dispersed Camping
Some things to keep in mind when planning where you will be camping are: There is no camping within 200 feet of any body of water, except at designated sites. There is no camping within 400 feet of the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manistee and Au Sable Rivers. Camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to tents, camper trailers and/or tarps) is allowed in the same location for up to fourteen (14) days. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. A permit is NOT required to camp on National Forest System lands outside of designated campgrounds. Motorized vehicles may only be operated on designated roads, trails or areas open to that use. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
4. Government Landing Campground
3 Reviews•6 Photos•114 SavesManistee National Recreation River This camping area is named for Government Island. The 3 campsites are part of the Forest Services' 41 designated dispersed sites along the Upper Manistee River. The main access road along the powerline is a snowmobile trail in the winter. Brochure with map : Manistee River This brochure is set to print on 11 x 17 paper, landscape (wide) orientation. To print on 8 1/2 x 11 paper set the print area to "shrink to printable area", this will make the text on the page smaller. Flickr Photo Albums Manistee River
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
7. Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed
Be the first to review!•34 SavesDispersed foot traffic and primitive tent camping within the Forests is allowed almost anywhere, unless otherwise posted closed and/or "No Camping".Plan Your Trip: Dispersed Camping
Some things to keep in mind when planning where you will be camping are: There is no camping within 200 feet of any body of water, except at designated sites. There is no camping within 400 feet of the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. Camping is only allowed at designated sites within the river corridors for the designated Wild and Scenic sections of the Pere Marquette, Pine, Manistee and Au Sable Rivers. Camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to tents, camper trailers and/or tarps) is allowed in the same location for up to fourteen (14) days. After sixteen (16) days the camp and equipment MUST be moved off of Forest Service System lands. A permit is NOT required to camp on National Forest System lands outside of designated campgrounds. Motorized vehicles may only be operated on designated roads, trails or areas open to that use. To find what roads and trails are open to a particular use, visitors should obtain a Motor Vehicle Use Map.
- Pets
- Tents
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Mears
26 Reviews of 7 Mears Campgrounds
William A.
Traveler
Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Great place
Super close to manistee beach, came in on the weekend mid September, almost all the camp spots were taken. Forest was super eerie but beautiful.
- AAmber R.Traveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Breathtaking
Absolutely one of the most beautiful sites that I have seen yet. Secluded enough for my dog to roam. Large open site surrounded by trees. I have a promaster and made it through the rough sand road.
Dmario
Scout
Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
Site 2
Beautiful scenery
- llori T.Traveler
Sawkaw Lake
Peaceful
Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around. Might change by Friday.
- HHunter G.Traveler
Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Beautiful
Take green road toward cooper creek road and find an empty spot! Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road.
- Sara W.
GuideGreen Road Dispersed - Manistee NF
Great dry camping
Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city.
- AAshley H.Traveler
Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
Perfect
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!
Corey M.GuideNordhouse 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.
Alyson M.
LegendNordhouse 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.
Jay D.ScoutSawkaw Lake
Little Half Moon Lake
Found several spots around Sawkaw Lake, to include Little Half Moon Lake which is right next to it. Nice and quite. Depending on the spot, there could be some people around, but most the most part, it was pretty tranquil. There are even some hike paths around the area.
Jeff D.ScoutNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
The dunes were amazing!
Next time I'm coming back to hammock camp. Place is awesome. Not much bugs.
Connor N.
RangerNordhouse 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!
- FFionaTraveler
Sawkaw Lake
It's quite deep in the forest
Was planning on staying at Highbank Campground but it was closed. Thankfully had the Dyrt App to see this spot.
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!
- NNoah E.Legend
Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
Nice spot for van camping
The directions take you to a parking lot. 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.
evi L.TravelerNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Dispersed campsites
Beautiful area with a lot of dispersed campsites, accessible by pretty much any vehicle, although the road is a bit sandy, so maybe take precautions after rain. Large sites, some with more privacy than others, and plenty of ideal hammocking trees. Also, there's a few more sites if you take the road (right side on main rd) across the street from the entrance into this area. I had no problem finding firewood around the area, but there's a general store less than 10 minutes away that sells firewood and basic necessities, cash only during my visit on 03SEP2021 (beer, schnacks, etc.) No toilets or glamping amenities.
- Drew M.Scout
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Quite
A relaxing getaway from the bustling city...
CameronGuideNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Awesome spaced out large sites
Easy access, and the sites are about 50 to 200ft from each other! I love the pine tree+fern forrest. Super sandy area, but it’s nice to walk around barefoot. Haven’t seen any thorn bushes while collecting firewood. There’s no toilets or water so bring a few gallons and be prepared to poop in a hole.
Darwin N.GuideNordhouse 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.
- Kimberly S.Guide
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.
- MMarinoTraveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Nice Spot...Easy Access
Sites are nice and easy to access... no issues with the road coming in... the dispersed camping is free but if you drive and park in the lots for the dunes/beach access it requires a pass or 5$ a day fee
Bobbi Jo K.TravelerNordhouse 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!
Courtney K.ScoutNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Beautiful & free rustic camping spots!
All up and down green Rd. there’s a ton of quiet pull offs, some with fire pits some without. We don’t have 4wd and it was fine (we went in October). And if it’s not what you’re looking for there’s also a more traditional campsite, $27 per night right up the road with facilities. The free spots were perfect for us tho!
Dennis N.ScoutSand Road Primitive Rustic Camping
Rustic camping
Free rusty camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd.
- Deanna A.Traveler
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
We love it here!
We vowed to return in a month and driving there now for a long Labor Day weekend. Quiet, though our site was adjacent to a trailhead. The forest is stunning and mesmerizing! 5 min hike to dunes/beach. Never want to camp at a campground again.
- Kate K.Legend
Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Best Dispersed Camping Around!
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 carrying too much stuff, leaving too much garbage, and taking too much of the beautiful scenery for granted. 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. The last time we camped we didn’t see another person all weekend. That is my kind of escape! Highly recommended if you’re up for adventure, have 4 wheel drive, and are looking to escape the masses.
Andrew G.RangerNordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road
Free rustic camping near Lake Michigan
There are plenty of really rustic pull-offs north and south of those coordinates on Green Rd. There are actually quite a few that are harder to find or even get a vehicle to without 4WD, but most of it is easily accessible in a 2WD vehicle. There are a LOT of ORVers so be prepared for people zooming up and down the road with super loud engines. Other than that, free is free.
Guide to Mears
Camping near Mears, Michigan, offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Hiking and biking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "The surrounding area is beautiful with hiking, biking, kayaking, etc." at Cedar Campground — Ludington State Park.
- Beach access: Many campgrounds, like Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park, offer easy access to stunning beaches. A reviewer said, "Beautiful campground right on Lake Michigan. Clean facilities. Beach access."
- Fishing: Enjoy fishing in nearby lakes. One visitor at Lake Michigan Recreation Area shared, "The sites were large and spread out with a bear pole, picnic table, and fire ring with a grate."
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Silver Lake State Park Campground noted, "Nice large site with clean restrooms and friendly staff."
- Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Muskegon County Pioneer County Park said, "So much room for all size campers, bathrooms and showers were clean and spacious."
- Natural beauty: The scenic views and diverse landscapes are a big hit. One visitor at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness remarked, "The dunes are a quick walk and well worth it."
What you should know:
- Crowded during peak season: Some campgrounds can get busy. A reviewer at Cedar Campground — Ludington State Park mentioned, "Although this campground is a little crowded and busy, the park itself makes up for it."
- Limited privacy: Sites can be close together. A camper at Pines Campground — Ludington State Park noted, "The sites were shoulder-to-shoulder with no privacy."
- No cell service in some areas: Be prepared to disconnect. A visitor at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness warned, "There is no cell service or wifi, so plan ahead."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Lake Michigan Recreation Area said, "Camp activities for kids, all around great campgrounds."
- Bring outdoor games: Keep the kids entertained with games. A reviewer at Muskegon County Pioneer County Park mentioned, "The kids love the playground."
- Plan for meals: Make sure to bring enough food and snacks. A camper at Lake Michigan Campground at Muskegon State Park advised, "Bring enough supplies for your stay unless you don’t mind a 1/2 hour drive to get resupplied."
Tips from RVers:
- Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Silver Lake State Park Campground said, "Check your rig size against the site you are planning on reserving."
- Be cautious of tight roads: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A camper at South Channel Campground noted, "The grounds don’t seem manicured at all and I didn’t actually see a ranger drive through our entire stay."
- Bring extension cords: If you need power, be prepared. A visitor at Silver Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Ended up having to buy a $75 extension cord so we could stay here."
Camping near Mears, Michigan, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mears, MI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mears, MI is Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road with a 4.9-star rating from 16 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mears, MI?
TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Mears, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.