Dispersed camping opportunities around Morley, Michigan extend throughout the Huron-Manistee National Forests, where elevation ranges from 700 to 1,100 feet above sea level. These public lands encompass over 978,000 acres of mixed hardwood forest and wetland ecosystems. Winter camping remains available in many areas, though forest roads often become impassable during snow and spring thaw conditions.
What to do
Hiking access: Dispersed camping at Sawkaw Lake connects directly to the North Country Trail. "There are even some hike paths around the area," notes camper Jay D., who found spots around both Sawkaw Lake and Little Half Moon Lake nearby.
Wildlife observation: Early morning and evening hours provide the best opportunities for viewing native wildlife. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, campers should maintain awareness of local wildlife. One camper reported: "We heard a pack of coyotes nearby. Deciding to press on, we shrugged it off hoping this was just a one off. 3 hours later, we hear them again."
Creek exploration: Some dispersed sites feature nearby water access. Degen G. reports at Sand Road: "There was running water in a creek south of Sand Road," providing a natural water source after proper treatment.
What campers like
Lake proximity: Many campers appreciate the waterfront access at certain dispersed sites. At Sawkaw Lake, Tony N. noted, "Not a lot of privacy between sites, but they are very large so you don't feel on top of another and having the lake right there was nice."
Spacious campsites: The dispersed areas typically offer generous camping spaces. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping receives praise for its variable site sizes with Ashley H. commenting, "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!"
Weekday solitude: Midweek camping provides the best opportunity for solitude. At Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed, Linda C. noted, "Road was very quiet midweek," while enjoying a safe pulloff area from the main forest road.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many free camping areas near Morley have challenging access roads. Logan P. warns about Sand Road: "This spot is wonderful, but boy howdy does it live up to its name. If you do not have AWD and good ground clearance, don't even try to get there."
Map accuracy issues: GPS coordinates may not always lead to accessible campsites. At Sand Road, Jolie reports: "The coordinates lead you to a state park if it is off sand road or Russell road it's 30 minutes out for where coordinates are. Struggled to find any primitive camping anywhere nearby."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack standard amenities. Neil's Secret Spot has basic accommodations with the owner noting: "No outhouse yet but town is near. This is just down the road from Leverentz SpR."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection criteria: When camping with children, select sites with natural boundaries. Degen G. recommends Sand Road 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."
Wildlife preparation: Parents should educate children about wildlife encounters before arrival. Joseph C. cautions about Sand Road: "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."
Water access considerations: Sites near water bodies provide recreational opportunities but require supervision. Ashley H. notes that Sand Road offers "some great riverside camping" options suitable for family groups of various sizes.
Tips from RVers
Van camping options: Smaller RVs and campervans have more site options than larger rigs. Noah E. shared about Sand Road: "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."
Clearance requirements: RV drivers should carefully assess vehicle clearance before attempting forest roads. Dennis N. notes about Sand Road: "Free rusty camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
Seasonal timing: Spring access can be particularly challenging for RVs after winter thaw and rain. Forest roads throughout the Manistee National Forest typically firm up by mid-summer, making July through October the most reliable months for RV access to dispersed sites.
