Dispersed camping areas near Northport, Michigan offer rustic experiences in forested settings spanning from the Leelanau Peninsula to surrounding state lands. Most sites lack drinking water, electricity, or modern facilities. Overnight temperatures can drop to the 40s even in summer months, especially near the lakes. Camping permits may be required at certain locations including Lime Lake.
What to do
Fishing small lakes: Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides exceptional bass fishing opportunities across several interconnected small lakes. According to Dan K., "Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody... Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count."
Hiking woodland trails: The Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites trail system connects multiple lakes through wooded terrain. Angelia R. notes, "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."
Horseback riding: The Goose Creek Trail Camp provides dedicated facilities for equestrians with river access. Brianna K. explains, "I camp here with my horse - there are plenty of trails and there is river access with big stairs leading down to the nice footed river - it was my young horses first time being in the water and the stairs made it easier for him."
What campers like
Complete solitude: The region offers true backcountry isolation despite being relatively accessible from populated areas. Maddy T. experienced this firsthand: "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness... I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears."
Swimming opportunities: Several small lakes in the area offer swimming options. Angelia R. states about Lime Lake: "A beautiful spot for a quick lunch and as long as no one is across the way, good for a nice dip."
Car-accessible backcountry: Some sites combine primitive camping with vehicle accessibility. Alyssa A. reports, "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 had our car parked right up next to our site."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: First-time visitors commonly report difficulty locating proper entrances and campsites. Rachael T. advises, "We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible... 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!"
Seasonal popularity fluctuations: Site availability varies throughout the year. While some visitors experience solitude, others encounter crowds, as Gills B. noted: "Too many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure."
Insects and poison ivy: Free camping near Northport requires preparation for local plant hazards. Jade M. warns about Lime Lake: "Be aware of poison ivy. There is a handmade fire ring. It's by water but not too buggy."
Tips for camping with families
Look for lakeside sites: Children enjoy the water access at several locations. Roger V. recommends, "Great spots near lakeside, hiking nearby, quiet, hardly saw anyone."
Bring processed firewood: Many sites have fire rings but require campers to bring their own wood. Deven S. reports, "Me and my dad went camping here... 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!!"
Pack emergency supplies: Cell service can be spotty in dispersed camping areas around Northport. Maddy T. notes, "There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through."
Tips from RVers
Scout for accessible sites: Most dispersed camping near Northport has limitations for larger vehicles. Jade M. advises, "Little tricky to get to but if you have a vehicle good for two tracking you should be fine. We stayed at the 5th spot we seen because it is an active location."
Consider proximity to attractions: Some dispersed camping options provide convenient base camps for regional exploration. Mike W. notes about camping near Lime Lake, "Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."
Research seasonal closures: Access to free camping areas varies by season. Lydia T. mentions that rustic state forest campgrounds typically have "each site has its own fire pit and picnic table" but may operate only during warmer months.
