Rustic camping near Onekama, Michigan offers numerous secluded sites within the Manistee National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 580-800 feet with sandy, well-draining soil that creates ideal tent platforms in most seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions requiring warmer sleeping bags.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Government Landing Campground provides direct access to prime fishing spots along backwaters. According to one camper, "You have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve. Scenic spot right on the pond/dam backwaters. Very spacious and spread out sites."
Swimming spots: Lime Lake offers clear water swimming within a short distance from camping areas. A visitor noted, "The campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes."
Hiking trails: The Manistee River Trail system provides multiple loop options with water features. A hiker shared, "I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan. You have the option to do the loop, they allow dispersed camping, and there is plenty to see and do. Waterfalls, river bends, wildlife, this trail has it all."
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers multiple lakes with excellent fishing opportunities. One camper reported, "Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody. Fires were allowed ample firewood available for processing multiple lakes great hiking. Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count."
Spacious sites: Green Road Dispersed sites in Manistee National Forest provide ample room between campers. A reviewer noted, "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."
Star viewing: Open clearings at many sites offer exceptional night sky viewing. At Neil's Secret Spot, a camper mentioned it's "Ghost Town camping at its finest. Tents are welcome if you're in a jam. No outhouse yet but town is near."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness can be challenging. As one camper stated, "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!)."
Seasonal considerations: Many sites fill quickly during summer weekends. A visitor to Green Road noted, "we went in mid september only stayed in this spot for a night. we took the 3rd open space i think. it was close to others but not too close. it is definitely around hunting land so wear bright colors if going during season."
Water access: Campers must pack in all water. At Sawkaw Lake, a camper reported, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with established clearings for kids to play. At Sawkaw Lake, "There are signs on the sites saying permit required, but no info for that purpose. No one else had them so I stayed. May be ramping up to making it a paid site, toilet is nice. Lake has boat access."
Wildlife education: The area offers excellent opportunities to teach children about local ecosystems. A Government Landing visitor mentioned, "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable."
Trip planning: Weekdays offer significantly better site availability for families. According to a Sand Lakes visitor, "To many people and yelling kids but breath taking for sure."
Tips from RVers
Trailer limitations: Most primitive sites near Onekama have access limitations for larger rigs. At Government Landing Campground, one RVer advised, "At site #33 which is technically not governments landing, but felt it was good information. 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 considerations: Many forest roads have low-hanging branches and uneven surfaces. A Nordhouse Dunes camper shared, "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."
Parking strategy: Scout potential sites without your trailer first when possible. One camper noted, "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."
