Primitive camping near Paris, Michigan offers access points throughout the Manistee National Forest with varying terrain and seasonal considerations. Most dispersed sites follow a 14-day stay limit, common in national forests, and require proper waste disposal with pack-in, pack-out practices. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night, requiring appropriate clothing and camping gear for comfort.
What to do
Hike connecting trails: The North Country Trail connects with many dispersed camping areas and provides extensive hiking options. At Sawkaw Lake, one camper noted, "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."
Explore waterways: Multiple water access points enable fishing, paddling, or swimming near campsites. A visitor to Government Landing Campground shared, "Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable."
Wildlife observation: Forested areas provide habitat for diverse wildlife, though requiring proper precautions. One camper reported at Sand Road, "However, once we got a fire lit, and the sunlight started to leave for the night we heard a pack of coyotes nearby. Deciding to press on, we shrugged it off hoping this was just a one off."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Weekday camping typically offers more seclusion than weekends. At Sawkaw Lake, a visitor reported, "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."
River access: Sites with waterfront views receive consistent positive feedback. Along the Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping, a hiker mentioned, "The spots along the MRT side were much more spacious and were on the water!"
Established fire rings: Many primitive sites include existing fire rings, simplifying meal preparation and evening comfort. A visitor at Sawkaw Lake stated, "There are fire rings and lots of wood to collect. Not tons of trash but I cleaned up some left in fire pit."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Deep sand conditions restrict access at some sites. One camper at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping warned, "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."
Reservation systems vary: Some areas transition between reservable and first-come status seasonally. At Government Landing, a visitor explained, "Nice spot by the river. Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov."
Site availability: Popular locations fill quickly, particularly on weekends. A Manistee River Trail camper shared, "We did a 1 night backpacking trip on the MRT/NCT loop and we loved the spot we had. All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night."
Tips for camping with families
Location verification: Some primitive sites can be difficult to locate or may have changed status. At Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed, a camper reported, "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road. No fire ring. Bullet casings present."
Water access considerations: Swimming conditions vary significantly between sites. A visitor to Government Landing noted, "Scenic spot right on the pond/dam backwaters. Very spacious and spread out sites. Many sites were full when I came on a crappy weather Thursday night in early September."
Trail difficulty levels: When backpacking with children, consider terrain challenges. One hiker on Manistee River Trail advised, "The NCT is further from the river and a bit hilly, but the MRT sites are nicer."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed areas accommodate smaller rigs only with limited turnaround space. At Neil's Secret Spot, the owner mentions, "This is my spot. Tents are welcome if you're in a jam. No outhouse yet but town is near."
Access road conditions: Even smaller RVs face challenges on poorly maintained forest roads. A camper at Sand Road shared, "Free rusty camping. You can get RVs in there but will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
Loop configurations: Trailers require careful planning for sites without turn-around areas. A camper at Government Landing cautioned, "At site #33 which is technically not governments landing, but felt it was good information. Camping with a 20ft trailer, It was very difficult site to turn around in with a trailer, would not advise anyone to bring a trailer down unless they are very confident."
