Best Dispersed Camping near Prudenville, MI

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Prudenville, MI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Michigan camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Prudenville, MI. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Prudenville, Michigan (4)

    2. Huron-Manistee National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Brethren, MI
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    $10 - $14 / night

    "The children all carried their own tents , sleeping bags, and food for 4 days. The River trail supplied us with our water needs for cooking and drinking, from the Manistee River."

    "this is a vast area in which there are many campground sites with some opportunities for dispersed camping. Use a GPS system or a program to ensure you are not in private property."

    3. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    45 miles
    Website

    "Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

    This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."

    "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."

    4. Goose Creek Trail Camp

    2 Reviews
    Frederic, MI
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (989) 348-6371

    $6 - $8 / night

    "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"

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Prudenville, MI

21 Photos of 4 Prudenville Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Prudenville, MI

17 Reviews of 4 Prudenville Campgrounds


  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Quiet is right!

    Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

    This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.

    From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.

    I’d love to come again.

  • Brenda M.
    Jul. 21, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Manistee River trail is absolutely gorgeous.

    Thw campground itself was very nice...it was our starting point for our family hiking/backpacking/camping trip this year. We had 11 Grandkids with us, and we had 9 backpacking tents. The children all carried their own tents , sleeping bags, and food for 4 days. The River trail supplied us with our water needs for cooking and drinking, from the Manistee River. It was a fun trip for all.

  • Agapes D.
    Jun. 12, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Beautiful but busy-May 2018

    this is a vast area in which there are many campground sites with some opportunities for dispersed camping. Use a GPS system or a program to ensure you are not in private property. Have at least 3 sites as possibilities. We specifically stayed at the site at the end of Goverment’s Landing on the river. It was amazing, my husband, myself and our two dogs had a wonderful time. We hiked al through the forest, tried lots of cool gear and discovered a new love for camping and nature. This was 4 weeks ago, we have since beeen to Wisconsin and in 2 weeks we will head to Iowa for more camping! Get out there!

  • Alyssa A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Best backcountry camping in Grand Traverse area

    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 pitched our tent, stoked the fire, and didn't see another soul during our entire time there. We had our car parked right up next to our site. We explored a bit walking around on the foot traffic trails, which is beautifully wooded and shaded. Didn't explore too much more of the area, but hopefully more reviews will tell of others' experiences here in this beautiful area. It's all backcountry, but it was perfect for the evening-- complete removal from the city!

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    Great for Backpacking!

    We walked this trail for 5 days and 4 nights. Cell service was spotty, which was the goal. Lots of wildlife and great views. You need to carry everything out that you carry in. Bring a garden trowel and toilet paper. There are streams with decent drinking water but I would recommend a filter anyways. Connects to the north country trail. We parked at seton valley campground and paid $9 for Peking.

  • Maggie M.
    Aug. 4, 2018

    Huron-Manistee National Forest

    We weren’t planning to camp but...

    but we were blown away! The dunes along the river seem out of place, and wonderfully so. you could spend so much tIme here, climbing around, swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the views. We keep our Jeep ready for camping at any moment and places like this are why we do it. We just had to stay, and I am so excited to go back in the fall. I know this says no pets but we were able to bring our dog and saw many other dogs enjoying the park as well!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2021

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Directions were unclear

    After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground.

  • Rachael T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Beautiful but difficult to find!

    We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer. 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!

  • Angelia R.
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    Hidden Gem

    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. A beautiful spot for a quick lunch and as long as no one is across the way, good for a nice dip. Set up a tent and camp at one of the rustic campsites. There are options to drive in and camp. Campsites can be pretty buggy so bring your screens, hats and spray! Awesome backcountry camping spot in a populated area.


Guide to Prudenville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Prudenville, Michigan, where nature lovers can find serene spots to unwind and explore. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure in the great outdoors.

Scenic Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Goose Creek Trail Camp is nestled near trails that provide ample opportunities for hiking and horseback riding, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Prudenville, Michigan

  • When visiting the Huron-Manistee National Forest, be sure to pack out what you pack in, as this area promotes a leave-no-trace philosophy to preserve its natural beauty.

Fishing and Recreation While Free Camping Near Prudenville

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Prudenville, MI?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Prudenville, MI is Cut River Dispersed Campsite with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Prudenville, MI?

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Prudenville, MI, with real photos and reviews from campers.