Best Dispersed Camping near South Boardman, MI
Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites offers free dispersed camping in wooded terrain near South Boardman. The area features multiple lakes with fishing opportunities and established backcountry sites accessible via hiking trails. Campsites are primitive with no drinking water or hookups, though vault toilets are available. Several reviews note difficulty finding the actual camping locations, with one visitor mentioning "We struggled to find this place" and recommending visitors "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."
Additional dispersed options include the Manistee River Trail, where free primitive sites are spread along the river corridor. These sites are accessible only by hiking in, with most situated on the east side of the river. Campfires are permitted at both locations, but campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies. The Goose Creek Trail Camp offers a more developed option with drinking water and toilets, though a permit is required. Government Landing Campground provides riverside camping with toilet facilities, and becomes first-come, first-served during off-season months.
