Dispersed camping sites near South Branch, Michigan extend beyond the main areas in Manistee National Forest, with additional primitive camping opportunities throughout the region's 540,000 acres of public land. The area features sandy soil conditions that drain quickly after rain, making many remote sites accessible throughout the camping season. Winter camping remains possible at several locations, though water sources freeze and access roads may not be plowed.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping area connects to trails with small waterfalls. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" notes Josh D., who recommends this area for getting away from typical campgrounds.
Swimming in natural lakes: Primitive sites at Sand Lakes Quiet Area provide access to clear, swimmable water. "The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears," reports Maddy T., who found the area completely deserted during her stay. The backcountry sites require a short half-mile hike from the parking area.
Stargazing from remote sites: The darkness at night makes Green Road Dispersed camping spots ideal for astronomy. "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city," according to Sara W., who camped at one of the approximately 15 sites along this road.
Beach access with hiking: Sites along Green Road provide entry points to Lake Michigan beaches. "We stayed at the 5th spot we seen because it is an active location," says Jade M., who notes that two-track vehicle access makes reaching certain camping areas possible but sometimes challenging.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness dispersed areas offer exceptional site separation. "We vowed to return in a month and driving there now for a long Labor Day weekend. Quiet, though our site was adjacent to a trailhead," writes Deanna A., who preferred this experience to standard campgrounds.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes around primitive sites offer fishing without crowds. At Sawkaw Lake, campers find "Beautiful spot overlooking the lake. Sites are large and a bit closer than I like, but on a Tuesday, not a person around," according to lori T., who noted weekday camping provides the most solitude.
Seasonal flexibility: Off-season camping at Government Landing Campground offers free access to otherwise reservation-required sites. "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," reports Kevin D., who visited in early September.
Self-sufficient experience: The lack of amenities appeals to those seeking true backcountry camping. "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," explains Alyssa A., who appreciated camping right next to her vehicle while still feeling removed from civilization.
What you should know
Toilet availability varies: Some sites have vault toilets while most have none. At Lime Lake, "The campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better," notes Mike W., but no bathroom facilities exist onsite.
Road conditions change seasonally: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles after rain. "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," warns Bobbi Jo K. about the Green Road area.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits or have recently added permit requirements. 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," reports Ileene R., suggesting regulations may be changing.
Hunting season awareness: During hunting seasons, dispersed campers should wear bright colors. "We stayed during hunting season and heard gun shots so wear orange if going in season," advises Jade M., who found good camping at Lime Lake despite this consideration.
Tips for camping with families
Loop trail options: The Manistee River Trail loop provides multiple camping opportunities over a multi-day hike. "Start at Red Bridge Access, and you can do a 23 mile loop covering miles on the North Country Trail (west side) and the Manistee River Trail (on the east side)," advises Shelly B., noting different camping rules on each side.
Short hike-in sites for kids: Some areas require minimal hiking to reach campsites. "From the trail head/parking it's about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping," explains Maddy T. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area, making it accessible for families with younger children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot animals from many primitive sites. "Me and my dad went camping here rode our motorcycles into the parking area and had a nice little hike to the camp ground! 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!" reports deven S. about Sand Lakes.
Seasonal bug awareness: Ticks appear in some areas during warmer months. "Think it's just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike," warns Josh D. about the Manistee River Trail, suggesting proper tick checks for children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access limitations: Small trailers can access some dispersed sites but require careful navigation. At Spruce Road Pulloff, "Access to meadow is blocked but enough room to pull safely off the road," notes Linda C., indicating that smaller RVs can find adequate space.
High-clearance considerations: Some primitive camping areas accommodate small trailers with proper ground clearance. "Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!). Very peaceful off the grid camping," shares Bobbi Jo K. about Green Road sites.
Turnaround space: Limited turnaround areas make some sites difficult for trailers. "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," warns Brittany D. about Government Landing.
Cell service for RVers: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "Verizon service was fair. Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves," explains Connor N. about the Nordhouse Dunes area, information particularly useful for remote workers traveling in RVs.
