Primitive tent campsites near South Branch, Michigan sit within the pine forests of Manistee National Forest at elevations ranging from 750 to 950 feet. The region's sandy soil creates fast-draining campsites with pine needle ground cover, particularly important during the area's frequent spring and fall rains. Winter camping is possible in some locations, though subfreezing temperatures from December through March require specialized gear.
What to do
Hiking waterfall trails: The Manistee River Trail features multiple small waterfalls that make ideal day trip destinations from dispersed camp spots. "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" advises Josh D. about Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping.
Fishing from piers: Access stocked lakes with dedicated structures for anglers. "The lake offers a fishing pier," notes Jeff W. about Leverentz Lake State Forest Campground, where camping costs $15 nightly.
Wildlife observation: The wetlands and forests host numerous mammal and bird species. One camper reports, "Big Leverentz is large enough for small motor boats, and makes a nice peaceful area to kayak around looking for wildlife including fish, turtles, muskrats, etc."
Trail running: Many locals use the interconnected trail systems for exercise. The area sees regular trail runners on weekends, particularly on the eastern riverside trails where terrain is less hilly.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers consistently mention site spacing as a major benefit. "All spots are very spread out so you get privacy at night," writes Alyson M. about her experience on the Manistee River Trail.
Loop hiking options: The combined trail system creates multiple route possibilities. "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)," explains Shelly B.
Multiple camping styles: The area offers both designated and true dispersed options. "Although this is listed as 'dispersed' camping, the camping on the Manistee River Trail side of this loop is mostly at designated sites. Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups," notes Shelagh R.
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. "The sites include a picnic table and fire ring. We had plenty of room between sites... Good boat launch," reports Theresa W. about Healy Lake State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Variable campsite quality: Site conditions differ dramatically between locations. At Timber Creek Campground, James V. notes, "The picnic tables are in rough conditions. It's an entrance to the North Country Trail so it's a busy place."
Tick prevention: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues during warm months. "It was infested with ticks," warns James V. about Timber Creek. Another camper mentions, "I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."
Toilet availability: Vault toilets are common but quality varies. "Vault toilets are available but HOO boy do they smell, so if you have a Luggable Loo or equivalent portable toilet I definitely recommend it," suggests Renae J.
Fire pit limitations: Many sites feature elevated fire rings with fixed grates. "The fire pits have a higher wall around them with a grill on top you cannot remove. Great for cooking food, but if you're looking to sit by the fire to warm up, you'd probably be better off with a portable heater," explains Renae J.
Tips for camping with families
Choose larger lake sites: Family groups need more space. "The sites are large enough and spaced far enough apart that even if it were full you would not feel crowded in at this campground," notes a camper about Leverentz Lake.
Water sources planning: Hand pump availability varies seasonally. "There's one hand pump water source at the entrance," reports one camper, while another mentions, "The east side of the river is more hilly but has an abundance of water spots to fill up."
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant, even in summer. "We went in late May and it got down to freezing temps the first night. Hammock was not the best option but always made for a good story to tell your friends," shares Troy L. about his Long Lake State Forest Campground experience.
Site arrival timing: Weekend campsite competition can be fierce. "We arrived late Friday and most spots were taken. I'd imagine most spots are scoped out earlier in the evening," warns Troy L. about the Manistee River Trail.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most forest roads have clearance limitations. "All sites are in good size and could handle a small travel trailer, Class B RV, truck camper, or several tents," explains a reviewer about the Leverentz Lake area.
Water access: Few sites offer any hookups. "There are 2 vault toilet and one water pump," notes Jeff W. about state forest campgrounds, where hand pumps are the standard water source.
Cash payment required: Most rustic sites require self-registration. "The campsites cost $15 per night; they are not reservable. Also, there is no DNR staff on site so bring cash or check to drop into the payment pipe," advises a camper.
