Dispersed camping near Spring Lake, Michigan can be found throughout the Manistee National Forest, which encompasses over 540,000 acres of public land. The region features sandy soil conditions with mixed hardwood forests and small lakes scattered throughout the territory. Most dispersed camping sites in this area require navigating unpaved forest roads with varying seasonal conditions depending on recent weather patterns.
What to do
Hiking access: Several dispersed camping areas connect to the North Country Trail, a 4,600-mile scenic trail that passes through seven states. At Sawkaw Lake, campers enjoy direct trail access. As Jay D. notes, "There are even some hike paths around the area."
Lake activities: Fishing and small watercraft are popular at many dispersed sites. According to Ileene R., Sawkaw Lake "has boat access" with campsites positioned near the shoreline. Tony N. confirms the appeal: "having the lake right there was nice."
Wildlife observation: The forest area supports diverse wildlife requiring appropriate food storage. Joseph C. warns campers at Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping to "be aware, when camping here you may be in coyote territory, and they don't seem to like it. So, maybe not a great spot for kids, or smaller pets."
What campers like
Secluded settings: Many dispersed camping areas offer isolation from crowds, especially midweek. Lori T. describes Sawkaw Lake as "peaceful" with "not a person around" on a Tuesday, though she notes it "might change by Friday."
Open camping areas: Several rustic camping sites near Spring Lake feature spacious clearings. Ashley H. appreciates Sand Road's versatility: "Perfect for big families or even solo camp! Spots big and small plenty to choose from."
Natural features: Campers frequently mention the surrounding forest environment as a highlight. Dmario simply describes Sand Road as having "Beautiful scenery," while Jay D. found spots around Sawkaw Lake to be "nice and quite... pretty tranquil."
What you should know
Access challenges: Vehicle capability matters significantly when reaching certain dispersed sites. Logan P. emphasizes that Sand Road "lives up to its name. If you do not have AWD and good ground clearance, don't even try to get there."
Coordinate reliability: Navigation coordinates for rustic camping locations can sometimes be inaccurate. Jolie notes, "The coordinates lead you to a state park... it's 30 minutes out from where coordinates are. Struggled to find any primitive camping anywhere nearby."
Toilet availability: Facilities vary significantly between sites. While Sand Road has no toilets, Sawkaw Lake offers basic sanitation. Ileene R. mentions the "toilet is nice," and another camper notes it has a "brand new vaulted toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: For family groups, look for larger established sites. Ashley H. recommends Sand Road for "big families" with "spots big and small plenty to choose from and even some great riverside camping!"
Wildlife awareness: Consider wildlife activity patterns when camping with children or pets. At Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping, Joseph C. encountered coyotes that were "less than 100 yards away" and advises it's "maybe not a great spot for kids, or smaller pets."
Site proximity: Some dispersed areas offer sites with more privacy than others. At Sawkaw Lake, Tony N. observes, "Not a lot of privacy between sites, but they are very large so you don't feel on top of another."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle requirements: RV access to rustic camping near Spring Lake requires careful planning. Dennis N. explains Sand Road allows RVs but "will need 4x4. Hits the name. Sand Rd."
Alternative vehicle options: Campers with vans report easier access to some areas. Noah E. shares, "The directions take you to a parking lot... I'm in a van and this worked great for me. Quiet area and right off the lake."
Site maintenance: Prepare to do some cleanup when arriving at dispersed camping areas. Ileene R. reports at Sawkaw Lake: "Not tons of trash but I cleaned up some left in fire pit."
