Primitive camping near Thompsonville, Michigan offers rustic experiences in the Manistee National Forest, a 540,000-acre wilderness with over 5,500 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline. Winter camping is available in several dispersed locations, with temperatures often dropping below 20°F in January and February. The forest terrain varies from sandy soil near the lakeshore to more compact ground inland, affecting tent stability and water drainage.
What to do
Fishing multiple lakes: The Sand Lakes Quiet Area contains several fishing spots across multiple connected bodies of water. According to Dan K., "Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done. We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast." The area requires a short hike from the parking area to reach prime fishing locations.
Waterfall hunting: Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping features natural waterfalls along the hiking paths. Josh D. notes, "Make sure to pack bug spray and be sure to check out the mini-waterfall near mile marker 3!" These geological features are most impressive during spring runoff.
Swimming access: Some dispersed sites offer water access, though conditions vary. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, Angelia R. 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."
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking options exist throughout the forest. Shelagh R. describes the Manistee River Trail as offering "a beautiful and gentle hike" with campsites along the way. The North Country Trail connects with the Manistee River Trail to form a 23-mile loop suitable for multi-day hikes.
What campers like
Site spacing and privacy: At Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, Courtney K. notes, "All up and down green Rd. there's a ton of quiet pull offs, some with fire pits some without." Sites are generally well-separated, with evi L. adding that there are "Large sites, some with more privacy than others, and plenty of ideal hammocking trees."
Off-season accessibility: Several areas offer free camping during winter months. Kevin D. reports that at Government Landing Campground, "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. Very spacious and spread out sites."
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from major cities creates excellent dark sky viewing. Sara W. at Green Road Dispersed described her experience: "Absolutely amazing. So many stars. This was a great place to get away from the city."
Lake Michigan proximity: Many dispersed sites are within walking or short driving distance to Lake Michigan beaches. Hunter G. advises, "Take green road toward cooper creek road and find an empty spot! Tons of free dispersed camping sites on both roads. Plenty of space between sites and from the main road."
What you should know
Site location challenges: Finding specific camping areas can be difficult without proper directions. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, Rachael T. advised, "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!"
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends and summer months see significant increases in campers. Bruce L. observed at Government Landing that "Every site was full. I hear it's darn near impossible to find an open site during June-August."
Pack-in water requirements: Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF and most other dispersed sites lack potable water. William A. noted they were "Super close to manistee beach" but advises bringing all water needed for your stay.
Previous camper impacts: Unfortunately, some sites show evidence of improper use. Kimberly S. reported, "My only complaint is that the previous visitors at our campsite left trash everywhere and had clearly had fires in at least 4 different areas. The campsite was covered in ash because of it."
Tips for camping with families
Hammock-friendly forests: Many sites feature trees properly spaced for hammock camping. Jeff D. at Nordhouse Dunes noted, "Next time I'm coming back to hammock camp. Place is awesome. Not much bugs."
Lake swimming options: Lake Michigan Recreation Area provides beach access for families with children. Tam E. recommends "Site 15 is a great spot off the road with a firepit" for families wanting both swimming access and evening campfires.
Group site availability: For larger family gatherings, Manistee River Trail has options that work well. Shelagh R. observed, "Most sites seemed to be able to accommodate large groups. The sites along the bluffs tended to be farther from a water source, but never too far."
Tick awareness: Parents should check children frequently for ticks, especially after hiking. Katana H. warned, "Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of tics though so we avoided the trails."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Most dispersed camping roads have variable conditions. Bobbi Jo K. warned, "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. Had a 19 foot trailer with high clearance (only trailer brave enough to camp here!)."
Trailer turning challenges: Some sites have limited space for maneuvering larger vehicles. Brittany D. cautions about Government Landing: "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."
Vehicle clearance considerations: Some forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. Connor N. suggests that Green Road is "better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves" when accessing Nordhouse Dunes wilderness areas.
Seasonal road conditions: Sandy roads can become problematic after rain. Andrew G. advises, "There are actually quite a few that are harder to find or even get a vehicle to without 4WD, but most of it is easily accessible in a 2WD vehicle."
