Primitive camping near Wellston, Michigan offers natural forest settings on sandy terrain within Manistee National Forest. The region features a mix of dunes, riverside areas, and dense pine stands, with elevation changes of 600-900 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights often dropping into the 50s.
What to do
Hiking the North Country Trail: Access points near Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping provide connections to longer treks. "I've hiked and kayaked this trail on a few occasions and I can confidently say this is one of my favorite trails in all of Michigan. You have the option to do the loop, they allow dispersed camping, and there is plenty to see and do," reports Colin E.
Freshwater fishing: The lakes around Sawkaw Lake offer productive fishing spots. "We caught so many bass we lost count. Well gave up counting. Like every other cast," shares Dan K. Anglers should bring their own tackle and check local fishing regulations.
Swimming spots: Lake Michigan beaches are accessible from several dispersed sites. At Lake Michigan Recreation Area, Tam E. notes, "Site 15 is a great spot off the road with a firepit," providing a base for beach trips. Water temperatures in summer reach the mid-60s to low 70s.
Fall foliage viewing: The forest colors peak in early October. "It was beautiful, especially in the fall. Roads are great until you get to the road to camp," describes Bobbi Jo K. who visited Green Road during autumn.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed campsites offer good separation from neighbors. At Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF, Hunter G. notes, "Plenty of space between sites and from the main road." Site selection is important as some areas become crowded on weekends.
Riverside views: Sites along the Manistee River provide scenic water views. "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," explains Shelagh R.
Lake access: Several camping areas feature nearby lakes. At Sand Lakes Quiet Area, Roger V. appreciates the "great spots near lakeside" and mentions "hiking nearby" with a "quiet, hardly saw anyone" experience.
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting supports diverse animal populations. "The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears," shares Maddy T. about her experience at Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many free dispersed sites operate on different rules seasonally. "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," explains Kevin D. about Government Landing Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping areas vary in quality. At Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road, Connor N. observed, "Road access was fair as well but better suited for smaller rigs due to tight roads and numerous curves."
Weekend crowds: Weekdays offer better chances for solitude. "Many sites were full when I came on a crappy weather Thursday night in early September," reports Kevin D. who still found camping despite challenging conditions.
Pack out requirements: No trash facilities exist at most dispersed sites. "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," notes Kimberly S., highlighting the importance of proper waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Dunes exploration: Kids enjoy the sand dunes near some camping areas. "Next time I'm coming back to hammock camp. Place is awesome. Not much bugs," reports Jeff D. about the Nordhouse Dunes area, making it suitable for families concerned about insects.
Swimming safety: Lake Michigan has unpredictable currents. At Government Landing Campground, Brittany D. cautions, "River access at bottom of steep hill and gets deep fast," important information for families with young children.
Camping amenities: Some sites have basic facilities that help with family camping. "Brand new vaulted toilet, lake view and deep forest all around. Easy access to North Country Trail," shares Fiona about Sawkaw Lake's facilities.
Activity options: Multiple recreation opportunities keep kids engaged. "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!!" explains deven S. about Sand Lakes Quiet Area.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Narrow forest roads restrict larger vehicles. "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. who managed to access Spruce Road Pulloff Dispersed with a smaller trailer.
Turn-around space: Some sites lack adequate space to maneuver larger rigs. "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," cautions Brittany D.
Level site selection: Many dispersed areas have uneven terrain. "Spent a few nights here enjoying Manistee National Forest and Lake Michigan. During our stay we relocated from our original site to a bigger site further down the road," explains Connor N., highlighting the importance of finding suitable spots for vehicles.
Off-season advantages: Shoulder seasons offer better availability for RV camping. "Free during the off season and reserving during the summertime just costs the reservation fee from recreation.gov," notes Truly W., providing cost-saving information for RV campers.
