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Dispersed Camping

Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites, near Cadillac, Michigan, is a fantastic location for those seeking a true escape into nature. This area offers a backcountry experience with spacious campsites, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors without the usual crowds.

Visitors rave about the fishing opportunities here, with many reporting excellent catches of bass in the crystal-clear waters. One camper shared, “Literally, some of the best fishing I have ever done,” highlighting the area's appeal for anglers. The campsites are rustic and allow for campfires, making it a perfect setting for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.

Finding your way to the campsites can be a bit tricky, but once you arrive, the beautiful wooded surroundings and serene lakes make it worthwhile. Reviewers have noted that the area is a bit buggy, so it’s wise to bring some insect repellent. If you’re up for a little adventure, there are hiking trails nearby that offer stunning views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.

While the location can get busy, especially during peak times, many campers appreciate the peaceful spots they discover away from the main trails. Whether you're camping with friends or family, Sand Lakes Quiet Area provides a refreshing retreat into nature that’s hard to beat.

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Location

Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites is located in Michigan

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.723723 N
85.360614 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Connectivity

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Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites needs a permit.

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General Info


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Reviews

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9 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 2, 2025

Quiet is right!

Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.

This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.

From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.

I’d love to come again.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Maddy T., September 2, 2025
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Maddy T., September 2, 2025
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Maddy T., September 2, 2025
  • (8) View All
Reviewed May. 26, 2024

Awesome fishing and great camp 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!!

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by deven S., May 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by deven S., May 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by deven S., May 26, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 17, 2023

Beautiful but difficult to find!

We struggled to find this place and knew with the reviews it was possible. We ended up googling it on Google maps because the location on here was off and that got us closer. 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!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Rachael T., August 17, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Rachael T., August 17, 2023
Reviewed Mar. 26, 2023

Amazing area

Amazing fishing and spacious campsites fire away from everybody. Fires were allowed ample firewood available for processing multiple lakes great hiking. 

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.

Beautiful nature area I loved hiking in and hiking around the various lakes seeing what the area had to offer. One of the best times I’ve ever had camping. Great company also helps. 

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Dan K., March 26, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Dan K., March 26, 2023
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Dan K., March 26, 2023
  • (19) View All
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2021

Directions were unclear

After driving to the coordinates listed, had a difficult time finding the actual spot, ended up leaving to find a different camp ground.

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Jul. 27, 2020

Slightly Confusing

We arrived somewhat late on the first night and had a hard time finding a proper area to camp. We eventually popped up a small tent near a hiking trail to avoid getting lost. After some driving around the next morning, we managed to find a quiet spot near the river which was quite relaxing! Hiking around it was clear there were a LOT of tics though so we avoided the trails. I didn’t find many clear areas with safe water to swim in which was disappointing but I will definitely be going back!

Reviewed Jul. 19, 2020

Hidden Gem

Though this area is usually busy, there is plenty of trail to explore here. We 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. Set up a tent and camp at one of the rustic campsites. There are options to drive in and camp. Campsites can be pretty buggy so bring your screens, hats and spray! Awesome backcountry camping spot in a populated area.

  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Angelia R., July 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Angelia R., July 19, 2020
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Angelia R., July 19, 2020
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Apr. 29, 2019

Best backcountry camping in Grand Traverse area

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. We pitched our tent, stoked the fire, and didn't see another soul during our entire time there. We had our car parked right up next to our site. We explored a bit walking around on the foot traffic trails, which is beautifully wooded and shaded. Didn't explore too much more of the area, but hopefully more reviews will tell of others' experiences here in this beautiful area. It's all backcountry, but it was perfect for the evening-- complete removal from the city!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Alyssa A., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Alyssa A., April 29, 2019
  • Review photo of Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites by Alyssa A., April 29, 2019
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed at Sand Lakes Quiet Area?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed at Sand Lakes Quiet Area. Campers can set up at designated backcountry sites around the lakes and along the trails. These sites don't require specific reservations, but camping permits are required as this is a state park. The area offers spacious campsites far away from other campers, providing a genuine backcountry experience. Sites are primitive with no developed facilities, following typical dispersed camping regulations. For current permit requirements and regulations, check with Michigan DNR before your trip.

What trails can you hike while camping at Sand Lakes Quiet Area?

Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers plenty of trails to explore while camping. The network of paths winds through the northern Michigan wilderness, connecting multiple lakes and camping areas. Hikers can follow trails that lead to scenic spots with gorgeous water views, perfect for a quick lunch break or fishing. The trails are generally accessible and provide opportunities to discover quiet openings and serene lakeshores. Some paths lead directly from the parking area to campsites (about a 10-minute walk), while others extend further into the backcountry. The varied terrain allows for both short walks and longer explorations throughout your stay.

Where are the backcountry campsites located in Sand Lakes Quiet Area?

The backcountry campsites at Sand Lakes Quiet Area are located near several beautiful lakes and waterways. To access these sites, you'll need to park in a small lot with a yellow gate that marks the trailhead. From there, it's approximately a 10-minute hike to reach the camping areas. Sites are distributed around the lakes, with some prime spots situated right next to the water. The area has multiple lakes with campsites positioned to offer privacy and scenic views. Some visitors have noted initial difficulty finding specific sites, so it's advisable to arrive during daylight hours for easier navigation.

What do visitor reviews say about camping at Sand Lakes Quiet Area?

Camping at Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers a serene, secluded experience in northern Michigan wilderness. The spacious campsites provide privacy, with many visitors reporting they didn't encounter other people during their stay. The area features beautiful clear lakes with excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass. Some campers mention initial difficulties finding specific sites, suggesting arrival during daylight hours. The camping experience is described as peaceful and quiet, perfect for those seeking solitude in nature. While occasionally busy during peak seasons, the area generally maintains its tranquil atmosphere. Permits are required for camping as this is a state park.