The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping in Michigan

129 Reviews

Michigan's public lands offer extensive dispersed camping opportunities across national forests and wilderness areas. The Huron-Manistee National Forest provides numerous free camping options with both designated and undesignated sites along forest roads and trails. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness features popular dispersed camping along Green Road, with sites ranging from spacious clearings to roadside pull-offs. Along Lake Superior's North Shore, campers find remote beachfront sites accessible by gravel roads. The Sand Lakes Quiet Area offers backcountry tent camping with basic amenities like toilets, while the Manistee River Trail provides hike-in tent sites along its approximately 20-mile loop.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout Michigan's dispersed camping areas, with many requiring careful navigation. As one camper noted, "Roads are great until you get to the road to camp. There are very large holes and dips." Four-wheel drive is recommended for accessing deeper forest sites, particularly after rain. Cell service is inconsistent across most areas, with Verizon coverage reported as "fair" in some locations and completely absent in others. Seasonal considerations include spring mud, summer insects, and winter accessibility. Many campers report black flies and mosquitoes as significant concerns, with one visitor advising: "Bring a bug hat and plenty of bug spray unfortunately it's a hotbed for black flies and skeeters."

Waterfront access represents a major draw for Michigan's dispersed camping. Sites along Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and the Manistee River receive consistently high ratings from visitors. Campers frequently mention the privacy afforded by well-spaced sites, particularly in the Nordhouse Dunes area where "campsites are large and spread out." Weekend crowding is common at popular locations, especially during summer months. Several reviews mention concerns about trash and improper fire practices at some sites, with multiple campers noting they spent time cleaning up after previous visitors. Winter camping opportunities exist at several locations, with one visitor reporting successful snow camping along Lake Superior's North Shore: "Road is covered with heavy snow, no issue with an AWD camper van."

Map showing campgrounds in MichiganExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites in Michigan (48)

    1. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    16 Reviews
    Free Soil, MI

    "First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace". "

    "This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem."

    2. Search Bay Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Cedarville, MI
    Website
    +1 (906) 428-5800

    "The road to the sign is easy-peasy, but the USFS is not allowing beach camping anymore. On our second day, we were asked to move."

    "Really cool dispersed camping area along the water. There are lots of sites right on the water shore, which we sadly could not make it to. These would be good for tents, or maybe vans/ truck campers."

    3. Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Skanee, MI

    "You camp on the sand first come first serve, loved it no facilities pure dispersed."

    "Easy gravel road access ,no clearance issues or 4wd needed."

    4. Lake Superior North Shore

    12 Reviews
    Paradise, MI

    "There’s a gravel drive for car camping and smaller rigs. If you’ve got 4WD you can manage to get through the sand to the other sites which are pretty much all on the lake."

    "Road is covered with heavy snow, no issue with an AWD camper van. Snow shoeing in the woods and alone the lake beach. Fantastic!"

    5. Huron-Manistee National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Brethren, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    $10 - $14 / night

    "The children all carried their own tents , sleeping bags, and food for 4 days. The River trail supplied us with our water needs for cooking and drinking, from the Manistee River."

    "this is a vast area in which there are many campground sites with some opportunities for dispersed camping. Use a GPS system or a program to ensure you are not in private property."

    6. Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    9 Reviews
    Williamsburg, MI
    Website

    "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."

    "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."

    7. Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Huron-Manistee National Forests, MI
    Website
    +1 (231) 775-2421

    "Great dispersed camping area to getaway! Can sometimes get busy on the weekends, but nothing like a normal campsite. Think it’s just this summer but I did pull 2 ticks off the dogs after this hike."

    "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."

    8. Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

    8 Reviews
    Whitehall, MI

    "Coordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped."

    "There looks like there are trails off of the parking lot. No signs that say no overnight parking. I'm in a van and this worked great for me. Quiet area and right off the lake."

    9. Hickey Marsh Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Wetmore, MI

    "Was slightly passed the pin marker on the same unlaced road - only about 1/4-1/2 off the highway."

    "This is a great spot, very private and easy to access. T-Mobile cell services was very good. I would warn though that the mosquitoes were pretty bad when we visited."

    10. Lake Perrault

    6 Reviews
    Toivola, MI

    "Nice small lake, easy access from the main road. Road to the lake isn’t paved and there are huge potholes so go slow."

    "Very nice n open for pulling in and doing dispersed camping, nice overview of the lake from the hill , quite too, fire pit made of rocks"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Michigan Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos in Michigan

114 Photos of 48 Michigan Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Michigan

129 Reviews of 48 Michigan Campgrounds

  • Darwin N.
    Jul. 25, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    NF dispersed camping

    First time boondocking in a national forest. Had a big sight all to myself. Spent some time cleaning up from the previous individual who didn't understand the phrase "Leave No Trace".  Other than that I had a great time.

  • Degen G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    Sand Road Primitive Rustic Camping

    Great area to explore

    Coordinates took me to a parking area that was blocked off and marked private property. I parked a ways down from this spot and just hiked in and camped. Very good area for those interested in back country camping and primitive camping, lots of forest to explore. There are also quite a few drive in sites as well for car camping. There was running water in a creek south of Sand Road.

  • Joel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 23, 2025

    Lake Superior North Shore

    Pretty cool spot

    The site was really cool. There’s a gravel drive for car camping and smaller rigs. If you’ve got 4WD you can manage to get through the sand to the other sites which are pretty much all on the lake. Bring a bug hat and plenty of bug spray unfortunately it’s a hotbed for black flies and skeeters.

  • Corey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2022

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    For Forest Dwellers and Lake Lovers

    This is our #1 boondocking area in Michigan (so far). This place is a hidden gem. Forest service roads will take you deep into the forests if your vehicle can handle it. 4WD is recommended if you want to go deep. There are plenty of great spots though for big rigs or for those without 4WD. 15-30 minute drive to Lake Michigan. Local convenience store is only a few miles down the road. Try this place out. You won’t regret it.

  • Bobbi Jo K.
    Oct. 13, 2020

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    A Hidden Gem

    This was our first time boondocking in this area. It was beautiful, especially in the fall. 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!). Very peaceful off the grid camping. Even had cell service!

  • Kimberly S.
    Jun. 22, 2021

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    First time dispersed camping

    This was our first time trying out dispersed camping and this location was perfect! We loved being a short drive away from Lake Michigan and plenty of hiking trails. It is in a beautiful wooded area and there were hardly an mosquitos where we were. 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. It’s disappointing to see that some people really just don’t care about taking care of public land.

  • Alyson M.
    Jul. 20, 2022

    Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road

    My Go-To Camping spot

    I’ve camped here many times, in summer, fall, and spring. The campsites are large and spread out so you get a bit of privacy. It can get busy on weekends since many people know about this spot. It is a short drive to the beach and nordhouse dunes which is known for hammock camping on the beach so you have options. The last 2 times I’ve went there was lots of trash at the campsites, which is very upsetting. Please follow “Leave No Trace” ethics so we can keep enjoying this space.

  • Maddy T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Sand Lakes Quiet Area Backcountry Campsites

    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.

  • evi L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2021

    Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road - Dispersed

    Beautiful but very limited camping sites

    This area is gorgeous, it's surrounded by lake superior, and there is a really neat old lighthouse with pit toilets at the end of the road.. It's a one lane road btw, with multiple cutouts in the road for passing. I stayed here 2 nights in what appears to be an established campsite (with a fire ring, on the right side of the road heading towards the lighthouse) before meeting a local ranger this morning, who informed me that there are only 2 dispersed campsites available here, and both are on the left side of the road (heading towards the lighthouse.) But she did say that you are allowed to stay up to 14 days at either of those sites, before asking me to promptly gtfo. I would have rated 5 stars if there were more sites available, but if you manage to snag one of the permitted ones, lucky you!

Guide to Michigan

Michigan offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the tranquility of nature through dispersed camping. With its diverse landscapes and well-maintained sites, campers can enjoy a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Michigan

Activities for dispersed campers

  • At Search Bay Dispersed, campers can enjoy stunning views right on the shoreline, making it a great spot for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, with numerous trails and beautiful river views to explore during your stay.
  • Lake Superior North Shore provides opportunities for beach camping and stunning sunsets, perfect for those who appreciate scenic coastal views.

Dispersed campers should check out these hidden gems

  • Lake Perrault offers a serene overlook of the lake, making it a great spot for peaceful reflection and enjoying nature's beauty.
  • Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping allows for beach camping with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, ideal for those who love to be near the water.
  • Government Landing Campground features beautiful rustic riverside sites, providing a tranquil setting for a memorable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Michigan's Upper Peninsula?

Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers abundant dispersed camping options. Adams Trail Dirt Lot provides a large, flat parking area ideal for motorhomes up to 26ft and is conveniently located near Pictured Rocks. For waterfront camping, Lake Superior North Shore offers sites directly on the lake if you have 4WD to navigate the sand (be prepared for black flies and mosquitoes). The Hiawatha National Forest contains numerous dispersed sites, including forest roads with established fire rings. Ottawa National Forest in the western UP has similar opportunities. Most sites are first-come, first-served and typically allow 14-day stays. Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles as facilities are minimal to non-existent.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Michigan state forests?

Michigan state forests allow dispersed camping with specific regulations: you must set up at least one mile from established campgrounds and 100 feet from any water source, trail, or road. A free Recreation Passport is required for vehicles. Camping is limited to 15 nights at a single location. Campsites must be at least 200 feet apart. For stays longer than 3 nights or groups of 8+ people/4+ tents, you need a free Camp Registration Card from the DNR. In places like Manistee River Trail Dispersed Camping and Ironjaw Lake Dispersed Campsite, you must use existing fire rings and pack out all trash. Motorized vehicles must stay on designated roads and trails. Hunting season (October-November) brings additional restrictions.

Is dispersed camping allowed along Lake Michigan shorelines?

Dispersed camping directly on Lake Michigan shorelines is generally restricted, with limited exceptions. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Green Road offers dispersed camping in wooded areas a short drive from Lake Michigan beaches, making it a popular alternative. The Nordhouse Dunes area is known for hammock camping on the beach, though overnight stays directly on the shoreline are typically for day use only. Peninsula Point Lighthouse Access Road provides camping near Lake Michigan waters. Most Lake Michigan shoreline is either privately owned or part of state parks requiring permits and designated sites. Always check current regulations with the managing agency before camping, as rules may change seasonally.

Are there any dispersed camping options in Michigan's Lower Peninsula?

Michigan's Lower Peninsula offers several excellent dispersed camping options. Green Road Dispersed - Manistee NF features spacious, private sites accessible with both standard vehicles and high-clearance rigs, though some deeper roads require 4WD. The sites accommodate various camping styles from tent camping to trailers. Mouth of the Huron Dispersed Camping provides additional opportunities in the eastern Lower Peninsula. The Pigeon River Country State Forest in the northern Lower Peninsula has numerous rustic sites along forest roads. Most dispersed camping in this region follows the standard state forest rules: 15-night maximum stay, camping at least one mile from established campgrounds, and 100 feet from water, trails, and roads.

Keep Exploring