Boondocking in Michigan - Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness - Spring 2021

Michigan is a great state for camping. With millions of acres of national & state forests, 11,000 lakes, over 3000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, and 100 state parks, you’re sure to find a spot. Finding a free camping spot may take a bit more work.
In the lower peninsula, the Huron-Manistee National Forest (the Huron on the east side of the state and the Manistee on the west) is a great place to start. With close to 1 million acres and hundreds of miles of rivers and streams, there are many inexpensive campsites to be found in addition to the countless dispersed campsites within the forests.
Among those that are free - on the Manistee side closest to Lake Michigan - look for Cooper Creek Road and Green Road near the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area. The Nordhouse Dunes are a great place to explore as well as camp. The National Forest Service has a helpful map and brochure that explains all the details. A great hike can be had from several approaches to the Big Sable Point Light House.
Despite the area having a remote feel, the Upper Hamlin Grocery Store on Nurnberg Road is a conveniently located stop for freshwater, a dump station, and supplies. The Lake Michigan National Recreation Area is just to the north and Ludington State Park to the south.