Trip planning advice manistee national forest

[mrevilandy]

Hey all planning my first trip vehicle camping trip at manistee.
For those that's been there and done national forest camping any advice you can throw at me?

From my understanding I can stick to trails for vehicles and camp almost anywhere that doesn't have a no camping sign is this right? Originally I was going to camp outside but figured this would be a perfect time to build a sleeping platform in the runner instead.

 

[blacksheep4]

Hey all planning my first trip vehicle camping trip at manistee.
For those that's been there and done national forest camping any advice you can throw at me?

From my understanding I can stick to trails for vehicles and camp almost anywhere that doesn't have a no camping sign is this right? Originally I was going to camp outside but figured this would be a perfect time to build a sleeping platform in the runner instead.

Most national forests that im familiar with allow dispersed camping unless otherwise posted, but your best bet is to ask at the ranger station when you get there. Or if you know specifically where you plan on stopping to set up camp, you might find some info on Google. I've actually camped in Manistee as a kid and all I remember is BUGS. But if you're going anytime soon that's obviously not a problem. Have fun, it's beautiful up there!