Sand Lake Campground
4.3764 reviewsSand Lake Campground
$40.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$105.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for Sand Lake Campground range from $40.00 to $80.00 during peak season. Tent-only nonelectric sites, RV nonelectric sites, and standard nonelectric sites are priced at $40.00 per night. Group tent-only area nonelectric sites cost $105.00 per night.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Sand Lake, this enchanting campground seamlessly weaves together the timeless appeal of wilderness camping with thoughtfully placed modern conveniences. Towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral overhead, their leaves whispering stories of countless camping adventures while providing cool, dappled shade throughout the grounds. Families gather on the inviting sandy beach, where children's laughter mingles with the gentle lapping of waves, and evening campfires cast a warm glow across private, well-spaced sites that offer both connection and solitude.
Sand Lake Campground accommodates various camping styles, including RV and tent camping, as well as group sites.
Historical SignificanceSand Lake Campground stands as a cherished gateway to the magnificent Huron-Manistee National Forests, a testament to conservation efforts that have preserved this remarkable landscape for generations. This protected wilderness has long served as a sanctuary where wetlands and forests intertwine, creating a living museum of Michigan's natural heritage and offering visitors a chance to connect with the same wild spaces that have captivated nature lovers for decades.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days unfold with perfect camping weather, as temperatures hover around a comfortable 80°F, ideal for both water activities and forest exploration. The warm season brings the symphony of nature in full voice, though visitors should come prepared for the occasional mosquito - a small price to pay for experiencing this thriving ecosystem at its peak. Cool mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons, creating the perfect rhythm for outdoor adventures.
Natural Features and ScenerySpanning 50 acres of crystal-clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming and paddling, Sand Lake creates a stunning centerpiece for this beautifully wooded retreat. The surrounding forest paints a living portrait with varying degrees of canopy coverage - some sites bask in pools of sunlight that warm morning coffee, while others rest in the deep, cool shade of mature trees. This diverse landscape offers each camper their ideal balance of sun and shadow, creating micro-environments that cater to every preference.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of the Huron-Manistee National Forests - nearly a million acres of protected wilderness - Sand Lake Campground offers a window into one of Michigan's most treasured natural regions. This remarkable ecosystem encompasses 6,000 acres of vital wetlands across the northern Lower Peninsula, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rolling forests, pristine lakes, and diverse habitats that support an incredible array of wildlife and plant species.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible showers with dual showerheads. Vault and flush toilets are accessible. Parking near bathrooms is possible for ease of use.
Sites SizeSites range from small and secluded to spacious with ample room for multiple tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews vary, with some sites offering significant privacy due to wooded surroundings, while others are described as being too close to neighbors.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 offers privacy, a short trail to the beach, and proximity to bathrooms. Site 19 is favored for its shade and separation by trees.
Best CampsitesSites 12 and 19 are frequently praised for privacy, proximity to the beach, and overall experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is officially listed as 1 PM though some guests report differing times.
Check-out
Check-out time is officially listed as 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site typically accommodates up to 8 guests.
Groups
Group sites are available for up to 22 people, but user reviews indicated they might be better suited for smaller groups. Proximity to bathrooms varies.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes a loop layout. Sites vary between open and shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open for reservations from May 09 to September 02 during peak season. Reservations are unavailable from September 02 to May 09 for the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov. The contact center services are also available.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited. First-come, first-serve sites are available but must be booked via the app or canceled reservations are required to secure them.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. For group sites, cancellations occurring less than 14 days before arrival also forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sand Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, and beach-related activities. Many visitors have praised the sandy beach and its suitability for families with children due to shallow waters.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available but limited in scope compared to other campgrounds. Some reviews noted a lack of extensive hiking options.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are popular, with species such as bluegill, perch, and smallmouth bass available. A boat ramp provides access to deeper fishing spots.Swimming
The sandy beach and shallow waters make swimming enjoyable, especially for families with small children. Water shoes may be recommended due to shells and rocks.Biking
Biking is an option within the campground. Some families appreciated the safety and spaciousness for children to bike around.Boating
Boating activities such as canoeing, sailing, and power boating are common. A boat ramp is available for public use.Wildlife viewing
The forested setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, including birds and small woodland creatures.Beach activities
The beach offers clean sand and picnic facilities, providing an excellent area for swimming, sunbathing, and family gatherings.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are possible at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits. Guests are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent forest threats.
- Quiet hours are enforced but not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitoes and ticks during summer. Caterpillar infestations have been reported by visitors during specific seasons.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 09 to September 02
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal options are available; some reviewers noted they were maintained adequately. Recycling is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly on Sand Lake and offers a boat ramp and sandy swimming beach.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with campsite conditions such as lack of level pads, cleanliness of bathrooms during some visits, and management responsiveness.
HostReviews repeatedly praise campground hosts for their cleanliness efforts and customer service.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Wellston, MI, take Seaman Road 3.9 miles south through Dublin. Just beyond the grocery store, turn right and stay on Seaman Road. Go 0.5 miles to Sand Lake Road (Forest Road 5728) and the campground sign. Turn right onto Sand Lake Road and go 0.6 miles to the campground.
Limited information on accessibility provided. The campground is accessible via Forest Road 5728, which could involve typical forest road conditions.Nearby supplies
The closest supplies can be found at the Dublin General Store, located near the campground and highly recommended in reviews for its snacks, meals, and jerky.
Camper Reviews
4.4
64 reviews
Sand Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Sand Lake Campground are generally positive, highlighting the clean facilities, family-friendly beach, and attentive hosts. However, issues such as overcrowding, inconsistent cleanliness, and site layout have been raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praises include clean and functional bathrooms, the scenic and shallow lake ideal for families, and helpful campground hosts. Many visitors also enjoyed the proximity to the Dublin General...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unlevel campsites, poor cell phone reception, ticks and insects, and inconsistent cleanliness in showers and restrooms.
Based on 64 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water shoes for the lake due to shells and rocks. Purchase firewood locally to avoid invasive pests. Visit the Dublin General Store for supplies and snacks.
Based on 64 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is highly recommended for visits due to warm temperatures and active hosts. However, gypsy moth infestations and harsh weather conditions have been noted in some years.
Based on 64 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were clean, just no soap." "The lake is fairly small and has lake homes around the perimeter." "We love Sand Lake and have been coming here since before we had children over 40 years...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12: Highly recommended for its proximity to the beach and clean bathrooms. Site 34: Complaints about unlevel ground and poor fire pit positioning. Site 19: Good privacy and shaded area. Site...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features such as dual showerheads and parking near bathrooms are appreciated, although detailed accessibility reviews were limited.
Based on 64 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some users noted sandy conditions making pets dirty quickly. No specific pet-friendly amenities were mentioned.
Based on 64 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025