The best camping near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore adventure.

The best camping near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore adventure.

Camping near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

100% (53 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore adventure.

Sand dunes tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan.  

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Community favorites near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Top-rated campgrounds near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

99%
(513)

Camp Moonshadow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI
Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen
Pets
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from 
$60
 / night
98%
(65)

Up North Rivers Camping

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
We have 20 Acres of rolling hills, mostly forested, nestled on the banks of a flowing creek, we are also a budding flower farm, this summer there will be hundreds of dahlias blooming, along with many other flowers. If you have a special occasion, that calls for fresh flowers, be sure to let us know! Our setting is quiet, private and scenic. We occasionally see the Aurora Borealis right from our house. We are located in beautiful Manistee, Michigan where outdoor adventures abound!! Manistee is a peaceful, quaint Northern Michigan town with shopping, antiquing, fine dining and a River Walk. We are minutes from award winning fishing spots on the Big Manistee, Little Manistee, Bear Creek Trout Streams and the Platte River. There are many opportunities to canoe, kayak and paddle board. We are 10 minutes from the Lake Michigan shore, and many beaches are close by. You have a choice of gorgeous sand beaches with picturesque dunes, and rocky beaches for those looking for fossils, agates, beach glass and beautiful beach stones. We are within an hour of Sleeping Bear Dunes which has award winning hiking. Traverse City is 40 minutes away with many activities, especially the Cherry Festival. The area is known for live music venues, and lots of weekend art festivals. Manistee is also home to the Little River Casino. We have firepits at each campsite, dry firewood is available to purchase, feel free to pay by cash, Venmo or CashApp, cost is $11.00 a wheelbarrow. Fresh flowers are available to purchase, seasonally. An outhouse is available for use and is supplied with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. There is a garbage can and recycling bin near the outhouse. We installed a water hydrant so you can get potable water to bring back to your site, or hose off with on the spot. A scenic small creek runs by many of the campsites. We live on the property and are here to answer your questions. Feel free to text us. We hope you enjoy your stay!! Dean and Jackie
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from 
$26
 / night

Arcala Bunkhouse

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Cadillac, MI
Peaceful setting on 40 wooded acres that is located at the end of two county seasonal roads with virtually no traffic. Upon arriving at the property, you will enter through a gate and arrive to the secluded camp area with a beautiful, cozy full log cabin. The cabin has propane lighting, propane refrigerator, an antique stove with burner tops, and a free-standing propane gas stove for crisp evenings. There is a small kitchen area with a sleeping loft above and a sitting/family area at the far end of the cabin. The kitchen is equipped with pots and pans, coffee pot, dishes, and misc. utensils. *Please bring your own linens, pillows, and water. On the backside of the cabin, you'll find a peaceful sitting area with a firepit. When nature calls, there is a well-built outhouse that is available. There are trails that meander through the property for those who enjoy walking, biking, snowmobiling, or four wheeling. You won't find a more peaceful, tranquil property to relax in and enjoy the wildlife. Only 1.3 miles into Manton with several bars and restaurants. Within 3 miles you are able to gain access to State property, the Manistee River, and Chase Creek. From the trails in this area you can go as far as Houghton Lake and Fife Lake. Great area for hunting, fishing, four wheeling, dirt bikes, and hiking. This is a great getaway you don't want to miss out on!
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from 
$90
 / night
100%
(3)

Patchwork Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents68 acres · Buckley, MI
Welcome to our idyllic retreat nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan's countryside, where the beauty of a working crop farm awaits you. Surround yourself with the peaceful ambiance of corn, wheat, and hay fields stretching beyond the front yard, offering wide-open vistas and stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and gold. Unwind by the campfire and let the crackling flames soothe your soul as you gaze up at the starry night sky. Whether you choose to relax in the serenity of our rural oasis or embark on an adventure to explore all that Northern Michigan has to offer, our farm provides the perfect backdrop for your getaway. Conveniently located just 15 miles south of Traverse City and the renowned Interlochen Arts Academy, our retreat offers easy access to the best that the region has to offer. Spend your days exploring the pristine shores of Lake Michigan or discovering the beauty of the many inland lakes and beaches nearby. Hiking and biking trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the area, while nearby wineries, breweries, restaurants, and shopping venues promise endless opportunities for entertainment and indulgence. At our farm, we offer two campsites equipped with water and electricity on grassy pads, nestled amidst the tranquility of nature with woods in the backyard. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or an action-packed adventure, our farm provides the perfect home base for your Northern Michigan getaway. Come and experience the charm and beauty of our countryside retreat, where relaxation and adventure await at every turn.
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from 
$40
 / night
100%
(6)

Bear Woods Resort

6 sites · Lodging, RVs65 acres · Bear Lake, MI
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan, our enchanting 65-acre property offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature's beauty. Situated amidst rolling hills and woods, our property serves as a basecamp for your Northern Michigan adventure. From here, you'll find yourself conveniently positioned to explore all the region's hotspots, including the pristine Lake Michigan beaches, a round of golf at the acclaimed Acadia course, the iconic M22 drive, and visits to charming cities such as Frankfort, Traverse City, and Bear Lake. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, golfer, beach lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, our property offers the perfect starting point for your daily excursions. For those who prefer the comforts of home on the road, we offer three spacious RV full hook-up sites, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. These sites provide all the essential amenities, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, making it convenient for RV enthusiasts to relax and recharge. Additionally, we offer a unique glamping experience with canvas tents that allow you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the comforts of a cozy retreat. As the sun sets, gather around a campfire, stargaze under the vast Michigan sky, and savor the tranquility of our secluded haven. Whether you're embarking on a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends and family, or a solo retreat, our 65-acre property welcomes you to experience the best of Northern Michigan.
Pets
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from 
$40
 / night
100%
(6)

Secluded Hidden Gem in Leelanau CO

1 site · LodgingNorthport, MI
When we bought our land 7 years ago, it was on old apple orchard turned vineyard. In the time since, we have put our all into it to build a home and create a forever homestead to raise our family. To us, it’s the greatest place on Earth. We absolutely love where we live and think you will too!Learn more about this land:Newly built tiny house 2 miles south of Northport. Nestled in the woods overlooking a pond and surrounded by an organic vineyard/farm. Short walk to organic winery, 5 minute drive to quaint town of Northport, 15 minutes to Leland and Fishtown, and 20 minutes to Sutton’s Bay. The tiny house sleeps 2 on a queen sized bed in loft and another 2 on a futon on main floor. All linens are included. The kitchen is equipped with refrigerator/freezer, 2 burner hot plate, electric skillet, and coffee maker. There is water in the tiny house, but there is not a toilet or shower inside. A portable restroom is located right outside.
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from 
$100
 / night
100%
(2)

Chalet Getaway on 42 acres

2 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Cadillac, MI
This property has been in our family for over 60years.   We owned the original farm house on the corner in the 60s with 50 acres.   When our grandparents retired we sold the farmhouse and kep the acreage.   With a strong desire to continue the tradition and memories we built a Chalet in 2000.   Now, we carry on the activities of hiking, cycling and motorsports activities with our young boy/girl twins.   We also very much sharing this special place with guests.   We take hosting seriously and are view every piece of feedback as an opportunity to improve. 6 miles away you have Mitchell State Park. White sand, blue water and warm sunlight mesh to make a rockin’ vacation atmosphere at William Mitchell State Park. Whether you’re a fan of skiing, hiking, snowmobiling, fishing or swimming, you can give your next outdoor excursion a dash of something special here. Enjoy the celebratory vibe that comes along with seasonal festivals and top-notch picnicking on 300+ acres between Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac, or head out on the Mitchell-Heritage nature trail for superb wildlife viewing. The lakes are connected by a charming, historic canal that only adds to the pleasure of being in a unique waterfront area. The Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish center is a destination in itself, and kids will love the aquarium of local Michigan fish. Got your number yet? Loveable dorky niche activities, like paddleboating and metal detecting, play their part in the spontaneous fun of this outdoor sweet spot.  Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent or park your Camper on 42 acres of the best Northern Michigan has to offer. We are located 1 mile from the Manistee National Forest. Activities incluced hiking, biking, motorcycling, ATV, Side by Side and most any outdooractivity. We are located about 9 miles Northwest of Cadillac. The star gazing and serenity of the property are exceptional. Note: We have an 1.4 mile ATV track featuring berms and jumps on property. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
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from 
$33.25
 / night

The best camping near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore guide

Overview

About

Panoramic views of Lake Michigan await in the Sleeping Bear Dunes. This 35-mile slice of lakeshore has wild beaches, lush coastal forests, and—of course—sweeping sand dunes that tower over the lake. Hikers have 100 miles of trails to explore, dotted with lookout points, wildflower fields, and inland lakes, while the Dune Climb and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive afford the most spectacular views. Campers have a choice of lakeside campgrounds, where you can swim, kayak, and fish, or you can hop on the ferry to the Manitou Islands to explore historic lighthouses and pitch a tent at rustic beach campgrounds. 

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for backcountry campers: Weather Station Campground has 20 walk-in tent sites with fire pits on the south side of South Manitou Island.
  • Best for RVs: Platte River Campground has 96 back-in and pull-through sites, all with electric hookups.
  • Best for views of the dunes: DH Day Campground has 87 campsites, including some walk-in tent-only sites and others suitable for RVs (no electric hookups).

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve a site at one of the campgrounds or purchase a backcountry camping permit via the Recreation.gov website. First-come, first-serve camping is available from October through April (exact dates vary for each campground, so check ahead). 
  2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. 
  3. Sites can fill up quickly for summer and holiday weekends, so book a minimum of three months ahead to avoid disappointment.

When to go

May through October is the most popular time to visit, and the views are ever-changing, as summer wildflowers give way to blazing fall foliage. June through Labor Day provides the best weather for swimming, but it’s still possible to get on the water until the winter frosts set in. Winter visitors can make the most of the snowfall from late November through March—popular activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding down the dunes.

Know before you go

  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is on the northeast shore of Lake Michigan, 160 miles north of Grand Rapids or about a 2-hour 40-minute drive away.
  • There is a per-vehicle admission fee to visit the park, and camping reservation fees also apply. 
  • Facilities in the park include the Philip A. Hart and South Manitou Island Visitor Centers, picnic areas, and restrooms. Gas, groceries, and other supplies are available from Glen Arbor, Empire, and other coastal villages. Cell phone service is patchy.
  • There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Sleeping Bear Dunes. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is also accessible. 

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