Michigan’s northwest Lower Peninsula is home to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a stunning stretch along Lake Michigan known for its expansive sand dunes and diverse outdoor activities. Drawing approximately 1.5 million visitors annually, this national lakeshore offers more than just scenic beauty—it is a popular spot for summer camping, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and much more.
Visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes can enjoy miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, as well as inland lakes and rivers that provide excellent opportunities for water sports. The park features hiking and biking trails, historic coastal villages, forests, and seven beautiful beaches for those who want to relax by the water. The tallest dune rises 450 feet, creating an impressive natural landmark for all to admire.
The park was established to protect its outstanding natural features, including forests, beaches, dune formations, and ancient glacial landscapes, according to Pure Michigan. It’s a prime destination for outdoor lovers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Besides Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan’s other national lakeshore is Pictured Rocks in the Upper Peninsula, renowned for the Grand Sable Dunes and dramatic sandstone cliffs along Lake Superior.
To visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, visitors need a national parks entrance pass, which must be displayed on their vehicles. Passes can be purchased online in advance or in person at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center. Entrance fees vary, with a standard pass costing $25, higher rates for larger vehicles, and several annual and specialty passes available. The America the Beautiful pass offers nationwide access to national parks and federal recreation lands with prices ranging from $20 to $80 depending on the type of pass.
For those interested in camping, reservations must be made ahead of time and can be booked up to six months in advance. Campgrounds include Platte River Campground and D.H. Day Campground, as well as options for more rustic experiences on the Manitou Islands and the Mainland Backcountry White Pine Camp. These spots provide campers with a chance to immerse themselves fully in the natural surroundings of the lakeshore.
The lakeshore itself spans 35 miles along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, northwest of Traverse City. Nearby villages like Glen Arbor and Empire add to the charm and accessibility of the area, with M-22 highway running parallel to the shore for easy travel.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is also a haven for paddlers. The park’s beaches, rivers, and inland lakes offer prime locations for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Paddling beneath the towering dunes or along secluded beaches is considered a must-do for experienced kayakers, while the Crystal and Platte Rivers provide gentler trips ideal for families and beginners. Platte River Point Beach is a favorite spot where canoers and tubers can relax by the river mouth before heading home.
With a mix of outdoor activities, beautiful landscapes, and convenient camping options, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore remains a top choice for those seeking a memorable summer getaway in Michigan.
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