National Lakeshore · Michigan
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history.
Things to do
- Auto and ATV
- Scenic Driving
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Biking
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Group Camping
- Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Self-Guided Tours - Auto
- Hiking
- Hunting and Gathering
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Tubing
- Skiing
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Swimming
Weather & when to go
Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from from 50 F to 83 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plenty of water--heat exhaustion is common, especially when hiking on the dunes. Fall: Temperatures range from 40 F to 70 F. Fall foliage is at its peak around mid September. Winter: Temperatures range from 15 F to 40 F. Snow is common and is on the ground for most of the winter. Dress in warm layers.
Entrance fees
Commercial Entrance - Sedan
Sedan 1-6 Person Capacity $25.00 + $10.00 Per Person 16 years or older (up to a maximum of $40.00)
$25.00
Commercial Entrance - Van
Van 7-15 Person Capacity $40.00
$40.00
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus
Mini Bus 16-25 Person Capacity $40.00
$40.00
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach
Motorcoach 26+ Person Capacity $100.00
$100.00
Entrance - Private Vehicle
Entrance pass - vehicle 1-7 day.
$25.00
Entrance - Motorcycle
Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
$20.00
Entrance - Per Person
If you enter the park on a bicycle or on foot and are at least 16 years old, you need your own entrance pass. Children under the age of 16 don't need an entrance pass.
$15.00
Operating hours
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
The Lakeshore is open 24 hours a day. Campgrounds, visitor centers, and facilities have separate hours, however, please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
Glen Haven Cannery and Boat Museum
https://home.nps.gov/places/000/glen-haven-cannery-boat-museum.htm
Glen Haven General Store
https://www.nps.gov/places/000/glen-haven-general-store.htm
Glen Haven Blacksmith Shop
https://www.nps.gov/places/000/glen-haven-blacksmith-shop.htm
Maritime Museum and Boathouse
https://www.nps.gov/places/000/maritime-museum.htm
Campgrounds
D. H. Day Campground
D. H. Day Campground Group Campground
Popple Campground - South Manitou Island
Weather Station Campground - South Manitou Island
White Pine Backcountry Campground
Village Campground - North Manitou Island
Platte River Campground
Bay Campground - South Manitou Island
FAQ
- How much does it cost to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
- Entrance to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore costs $25.00 (Commercial Entrance - Sedan), $40.00 (Commercial Entrance - Van), $40.00 (Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus). The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry at every NPS site.
- What are the hours at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
- The Lakeshore is open 24 hours a day. Campgrounds, visitor centers, and facilities have separate hours, however, please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
- Do I need a reservation for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.