Escape into Nature at Platte River Campground at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Michigan Camping Guide
Platte River Campground: Why We Love It!
Designated as a national lakeshore, Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the entire country. From crashing waves, sandy dunes, forested trails and miles of pristine shorelines - a trip to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore contains the epitome of Michigan summer days.
View of the Manitou Islands on the shores of Lake Michigan
Without a doubt our favorite way to experience the beauty of the area is by camping. Our preferred place to stay is at Platte River Campground, where we can be surrounded by nature and wildlife. Platte River Campground is a quiet retreat with a friendly atmosphere, expansive campsites and privacy. Additionally, you don’t have to rough it, you can opt for electric hookups and gain access to clean modern flushing toilets, showers and convenient wash stations for cleaning dishes. The prices per night are affordable and range from $22-50, depending on the type of site. I guarantee, you’ll enjoy camping in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
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Spacious sites at Platte River Campground
Camping at Platte River Campground
Centrally located between the beach towns of Frankfort and Empire, Platte River Campground offers modern and rugged sites with access to the lovely Lake Michigan shores along Platte Bay. Situated near all the main attractions, you don’t have to drive far to Sleeping Bear Dunes, scenic hiking trails, the Maritime Museum, visitor center, Platte River and Lake Michigan beaches.
ariel view map of Platte River area
Here is an ariel map that gives you a unique visual of the area. Additionally, check out this online campground map to help familiarize yourself with the layout of the campsites.
Campground Facilities
Modern Facilities include: Restrooms, Accessible Showers, Dish Washing Stations, & Dump Station
The bathrooms were clean with flushing toilets. The showers had hot water and handicap benches.
The campground is set up with four loops of camping sites. Each site has a cement pad, picnic table and fire pit with attached grill gate. All the sites have tall mature trees that provide shade and privacy.
Convenient Dishwashing Station at Platte River Campground
Three electric loops and one non-electric loop (Loop 4) all back up to the RR trail leading to the Lake Michigan beach. The sites are enormous, although a few are configured oddly, with the cement pad separate from the camp fire ring and picnic table.
Camping Options Available
Platte River Campground has 122 sites available with a host of options from back-in & pull-through sites for RV's with 20/30 amp electric hookups, hike in tent sites, and group sites (tents only) accommodating up to 25 people.
*For reference our family of 6 camped in a 27ft trailer for six days at Platte River Campground with friends in August. We camped in a spacious wooded site #206, which we especially loved because we could set up 4 hammocks with ample room. Additionally half of our group did a hike in site in the backcountry and tent camped.
Backcountry Hike-In Sites
White Pine Backcountry Hike In Sites
Want a great backpacking experience but don’t have time to head to Manitou Islands, there is even hike-in backcountry sites. The hike in is roughly 2.5 miles to the White Pine Backcountry Campground. Another option is to get dropped off and take a shorter path at Peterson Drive. The site contains a fire pit with attached grill grate, bear box for storing food, lots of space, and a makeshift bench made from logs. On this specific trip my husband took my three boys for a little adventure and camped at White Pine Backcountry.
ADA compliant sites #209
ADA Handicap Sites Platte River Campground has 8 campsites available which are wheelchair accessible including 4 electric sites, 2 non-electric, 1 walk-in non-electric site, and 1 electric group site. These sites contain a hard cement pad, a fire ring with cooking grate and are located near accessible restrooms and showers. The showers contain a handicap bench inside. The parking, ranger station office and Platte River Picnic Area are handicap accessible. Platte River Point Beach has accessible parking, restrooms, accessible dressing rooms and charcoal grills.
Gorgeous sunset on Lake Michigan at Platte River
Cost to Enter National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore requires all visitors to pay a $25 vehicle entrance fee, which is good for seven days. Passes may be obtained at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire, MI, daily from 9-4 pm and at the Platte River and D. H. Day Campground offices.
Do you have a fourth grader? Get Free Entry for 4th Grade students and their entire family with a free pass, just visit the Every Kid Outdoors Website, complete a short educational activity, and download a free voucher. Good for both homeschool or public school students.
Cost of Camping at Platte River Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes
As of 2024, the cost of a campsite varies from $13 - 50, depending on the specific site at Platte River Campground.
Electric sites: $31 per night
Tent Only (Non electric): $22 per night
Back Country- Hike In Site $13 per night
Group Sites (25 people max): $50 per night
Reservations Reserved online from May 1 - October 15 for individual sites, or 1 year in advance for group sites.
Check In: 2:00 pm.
Check-out: 12:00 noon.
Notable Features of the Area
Philip A Hart Visitor Center
Stopping by the visitor center is always one of our top activities when visiting a new area, this trip proved to be no exception. The nearby visitor’s center has educational exhibits and 3D topography maps. Plus, it’s a great idea to speak with the park rangers as you plan what hiking trails to take or inquire about dog-friendly beaches and programs occurring during your stay.
Educational Programming
Educational programs occur at the amphitheater next to the ranger station
While checking in at the ranger station office, make sure to check out the weekly programming and attend one of the ranger’s educational talks. There is a massive outdoor amphitheater next to the ranger’s station. We attended the ABC’s of National Lakeshore and my children were excited about being called up front to help illustrate a visual demonstration of the manitou passage.
Lake Michigan Beach Access
The RR Grade Trail is a scenic 1 mile path that leads campers to the sandy shoreline of Lake Michigan. This dog-friendly trail to the beach ran along the backs of the campground loops. Since it is a bit of a hike, we often had the entire beach to ourselves. If you love quiet, secluded beaches you’ll be a fan of this one! This private camper’s beach was ideal for splashing in the waves, hunting for rocks and watching the golden sun sink down into the vivid night sky.
Dogs are allowed on the Platte River Campground Beach
Tips When Camping at Platte River Campground
Stop at the visitor center and pick up maps, look at nature exhibits, and talk to rangers about any trail closures and programming.
Pick up a junior ranger book and earn a badge when you participate in the Jr Forest Ranger program.
Know and adhere to rules The campground strictly enforces the rules and the friendly rangers regularly patrol.
Some rules include that all wheels must be on the pavement and they will make you move, which is quite bothersome if you’ve already leveled your camper etc.
Bring bikes to ride around campground loops, to amphitheater and along the scenic Sleeping Bear Heritage Bike Trail.
Do not leave anything out that can attract bears, racoons and other critters such as food, drinks, toothpaste or citronella candles. We left our trash can out (it was empty) but they left a reminder note on our vehicle.
Bring socks to climb the hot dunes since the sand can be HOT on summer days.
Save water and use the convenient dishwashing sinks available, located next to the bathrooms.
Dogs
This area is very dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed at the campground, beach and trails, but must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. Please dispose of dog waster appropriately.
Amenities
Sanitation station with potable, non-potable water, and sewage dumping.
Modern restrooms with flushing toilets and hot showers
20/30 amp Electric hook up
shower/ restrooms which have a handicap accessible bench
Picnic tables and fire rings with grate at each site
Spotty cell reception
Other Nearby Campgrounds
This beloved campground can be tricky to get a spot. Ideally reservations need to be made 6 months in advance. Lucky for you, there are other campgrounds in the vicinity.
DH Day Campground If you don’t mind a rustic campground, DH Day is super close to the best hikes, dunes and overlooks in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Interlochen State Park This popular Michigan state park features modern campground amenities, only a short disyance away.
Fisherman’s Island State Park Another popular Michigan state park for those that prefer a rustic setting.
Nearby Accommodations
Sometimes camping isn’t in the cards. This spectacular area offers a variety of accommodations. Looking for a cozy rustic cabin or a family-friendly hotel with a pool, make sure to check out the best deals at Bookings.com for you next family vacation. If you’re staying for an extended time, another great option is to rent a house in the area through VRBO.
Our family has vacationed in this gorgeous destination many times, we highly recommend Crystal Mountain Resort Cabins, VRBO homes, or hotels.
Dune Climb at Pierce Stocking Drive
PROS/ CONS of Platte River Campground
No campground is perfect. Here are some pros and cons to help you finalize your decision if you should choose Platte River Campground for a vacation destination.
CONS
Popular place, extremely competitive to get reservations
Some sites are awkward with campfire ring and picnic table far from RV cement pad
Black flies can be bad during certain times of year
Bears, raccoons and critters can get into trash
No Playground
If you have young children, you may not like the long walk to the beach
PROS
Biking along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Close to all the attractions, hikes, dunes and beaches
Friendly staff and atmosphere
Dog-friendly
Easy access to nearby restaurants, activities, and bike path
The sites were wooded with mature trees providing shade and privacy, campground sites have a path to the beach
Easily visit town of Glen Arbor, Frankfort and Traverse City
Good rock hunting for Petoskey Stones
Bathroom facilities were clean
Fun sand dunes to climb, scenic overlooks and gorgeous Lake Michigan Beach
Programming and informational presentations by park rangers
Sample Itinerary while Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Day 1 Check In, Stop at the visitor center, set up camp, go to DNR programming
Day 2 Hike Empire Bluff Trail, Beach day and playground at Empire Beach
Day 3 Tube down the Platte River, spend a day at Platte River Point Beach, Dinner and music at Boonedocks
Day 4 Hike Pyramid Point, Ice cream , Drive In Movie
Day 5 Dune Climb, Bike the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, Glen Arbor historic Village, Maritime Museum, Dinner/ Shopping Glen Arbor
Day 6 Drive through Pierce Stocking Drive, Climb the Michigan Dune Overlook , Grab lunch in Fishtown or Glen Arbor
Endless Ways to Explore Nature Near Platte River Campground
Numerous outdoor adventures can be found in the area, with endless ways to experience them from hiking, tubing, biking or swimming, here’s a list of 15 Unmissable Thing to Do in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which highlights in detail, attractions and the best things to do in this pristine corner of Michigan.
Summit of Empire Bluff Trail
Spend a couple hours along the 12 stops on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Run down the sand dunes and climb out.
Explore Pyramid Point trails and dune climb.
Tour Point Betsie Lighthouse and rock hunt on the beach.
Hike Empire Bluff Trail and view the scenic overlook.
Play on the playground and swim at Empire Beach.
Rent tubes or kayak while you float down the Platte River.
Pointe Betsie Lighthouse offers tours
Playground at Empire Beach
Tubing on Platte River
Enjoy a movie at Cherry Bowl Drive In Movie.
Take the ferry over and visit South or North Manitou.
Enjoy being on the water at Crystal Lake by renting kayaks or a pontoon boat on this beautiful, warm lake.
Bike along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Bike Trail. Our recommendation for a family- friendly route is the 4 mile section, beginning at the dune climb and biking 3 miles to the historic Glen Haven, with a stop at the maritime museum.
Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes Maritime Museum and life saving station to learn history.
Maritime Museum
Fun Stops in Nearby Towns
Explore Frankfort or Glen Arbor’s shops and restaurants while you grab a bit to eat or watch a sunset on the beach. are enjoyable towns that are not far away where you can shop or grab a bite to eat.
Tunnel of Trees One of the most scenic drives in all of Michigan, which is especially stunning during the vibrant fall colors. A popular route is to drive from M-119 up from Harbor Springs through the many charming towns until you reach Mackinaw City.
Mackinac Island Every visitor to Michigan needs to add Mackinac Island to their bucket list. This iconic island is gorgeous and a fun adventures for families from the ferry boat ride over, to horse drawn carriage or biking around the 8 mile island loop there is plenty of beauty to behold. Here’s a complete Guide to visiting Mackinaw Island for the Day.
Visit to Fishtown and sample the fresh and delicious seafood Head to Carlson’s Fishery, where you can watch as the fish are caught, smoked, and cooked on-site. Learn about the history by stopping at the Fishtown Museum.
Restaurants Nearby
Papa J’s Need a quick pizza meal, stop at the pizza buffet in Honor.
Boonedocks Located in nearby Glen Arbor this family-friendly restaurant has outdoor seating, live music, and wide variety of food.
Carlson’s Fishery In nearby Fishtown, you can watch as the fish are caught, smoked, and cooked on-site. Be sure to try their famous smoked whitefish!
The Cherry Republic Beer Garden Savor some creative cherry-infused lunch and dinner specials, craft beers on tap, and freshly baked pies and goodies.
M22 Enjoy some wine on the patio at M22.
Best Place to Grab Ice Cream near Platte River Campground
Riverside Canoe Shop After a day on the water, savor ice cream at Riverside Canoe Shop, which is conveniently located near the entrance of the campground.
Grocer's Daughter A unique spot in Empire to visit, nearby the visitor center. You can pick up candies, coffee, or a sweet treat.
Cherry Hut This area in Michigan is well known for it’s cherry production. Try the best of the best at the Cherry Hut, including cherry ice cream. They also have a restaurant and outdoor seating.
Hill Top Soda Shoppe: This cute shop, prepares the ice cream featuring unique flavors, the coconut was hands down the best! They also serve up coffee and specialty drinks.
FAQ’s
Is there cell reception at Platte River Campground? Cell service is spotty along the lake shore, but was good within the park.
Are dogs allowed at Platte River Campground? Yes, dogs are allowed at the campground, trails and beach, but must be on a 6 foot leash.
Where can you fish near Platte River? Good fishing is at both Bass Lake and Platte Lake.
How far away is the beach from Platter River Campground? The beach is just over a mile from the campground on a well maintained trail through the woods and along the foredunes on a mixed terrain of dirt and sand. Perfect for a relaxing hike to watch the sunset.
Can you bring alcohol into Platte River Campground? Yes, alcohol is permitted within the campground.
Can you have a campfire at Platte River? Yes, fires area allowed at the designated campfire rings within the campground. Be cautious and do not leave fires unattended.
Where to pick up groceries nearby? Support local stores and go to Honor Market or Family Fare in Beulah
Is there a playground at Platte River Campground? No, but there is a nice play structure at nearby Empire Beach.
Empire Beach has volleyball net, playground and restroom facilities
What is the tallest dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes? At a 450 feet above the shore, The Lake Michigan Overlook is the tallest dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire, Michigan.
Final Thoughts
Surround yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife found along the Lakeshores of Michigan at the National Park. With an abundance of recreational activities at Platte River and the far reaching beauty of the Lake Michigan shores, this area is an obvious choice when visiting Michigan.
Located near neighboring towns of Glen Arbor, Empire, Frankfort and Traverse City, makes it an ideal spot for fun-filled Michigan day trips. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience, as you begin planning your trip, make sure to Pin and Save for later. If you found this family guide helpful, follow Discovering Anew for more Michigan campground reviews. From our family to yours. HAPPY CAMPING!
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