Top 15 Activities to Do with Kids in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Michigan
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes: Family Travel Guide to the Best Things to Do
Tucked in the corner of northwest Michigan is a Great Lake’s paradise expanding along Lake Michigan’s stunning shorelines. Towering sand dunes, turquoise blue waters, and tranquil rivers is why the The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is herald as one of the most idyllic places to visit in the entire United States. It's truly a magical place for families to vacation, especially during the summer months.
Empire Bluff Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes
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This area offers a vast array of outdoor activities from river tubing on the Platte and hiking Empire Bluff Trail to touring Point Betsie Lighthouse and diving into Lake Michigan’s waves - your family is in for a treat when you embark on these unmissable spots. As life long Michigan adventurers, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do while visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes, plus trip recommendations on where to stay in the area.
1. Climb the Dunes
Wear sunscreen and hat on the sunny Dune Climb
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes with kids is conquering a sand dune! This area is known for its stunning dune formations, originally caused by glacial ice scraping and eroding the ground, leaving behind minuscule grains of sand in its’ wake.
There is truly no end in sight for sandy dunes to tackle, one dune even clocks in at a whopping 450 feet tall. Just to be clear climbing these towering dunes is no small feat and can take several hours to climb back up to the top.
Warning signs are posted, so before scrabbling down any of the dunes, remember there is a $3,000 fine if you’re needing to be rescued.
Lake Michigan Overlook
Lake Michigan Overlook
Topping the list of tallest dune, The Lake Michigan Overlook, rises 450 feet above Lake Michigan’s shore. If you want a challenge this is the dune for you! Access to the dune can be gained from the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Even if you don’t climb the dune, just the gorgeous views alone are worth a visit.
This picture-worthy area is a great place to grab some family photos, you may benefit from a dual tripod/ selfie stick timer.
Dune Climb
Apply that sunscreen and fill up those water bottles. One dune that you can trek across and run down is the Dune Climb. This trail (I say trail loosely, since it’s basically a trek up and across a huge dune) will definitely tire you out. Don’t be fooled, just when you think you’re at the top it continues on. Access is easily obtained from the large parking lot area. Personally, we like to park here and bike to Glen Haven Historic Village and Maritime Museum for the day.
TIP If you’re visiting in the heat of the summer, the sand can get piping HOT. Bring socks or shoes for trekking up and down the dunes. Don’t forget to bring filled water bottles since these sunny hikes can get toasty. Our favorite stainless steel water bottles are Owala’s, which have an awesome straw spout design and are easy to clean.
2.Tube Down the Platte River
Rent Tubes at Riverside Canoes
Relax on the water with an easy trip down the winding Platte River. Rest assured this low key river is perfect for families with children, most of the time the depth of the river fluctuates between waist deep and mid chest. If you don’t have your own equipment, Riverside Canoe is located near Platte River Campground’s entrance and can supply all your needs from life vests, tubes, kayaks or canoe rentals. Plus, convenient shuttle pickups are included back to your vehicle.
If you have your own tubes, popular spots for putting include Fish Weir and El Dorado Park. The best part is that when your float is complete, the river shoots you out into Lake Michigan. The spot where the river and Lake Michigan converge is a favorite area for our kiddos to play, build sandcastles and bask in the sun.
TIP Up for some thrills? Shortly after El Dorado Park, a towering tree on the right extends over the river, tied to the outlying branch is a tempting rope swing waiting for the fearless few. We spent a fair bit of time flinging ourselves out over the river, landing with a splash. Note that the area beneath the rope swing isn’t super deep, so be aware of water levels before jumping. Also right after the swing is another massive tree angled haphazardly over the river. We climbed along the trunk and jumped from its higher branches.
Mouth of Platter River emptying into Lake Michigan
3. Hike the Trails
Dreamy turquoise blue water stretches as far as the eye can see on multiple overlooks by Sleeping Bear Dunes. Hiking to these breathtaking spots are one of our top recommendations. Thankfully, many of these hikes are ideal for friendly. Below are some of our favorites. Pack your hiking shoes, fill your water bottle and get ready for some epic hiking trails.
Summit of Empire Bluff Trail
Empire Bluff Trail (1.5 miles )
Quite possibly the most jaw dropping views in Michigan is at the vista of Empire Bluff Trail. An ideal hike for families, at a distance of 1.5 miles total, even little legs can handle it.
The first part of the trail is shaded and is a gradual incline through a wide wooded path. Near the top you will have your first peak of the distant dunes. Once you reach the wooded boardwalk, prepare yourself for the expansive panorama view as the trail continues along the edge of the bluff.
TIP Go past the spot with benches, and continue on the trail for a bit, until you come to a bowl shaped dune blow out that my children adored running down and isn’t as steep or exhausting as the other dune climbs.
Old Indian Trail (2.5 miles) An easy hike through forests that ends with a view of Lake Michigan. A popular trail, it was closed during our most recent visit due to the evasive Hemlock ash bore.
Pyramid Point Trail
Pyramid Point This hike is another one that offers a chance at a dune climb. This shady forested hike, is equally as beautiful and much less busy than the popular Empire Bluff trail and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. On the back section of the trail there is another narrow and smaller dune climb that rewards you with a sweeping view of the lakeshore and a covered opportunity to run pel mel down the dunes.
4. Spend a Day at the Beach
Splash in the salt free waters of Lake Michigan whilst sinking your toes in warm sand, skipping rocks or taking in the views of the glorious sunsets. A sunny beach day is the epitome of summer days in Michigan. Without a doubt, you’ll quickly realize why this area is a favorite for beachgoers and campers. Here are a few perfect beaches to visit with kids.
Warmer Beach: Platter River Pointe Beach
This unique beach is where Platte River empties into Lake Michigan causing the water to be at least 10 degrees warmer. Your children will love playing in this haven with sandy banks on both sides while watching the tubes and kayaks float down the river at Platte River Pointe Beach.
Best Playgrounds: Empire Public Beach
Playground at Empire Beach
Spending a sunny day at Empire’s Public Beach is perfect for kids of all ages. They have a large playground, just a stones throw from Lake Michigan’s shore, restrooms and volleyball nets. In addition, a smaller toddler playground is situated next to the warmer inland lake. Parking is $1/hour per vehicle, so it’s an inexpensive way to fill an afternoon.
Secluded Beach: Platte River Campground Beach
While camping at Platte River Campground Beach, we adored hiking the shady mile RR trail to the secluded Lake Michigan beach to jump in the waves and watch the golden sun’s last rays sink into the horizon. Due to the lengthier hike, the reward for your endeavors is seclusion. Dogs are allowed on this beautiful stretch of beach.
Esch Beach Another secluded bit of beach, part of the National Lakeshore is Esch Beach. Located only 10 minutes from Empire Bluff Overlook, it’s a gorgeous beach to enjoy. The road to the beach has lots of potholes so drive slow.
Secluded shores at Platte River Campground Beach
5. Cruise on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Bike Trail
A scenic paved bike path, The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, stretches out for 20 miles offering natural beauty around every bend in the road, plus lots of fun activities and history along the route that will entertain children.
At only 2 miles, one of the easiest bike routes for families is starting from the Dune Climb, then following the trail into the quaint village of Glen Haven on the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.
Biking along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
You can make it a whole day of fun by climbing the Dunes, then riding into Glen Haven Historic Village, where you can stop and explore the rocky beach, old fashioned general store, black smith shop, and cannery. Afterwards bike the short trail to the left until you reach Sleeping Bear Dunes Maritime Museum and learn some history.
Bike Rentals: Both the Cyclery, in Glen Arbor and Sleeping Bear Surf and Kayak in Empire have convenient bike rentals.
TIP Air up your tires in Glen Haven Historic village, a pump is conveniently located for individuals to utilize free of charge. Wait to climb the dunes till the end of your bike ride, when you’re not exhausted.
6. Learn at the Sleeping Bear Dunes Maritime Museum
One of the best ways to learn is by experiences. Located west of the Glen Haven historic village, you can view the original Sleeping Bear Point U.S. Life-Saving Station. Leisurely explore the Maritime Museum where displays, movies and original historical items share the history and heroic acts of the U.S. Life-Saving Service and U.S. Coast Guard.
Stroll into the boathouse to view the equipment utilized by the Coast Guard on the Great Lakes in the early 1900's. If possible, visit the Maritime Museum in the summer on Thursdays at 3:00pm, when they reenact rescue missions with the firing of the Lyle Gun. The Maritime Museum is open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, 11 am- 5:00pm.
7. Explore the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
This gorgeous drive features 12 differing spots to learn and explore on the route. This outing can turn into an easy half day adventure. Some are great for a quick stop or a drive by, while others you’ll want to plan additional time to park. At sites 9, 10 we easily spent an hour climbing the dunes and taking in the breathtaking views.
8. Experience a Drive In Movie
Enjoy a bit of nostalgia while introducing your kids to the charm of a drive in movie. Since 1953, Cherry Bowl Drive In Movie has been operating in Honor, Michigan. Today the screens have expanded, but they’re still continuing to share the same beloved family entertainment.
TIP Our family brings along a radio to listen and watch the movie while laying in the back of our truck on a blowup mattress or simply relaxing in camping chairs underneath the night sky as we enjoy the movie outdoors. Check show times here.
9. Go Rock Hunting
Petoskey Stone
Get ready to scour the lakeshores on a rock-filled treasure hunt. Finding a Petoskey Stone or Charlevoix Stone is a Michigan must. These honeycomb shaped fossils are predominantly found along the north shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Instead of pocketing them, capture a picture of your child’s treasures to remember before you throw them back into the water since it’s illegal to remove rocks from the national lakeshore.
If your child has their heart set on finding and keeping their own stones, visit the beach at Point Betsie Lighthouse, which is outside of the National Lakeshore or visit Petoskey State Park on your way home.
10. Tour Point Betsie Lighthouse
Learn first hand how a lighthouse operates as you tour the Point Betsie Lighthouse. As you delve into the history, you’ll discover what life was like for a coast guard lighthouse keeper. Tours are 20 minutes long and cost $5 for adults and $2 for children. Point Betsie Lighthouse is located along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline south of the Sleeping Bear Dunes. While visiting, the public can explore the beach and view the stately 1858 lighthouse, light keeper’s dwellings, and the Boathouse Museum. Closed Tuesdays
Pointe Betsie Lighthouse
11. Stop at the Visitor’s Center and Earn your Junior Ranger Badge
Bring your budding outdoor enthusiasts to the visitor’s center, where children can pick up a Junior Ranger activity workbook for free. By completing fun puzzles, presentations and exploring the area they can earn their very own Junior Range Badge.
Solving a puzzle at the Maritime Museum in her Junior Ranger Activity Book
With educational exhibits and 3 D Maps, the visitor’s center is always the first spot we visit when exploring a new area. By speaking with the knowledgeable rangers, we gather information about the best hikes for kids, dog-friendly beaches, weekly programs occurring, and even their favorite place to grab ice cream. Will you be the next participant in the Jr Forest Ranger Program?
12. Take a Ferry Ride to an Island
Climb aboard a ferry bound for North or South Manitou Island through the Manitou Passage. The Manitou Island Transit Ferry operates seasonally during the summer, starting Memorial Day and ends in October. As of 2024, current round-trip rates are $45 for adults, and $23 for kids 12 and under. If visiting with younger children, South Manitou is the better island to visit. If you want to backpack and camp overnight at the rugged island of North Manitou, here is a trip guide with everything you need to know.
13. Camp Under the Stars
North Manitou Island
Our favorite modern campground in the area is Platte River. This quiet campground is truly an escape into nature, with wide spacious campsites and privacy. Offering clean modern toliet’s, showers and wash stations, you’ll love camping at this ideal location in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshores.
A mile long path, The RR Grade trail, leads beachgoers to the secluded sandy shores of Lake Michigan where they can splash in the salt free waves or relax watching a glorious sunset. Children as well as dogs can enjoy this secluded beach.
14. Grab a Sweet Treat
In our family, food can become a whole adventure in of itself. Finding the best ice cream place or local restaurants. While chatting with locals you can often find some of the most unique places to visit in the area.
Cherry Republic House in Glen Arbor is the place where you can try all things cherry from ice cream, scrumptious cherry pies and over 200 cherry related products and foods.
I highly recommend the coconut ice cream at Hilltop Soda Shoppe. Our family makes it a habit to sample the best ice cream spots when vacationing and this summer my favorite flavor was the coconut ice cream at Hilltop Soda Shoppe-and that is saying a lot!
15. Take in a Sunset
Few things in life are as peaceful as a beach sunset. Breathe deep and relax to the sounds of the waves crashing while the sky puts on a dazzling color display and the sun bends down to kiss the horizon goodnight. There is no mistake that Michigan’s west side has the best sunsets!
Platte River Campground Beach
Cost to Enter National Lakeshore
To visit the National Lakeshore a $25.00 vehicle entrance pass is required and is good for seven days. Obtain passes at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire, or the Platte River and D. H. Day Campground offices, during business hours.
Free Entry for 4th Graders: To obtain a free entry pass, fourth grade students must visit the Every Kid Outdoors website, participate in a short educational activity, and download a voucher.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed on most of the trails and beaches in the area and campground, but must be on a 6-foot leash. Recently, we brought our dog along while camping for 6 days and found the area extremely dog-friendly.
Dogs are allowed at the beach at Platte River Campground
Where to Stay /Accommodations
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore lies near several lovely beach towns with lots of available accommodations. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin, bed and breakfasts or hotels with pools make sure to check out the best deals at Bookings.com. If you prefer to have a bit more space, a house for large groups near the dunes, or a private hot tub then using VRBO is the simplest way to find just what you’re looking for during your vacation.
Our family is huge fans of this gorgeous area, while vacationing we’ve stayed in a Crystal Mountain Resort cabin, VRBO homes, hotels, and even camped for 6 days at Platte River Campground. Trust me the options are endless and it’s easy to find just what you desire.
Crystal Mountain Resort Pool is ideal for kids
Crystal Mountain Resort Although this resort is known for its skiing, summer is a perfect time to stay in one of the cabins or rooms. We adored the pool which featured lily pad crossing and slides. Plus you could do the high ropes course or take the chair lift up to ride the crystal coaster down the mountain.
Baymont by Wyndham Beulah This hotel is in a great location near Crystal Lake with an indoor pool, free breakfast and all the modern amenities, it’s a great options for families with kids.
Cottonwood Inn Quaint bed and breakfast in Empire, Michigan.
Empire Lake Inn Stay right in Empire, Michigan and be close to Empire Bluff Trail and the dunes. Plus it’s only a 10 minute walk to the beach.
Dune Delight Home A large spacious home in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes with amble room for large groups or multiple families.
Brook Hill Cottages Stay in the charming town of Glen Arbor to be near many of the hikes, dune climbs and heritage bike path.
Platte River Campground
*For reference we camped in a 27ft trailer with our family for 6 days at Platte River Campground.
This highly sought after campground is right in the forested area of Sleeping Bear Dunes with large wooded site and privacy, plus modern campsites, 20/30 amp electric hookup and modern restrooms. The 1 mile pathway leading to the beach is tranquil and rewards you with a secluded beach area and gorgeous sunsets. Book 6 months in advance to reserve a spot.
Other Nearby Campgrounds
Sometimes it can be difficult to obtain sites at this popular park. Luckily there is a variety of additional campground options in the area.
DH Day Campground Rustic campground near many of the popular hikes and overlooks.
Interlochen State Park Modern campground at Michigan State Park that is a short drive away.
What to Pack / Tips for Visiting
Bikes Having bikes is a fun way to explore the area via the Heritage Bike Trail.
Beach Toys Pack your coolers, beach towels, swim suits, toys and chairs for a day at the beach.
Fun Stops in Nearby Towns
If you have time, this area along Lake Michigan’s shoreline is teeming with lovely towns including: Empire, Glen Arbor, Frankfurt, that contain a variety of outdoor activities including; beaches, sand dunes, trails with scenic vistas, shops, wineries, delicious restaurants and coffee shops.
Splashing at the Platte River Campground Beach
Tunnel of Trees This popular drive is gorgeous in the Fall, spend the day driving through the colorful tunnel of trees on M-119 up from Harbor Springs until you reach Mackinaw City.
Mackinac Island is a must visit destination for any Michigander. Ride the ferry boat over and explore the island is by horse drawn carriage or bike, hike Arch Rock, savor delicious Mackinac Island Fudge and visit the fort. Here’s a Guide to visiting Mackinaw Island for the Day.
Rent a pontoon on clear waters at Crystal Lake.
Try and catch some fish at Platte Lake or Bass Lake.
Explore Frankfort shops, climb Green Point Dunes and catch a sunset at the beach.
Spend the day in Traverse City and Clinch Park.
Ride the coasters at Crystal Mountain.
Indulge in a seafood feast in Fishtown as you sample the fresh seafood and learn about the history by visiting the Fishtown Museum.
Restaurants Nearby
Hill Top Soda Shoppe: The absolute best handcrafted ice cream I had all summer was from this adorable spot, definitely try the toasted coconut! I’m sure it will be a highlight of your trip, plus they serve up coffee treats too!
Boonedocks Looking for live music, a family-friendly atmosphere and food, then head to Glen Arbor, near Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Grocer's Daughter
Cherry Hut Try all things cherry flavored in downtown Glen Arbor. Go ahead and splurge on cherry pie, cherry ice cream, cherry salsa, and so much more. You’ll appreciate the full restaurant with outdoor dining for visitors on beautiful summer days.
Papa J’s Skip cooking, enjoy the pizza buffet in Honor.
Riverside Canoe Shop End your trip the right way with a delicious ice cream after spending the day on the river tubing or kayaking.
The Grocer’s Daughter Located on 22 in Empire near the visitor’s center, this unique shop makes their own chocolate candies and has an ice cream shop next door. Their coffee is delish and their frozen chocolate bars are awesome.
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!
FAQ’s
How is the cell reception at Sleeping Bear Dunes? Cell service is spotty along the lake shore
Are dogs allowed at Sleeping Bear Dunes? Yes, dogs are allowed at many of the dune climbs, trails and beaches, but must be on a 6 foot leash.
Where can you fish near Platte River? Good fishing can be found at both Bass Lake and Platte Lake
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.
Where to shop for groceries nearby? Go to Family Fare in Beluah or Honer Market
Final Thoughts
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore contains a treasure trove of outdoor adventures to experience. Get your camera ready to capture the joy and awe in your children’s eyes as you create lifelong memories exploring this majestic coastline along Michigan’s northern shores.
Situated near the beach towns of Frankfort, Glen Arbor, Empire and Traverse City, makes it accessible area for easy Michigan day trips. Make sure to Pin and Save for later. If you found this guide helpful, follow Discovering Anew for more campground reviews and Michigan adventures.
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