White Pine Backcountry Campground
05 reviews9922 Front Street
White Pine Backcountry Campground
$0.00 - $500.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are not explicitly mentioned for this campground, but user reviews indicate potential high fines ($500) for camping without proper adherence to regulations.
About this campground
Venture two miles along the winding Platte Plains hiking trail from Trail's End Road, and you'll discover White Pine Backcountry Campground—a hidden sanctuary where six intimate campsites nestle among towering evergreens. This rustic retreat strips camping down to its essence, offering adventurers a true wilderness experience without well water, though the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan beckon just a short walk away for those willing to treat their own supply.
White Pine Backcountry Campground is a primitive camping facility ideal for hikers and those seeking a basic camping experience.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite rests within the storied boundaries of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where ancient Ojibwe legends merge with centuries of maritime history. This protected landscape honors both its indigenous heritage and the pioneering conservation efforts that preserved these magnificent dunes and forests for future generations. Every trail tells a story, from Native American pathways to logging roads that once echoed with the sounds of Michigan's timber era.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unfolds here with gentle warmth and refreshing lake breezes, creating perfect conditions for backcountry exploration. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise. Winter arrives with authority, blanketing the landscape in pristine snow from late November through March, turning the trails into a wonderland for snowshoers and cross-country skiers seeking solitude.
ElevationWhile specific elevation markers remain nature's secret, White Pine sits within the dramatically varied terrain of Sleeping Bear Dunes, where ancient glaciers sculpted a landscape of rolling hills, steep bluffs, and gentle valleys. The campground's position offers hikers the chance to experience this topographical diversity, from forest floor to scenic overlooks that reveal the true majesty of Michigan's coastline.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient glaciers left their artistic signature across every vista. Dense forests of white pine, maple, and beech create a verdant canopy overhead, while glimpses of Lake Michigan's sapphire waters peek through the trees. The nearby shoreline reveals nature's sculpture garden—smoothed pebble beaches and windswept dunes that shift and change with each season, creating an ever-evolving backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Geological RegionWhite Pine Campground occupies a front-row seat in one of North America's most fascinating geological theaters. Here in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the raw power of Ice Age glaciers is written across the landscape in towering sand dunes, mysterious perched lakes, and beaches adorned with colorful Petoskey stones. This dynamic environment continues to evolve as winds and waves reshape the massive dunes, some reaching heights of 450 feet above Lake Michigan's surface.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified for this backcountry campground.
Sites SizeCampsites are standard backcountry sizes, designed for tents.
Sites PrivacySites are described as being tucked away with some seclusion; privacy levels are not fully detailed.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the Lake Michigan shore for easier water access; avoid reliance on GPS alone for navigation.
Best CampsitesUser reviews do not highlight specific campsites as best but emphasize proximity to Lake Michigan as a key feature.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSix individual sites spread out in a secluded backcountry setting.
Open and Closed SeasonSpecific seasonality for White Pine Backcountry Campground is not outlined, although general park conditions suggest access may be weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this campground as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityOperates on a first-come, first-served basis; user reviews indicate availability even on busy weekends.
Cancellation PolicyUser reviews suggest adherence to regulations to avoid fines; no formal cancellation policy detailed.
Activities you can enjoy
White Pine Backcountry Campground provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying the proximity to Lake Michigan. Reviewers highlight the scenic trails and nearby beach access.
Hiking
The campground is situated along the Platte Plains hiking trail, offering a 2-mile hike to the site and additional trails for exploration. A reviewer described the hike to the campground as 'really nice and tucked away.'Beach activities
The campground is located approximately 1/2 mile from Lake Michigan, which reviewers highlight as a 'private beach.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the backcountry nature may allow for winter hiking or snowshoeing in appropriate conditions.Water Sports
Potential for water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding exists due to proximity to Lake Michigan, but no specific details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted but must be confined to designated pits; park regulations apply.
- Quiet hours are expected to be observed at night based on user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note potential vehicle hazards on roads leading to the trailhead; poison ivy and ticks are common in the area.
Active alertsNo specific alerts for White Pine Backcountry Campground, but general park alerts include road closures and construction.
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ranger station located in Empire, MI; nearest hospital in Traverse City, MI.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly defined but summer months are likely peak due to favorable weather.
Trash and recyclingNo explicit mention of trash and recycling facilities; campers should plan to pack out what they pack in.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately half a mile from Lake Michigan, ideal for swimming and obtaining untreated water.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues with outdated GPS coordinates leading to fines, vehicles getting stuck on dirt roads, and loud campers disrupting quiet hours.
HostNo host information is available.
Campground Map
9922 Front Street
Driving directionsLocated about 2 miles from the Trail's End Road trailhead on the Platte Plains hiking trail south of Empire just off of M-22.
Access requires hiking approximately 2 miles on a trail from the Trail's End Road trailhead. Roads to the trailhead are generally accessible but involve navigating dirt paths, which may be less suitable during inclement weather.Nearby places
Empire (approx. 2 miles), Glen Arbor (approx. 10 miles), Traverse City (approx. 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Empire (approx. 2 miles)
larger shopping options in Traverse City, MI.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
White Pine Backcountry Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a mixed sentiment, with appreciation for the natural beauty and secluded setting but concerns about access challenges and unclear GPS markings.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the campground's 'beautiful campsites with an amazing beach close by.' Another user noted the short hike and serene setting as highlights.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include difficulties accessing the site, such as roads being hard to navigate ('our SUV got stuck on the “road” into this place') and incorrect GPS markings leading to fines ('GPS...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend treating water from Lake Michigan before drinking and being respectful of quiet hours. One reviewer suggested, 'if you’re going to camp here, please be respectful of your fellow...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews indicate the campground is less crowded even during peak times like the 4th of July weekend. Seasonal conditions for road access may vary, impacting usability in winter or wet...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campsite is really nice and tucked away with a really easy hike.' - Ruairi McGreevy
2. 'Beautiful campsites with an amazing beach close by.' - Rachel Gunnett
3. 'Our SUV got stuck on the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews do not specify numbered sites but highlight the entire campground's secluded and natural setting.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mention pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025