Platte River Campground

4.67

1.3K reviews

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

653 ft

Price

$22 - $31/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

453 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

653 ft

Price

$22 - $31/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

453 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Platte River Campground

$22.00 - $31.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Entrance pass fees are required: $25 for a 1-7 day pass, $45 for an annual pass. Various campsite fees apply, ranging from $22 to $31 depending on...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$31.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$22.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

231-326-4700

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 1.3K reviews

493 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspaciouslake

Some mention

crowdedreservation

"Overall, Platte River Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and convenient access to natural attractions. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Platte River Campground

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Driving directionsFrom the east (Traverse City): Take State Highway M-72 west to Empire. Turn south on State Highway M-22. Proceed 10 miles and turn right on Lake Michigan Road. Follow the signs to Platte River Campground. From the south (US-31/M-115): At the junction of U.S. Route 31 and M-115, continue north for seven miles. Turn left on Platte Road. Proceed five miles and turn right on M-22. Proceed one mile and turn left on Lake Michigan Road. Follow the signs to Platte River Campground.

The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not indicated, making it suitable year-round.

Nearby places

Traverse City (approximately 30 miles, 45 minutes), Empire (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes), Benzonia (approximately 15 miles, 25 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Riverside Canoe Grocery nearby offers supplies, kayaking rentals, and firewood. Additional supplies can be found in Benzonia, Empire, and Traverse City.

Best Time to Camp at Platte River Campground

Experience the full spectrum of Michigan's seasons in this dynamic landscape. Summer days invite you to explore with comfortable temperatures climbing into the 70s and occasionally touching the 90s, while evenings cool to a perfect 50-70°F for campfire gatherings. As autumn paints the hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons, winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland from November through March, with crisp days hovering in the 20s-30s and starlit nights dipping into the teens and twenties.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season May–Oct with warm beach days and full access to activities; busy but excellent.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Spring and fall noted as quieter with favorable weather and good trail access.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 14% in MI

Spring called quieter and favorable; good for trails, wildlife and early-season visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year-round on FCFS basis Nov–Apr; limited services and fewer listed winter activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 - October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; peak season runs from May 1 to October 31. November through April operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Current Alerts: No specific alerts noted, but visitors are reminded to follow bear safety guidelines and regulations on firewood usage to prevent forest pests.

About Platte River Campground

Nestled between the crystalline waters of Lake Michigan and the meandering Platte River, this beloved campground serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures. With miles of scenic hiking trails weaving through diverse landscapes and thoughtfully maintained facilities that enhance rather than intrude upon the natural setting, Platte River Campground has earned its reputation as one of the region's most sought-after destinations for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

The campground offers a variety of camping options, including standard electric, non-electric, walk-in tent sites, and group camping areas.

Historical SignificanceYour campsite rests within the storied boundaries of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted one of America's most treasured landscapes. This protected sanctuary preserves not only spectacular natural beauty but also layers of human history, from Native American heritage to the tales of early settlers who once farmed these now-forested lands.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Michigan's seasons in this dynamic landscape. Summer days invite you to explore with comfortable temperatures climbing into the 70s and occasionally touching the 90s, while evenings cool to a perfect 50-70°F for campfire gatherings. As autumn paints the hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons, winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland from November through March, with crisp days hovering in the 20s-30s and starlit nights dipping into the teens and twenties.

ElevationSituated at the gentle elevations characteristic of Michigan's northern hardwood belt, the campground offers the perfect vantage point to experience the region's diverse ecosystems. From your site among the towering trees, you're perfectly positioned to explore everything from lake-level beaches to the rolling terrain that defines this glacially carved landscape.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of natural wonders where towering hardwoods mingle with fragrant conifers, creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The nearby Platte River winds its way to Lake Michigan through a mosaic of ecosystems—from quiet forest groves to sun-dappled meadows that once echoed with farm life. Just minutes away, pristine beaches stretch along the Great Lake's shore, inviting morning walks and sunset contemplation.

Geological RegionAncient glaciers left their masterpiece here in the southern reaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, crafting a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Your explorations will lead you through dense hardwood and conifer forests, across meadows reclaimed by nature from abandoned farmsteads, and past mysterious bogs and wetlands teeming with life. Hidden lakes mirror the sky while streams carve their patient paths to Lake Michigan, all watched over by the iconic perched dunes that rise dramatically above the shoreline—silent sentinels formed by wind, water, and time.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum during peak season, with rules to prevent consecutive bookings beyond this limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 people per standard site
group sites allow up to 25 people.

Groups

Group sites are tent-only and can accommodate up to 25 people. Pets and RVs are not permitted in these areas.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutDivided into loops, including walk-in areas, RV electric and non-electric sites, and group camping zones.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, including online and app options.

Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the off-season (November - April). Walk-in sites are also noted for their accessibility during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night’s fee and additional penalties may apply.

AccessibilityMultiple accessibility features are available, including accessible campsites, showers, and restrooms with concrete paths leading to these facilities. One reviewer highlighted an accessible site with a concrete pad around the campfire area.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious and accommodating a variety of setups, including tents and RVs.

PrivacySites offer a mix of privacy levels. Walk-in sites and Loop 4 are heavily wooded, providing more seclusion, while sites in other loops may offer less privacy.

Total Campsites453 campsites

Recommended SitesOuter loop sites offer more privacy. Walk-in sites provide seclusion and are closer to Lake Michigan trails.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Platte River Campground include hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and enjoying nearby beaches. The proximity to Lake Michigan and the Platte River provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation.

HikingHiking opportunities abound, with access to the Platte Plains trail system offering over 25 miles of trails. The Railroad Grade Trail leads directly to Lake Michigan, providing scenic views.

FishingFishing is popular, especially during the salmon runs. The proximity to rivers and lakes makes it easy to find fishing spots.

SwimmingSwimming is available at Lake Michigan beaches within walking distance from the campground. The water is described as clear and inviting.

BikingBiking options include the nearby Heritage Trail, praised as a favorite destination for cyclists.

BoatingBoating activities such as kayaking and canoeing are available on the Platte River, with convenient rental services nearby.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is common, including birds like owls and piping plovers. Nocturnal sounds like coyotes and owls add to the natural experience.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear area and potential for wildlife encounters. Poison sumac and ticks are prevalent in some areas.

Active AlertsNo specific alerts noted, but visitors are reminded to follow bear safety guidelines and regulations on firewood usage to prevent forest pests.

Food Storage RequiredShared bear boxes are available in walk-in sites. Some individual sites have dedicated lockers.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted in designated fire rings only. Only NPS-approved firewood can be burned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services available at Benzonia, including hospitals and police stations. The campground office can also assist with emergencies.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins are conveniently located throughout the campground. Recycling facilities are well-organized, and proper disposal is encouraged.

Water FeaturesWithin walking distance of Platte River; less than two miles to Lake Michigan beaches.

Camp HostHosts are available and provide assistance. Some reviews highlight helpfulness, while others report perceived rigidity in rule enforcement.

Weather at Platte River Campground

Reviews

4.7

1.3K reviews

Top-Rated

Platte River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Platte River Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and convenient access to natural attractions. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Review Summaries

Based on 1259 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include 'clean bathrooms and showers,' 'spacious and private campsites,' and 'excellent access to trails and Lake Michigan.'

Based on 1259 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include 'strict enforcement of rules,' issues with 'campground firewood being low quality,' and 'difficulty in making reservations due to high demand.'

Based on 1259 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own firewood from approved vendors to avoid the low-quality compressed wood available on-site. Consider visiting in the shoulder season (spring or fall) for a quieter experience.

Based on 1259 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are noted for being quieter and less crowded, with favorable weather. Summer is busy, and reservations are highly competitive.

Based on 1259 reviews

Camper Quotes

'This is one of the best National Park campgrounds we've experienced.' 'Bathrooms are always clean and well-maintained.' 'The trail to Lake Michigan is a must-do.'

Based on 1259 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Walk-in sites in Loop 4 are frequently praised for their privacy and scenic settings. Sites close to bathrooms are appreciated by families with children.

Based on 1259 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites are well-designed, featuring concrete paths and proximity to restrooms, making them easy to navigate for visitors with mobility challenges.

Based on 1259 reviews