How much does camping cost at Platte River Campground?

Camping fees at Platte River Campground are $22 - $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Platte River Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Platte River Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Platte River Campground before I book?

Yes! Platte River Campground has 22 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Platte River Campground?

Platte River Campground is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Platte River Campground?

Yes, Platte River Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Platte River Campground have?

Platte River Campground has 453 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Platte River Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Platte River Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Platte River Campground?

Platte River Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Platte River Campground?

Popular activities at Platte River Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Platte River Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Platte River Campground?

Fire policies at Platte River Campground: Permit Conditions: 1. Campers must check-in at the campground office immediately upon arrival. 2. Campers must notify the campground at 231-326-4700 ext. 5029 if they will not arrive within 24 hours of the check-in time or their reservation will be cancelled; they will be charged the first night's camping fee plus a $20 no show fee. 3. Check-in time is 2 pm Check-out time is noon. 4. Camping is permitted only in designated areas, on the established tent pads, and paved parking pads. All vehicles. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.66

1.3K reviews

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Top 8% in MIFall

AReport Card

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingGreat for GroupsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

653 ft

Price

$22 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

453 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

653 ft

Price

$22 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

453 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Platte River Campground

$22.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $50.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $31.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $26.00; Standard Electric: $31.00; Standard Nonelectric:...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$31.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$22.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 62 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

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Provider

231-326-4700

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Platte River Campground

5685 Lake Michigan Road

Nearby places

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

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.

Weather at Platte River Campground

Current alerts(4)

Entrance Fees - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore charges a variety of entrance fees, depending on how a visitor arrives at the park. All visitors must have an entrance pass (separate from camping fees).
The Ironman Michigan triathlon will be taking place Sunday, September 20, 2026. The bike course takes place on M-22 and will have significant impact on local traffic.Â M-22 will be closed from 8:30 am to approximately 2 pm between the City of Frankfort and Esch Road.
To avoid road closures, departing campers should exit by 8:30 am via Deadstream Road, Platte Road, or M-22 northbound. Southbound M-22 will be closed.
Violation of terms may result in permit suspension, revocation and/or issuance of a citation by law enforcement.

Best Time to Camp at Platte River Campground

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the region's signature draw: brilliant hardwood color against the backdrop of perched dunes and calm Lake Michigan, with comfortable daytime temps in the 50s–60s°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F. Hiking, fall bird migration viewing, paddling the Platte River, and photography are at their peak while crowds thin after Labor Day, making it easier to score campsites and enjoy quieter beaches. Expect fewer mosquitoes and excellent fishing (salmon/steelhead runs), though some services Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in MI

Fall called best season for brilliant hardwood color and calm Lake Michigan conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Platte River Campground

Platte River Campground sits within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Honor, offering National Park Service–managed tent and RV sites with electric hookups and full amenities. Campers use the grounds as a base for exploring the lakeshore's dunes, trails, and Lake Michigan beaches, plus paddling the Platte River. The campground operates seasonally with strict camper-only access and enforced reservation policies.

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

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the region's signature draw: brilliant hardwood color against the backdrop of perched dunes and calm Lake Michigan, with comfortable daytime temps in the 50s–60s°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F. Hiking, fall bird migration viewing, paddling the Platte River, and photography are at their peak while crowds thin after Labor Day, making it easier to score campsites and enjoy quieter beaches. Expect fewer mosquitoes and excellent fishing (salmon/steelhead runs), though some services Peak months: September, October, June, July Avoid: January, February

Elevation653 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryGlaciers carved this landscape into a mosaic of hardwood and conifer forests, reclaimed meadows, bogs, and wetlands. The Platte River cuts through before reaching Lake Michigan, where perched dunes rise above the shoreline. Hidden lakes and streams thread through the terrain at 653 feet elevation. Loop 4 and the walk-in areas are heavily wooded. Other sections are more open.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style accommodations available within the campground as it caters to traditional camping setups, including RV and tent sites.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger programs are offered, including Junior Ranger activities for children, and evening presentations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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

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

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.

Best CampsitesWalk-in sites B5 and C3 get high marks for privacy. Sites 119 and 216 in Loop 1 are noted for space. Loop 4 provides the most seclusion with heavy tree cover.

Need help booking Platte River Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Platte River Campground is a popular and well-maintained facility within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offering various site types, including electric, non-electric, walk-in, and group sites. Amenities include restrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, picnic tables, and campfire rings at each site. The campground is close to the Platte River and Lake Michigan beaches, providing access to water activities and hiking trails.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Platte River Campground

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.

Hiking5.0/5Top 2% in Michigan

Access to Platte Plains 25+ miles of trails; Railroad Grade leads directly from campground.

Beach activities5.0/5Top 3% in Michigan

Nearby Lake Michigan beaches are praised; perched dunes and beachcombing highlight.

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing popular, especially salmon runs; easy access to rivers and Lake Michigan.

Swimming4.0/5

Lake Michigan beaches within walking distance; beaches praised for swimming.

Biking4.0/5Top 11% in Michigan

Heritage Trail nearby and praised as a favorite destination for cyclists.

Boating4.0/5

Kayak/canoe access on the Platte River; convenient launch spots noted.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Water Sports4.0/5

Paddling the Platte River is a common activity; canoe/kayak access available.

Winter Activities2.0/5

Cultural and Educational Programs

Signature experiences

Photography5.0/5Perched dunes, beaches, fall color and wildlife provide outstanding photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyPermit Conditions: 1. Campers must check-in at the campground office immediately upon arrival. 2. Campers must notify the campground at 231-326-4700 ext. 5029 if they will not arrive within 24 hours of the check-in time or their reservation will be cancelled; they will be charged the first night's camping fee plus a $20 no show fee. 3. Check-in time is 2 pm Check-out time is noon. 4. Camping is permitted only in designated areas, on the established tent pads, and paved parking pads. All vehicles

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 pm to 6 am

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

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

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 1306 reviews

What Campers Love

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

Based on 1306 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 1306 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 1306 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 1306 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 1306 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 1306 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 1306 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some areas like beaches have restrictions during nesting seasons for endangered birds.

Based on 1306 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Platte River Campground

$22.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $50.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $31.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $26.00; Standard Electric: $31.00; Standard Nonelectric:...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$31.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$22.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

This campground gets 62 cancellations/wk on average — set an alert, we'll notify you instantly.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

231-326-4700

Go if

you want privacy and scenery from a walk-in Loop 4 site, or you're camping with kids and want to stay close to bathrooms

Skip if

you're chasing a quiet, secluded wilderness feel, since this is one of the park's busiest and most popular campgrounds

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Campgrounds

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Platte River Campground

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 98% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 980 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A+.Campsites
Grade A.Cleanliness
Grade A.Facilities

Watch-outs

Grade D.Belonging
Grade C+.Booking
Grade C+.Scenery

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Michigan grades overall

About Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Context for the broader area surrounding Platte River Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

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.

Directions

From the south (Detroit or Chicago areas) :Take US-31, US-131, US-27 to M-115 & M-37, I-75 and M-72 North to Traverse City, then west on M-72 to the Village of Empire. You will see the visitor center as you enter Empire on your right. You may also get to Empire from the south via US-31 to Ludington and then north to Manistee. You can follow either US-31 or M-22 from north of Manistee. From the north (Michigan's Upper Peninsula), take I-75 to Grayling and follow M-72 to Traverse City or take US-31 south

Platte River Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Platte River Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Platte River Campground

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Platte River Campground

Planning Tips

About Platte River Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Platte River Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Platte River Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Nearby alternatives

White Pine Backcountry Campground Permits

D.H. Day Campground

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How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Directions

Ask Camp Sage about Platte River Campground

Current alerts(4)

Best Time to Camp at Platte River Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Platte River Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Platte River Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Nearby alternatives

White Pine Backcountry Campground Permits

D.H. Day Campground

Interlochen Duck Lake Campground