South Manitou Group Campground

3.83

23 reviews

SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE, 9922 FRONT STREET

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

571 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open May 23, 2025, t...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

South Manitou Group Campground

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The group camping fee is $30 per night during peak season (May 23 to September 12). Additional fees include a $25 entrance fee (valid for 1-7 days)...

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$30.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

231-326-4700

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What Campers Say

3.83

Mixed Reviews

Based on 23 reviews

16 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sites

"User experiences are mixed. Positive reviews frequently mention the island’s natural beauty, unique features like the lighthouse and shipwreck, and the sense of seclusion at the group campsites. Negative reviews highlight logistical challenges, including the need to backpack all gear and hike long distances, as well as dissatisfaction with the cleanliness of toilet facilities."

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Campground Map

SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE, 9922 FRONT STREET

South Manitou Group Campground

SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE, 9922 FRONT STREET

Driving directionsFrom Traverse City, Michigan, take M-22 to Sutton's Bay. Go west on M-204 from Sutton's Bay towards Leland. Turn north at the junction of M-22 and M-204 to Leland. Take the ferry from Leland to South Manitou Island.

The campground is only accessible by ferry or private boat, requiring a 1.5-hour ride. Campers must backpack their gear into the campground from the dock. Roads to Leland are paved, but accessibility depends on ferry schedules and conditions.

Nearby supplies

Supplies are limited to the Village area on South Manitou Island, which has water access. For other essentials, visitors must prepare in advance before taking the ferry.

Best Time to Camp at South Manitou Group Campground

Experience the island's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings perfect camping weather with warm, sun-drenched days reaching 70-90°F, ideal for beach exploration and hiking adventures. As darkness falls, temperatures drop to a comfortable 50-70°F, creating magical evenings around the campfire. Winter transforms the island into a pristine wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape from late November through March. During these quieter months, temperatures hover between 20-30°F during the day and dip to 10-20°F at night, offering a stark but beautiful contrast to the bustling summer season.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers warm, clear weather and beach/hiking access but reviewers note bugs at times.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Open into September with good vistas and fewer crowds; seasonal closure limits later fall use.

Spring(Mar-May)

2.0 / 5

Late spring opening (May 23) and variable weather; fewer services and possible bugs/conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Winter usability limited and official open season is May–Sept; not a winter destination.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - September 12, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23, 2025, to September 12, 2025. First come, first served dates from June 20-21, 2025.

About South Manitou Group Campground

Escape to South Manitou Group Campground, where adventure begins with a scenic ferry ride across Lake Michigan's crystal waters. This pristine tent-only backcountry haven welcomes groups seeking an authentic wilderness experience on a remote island paradise. Choose between the convenient Bay Campground near the ferry dock or venture 1.3 miles through enchanting forests to the secluded Weather Station Campground. With six thoughtfully dispersed group sites designed exclusively for parties of 9-20 people, you'll find the perfect balance of camaraderie and privacy beneath towering cedars and star-filled skies.

The campground offers tent-only backcountry group camping with no other accommodation types.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time on South Manitou Island, where maritime history and natural wonders intertwine. Stand in the shadow of the historic South Manitou Island Lighthouse, a beacon that has guided sailors through these waters for generations. Explore the haunting remains of the Francisco Morazan, a 1960 shipwreck that serves as a dramatic reminder of Lake Michigan's power. Wander through ancient cedar groves that have witnessed over five centuries of island history, and traverse sand dunes that hold both ecological treasures and cultural stories passed down through generations of visitors and inhabitants.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the island's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings perfect camping weather with warm, sun-drenched days reaching 70-90°F, ideal for beach exploration and hiking adventures. As darkness falls, temperatures drop to a comfortable 50-70°F, creating magical evenings around the campfire. Winter transforms the island into a pristine wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape from late November through March. During these quieter months, temperatures hover between 20-30°F during the day and dip to 10-20°F at night, offering a stark but beautiful contrast to the bustling summer season.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in South Manitou Island's breathtaking natural tapestry, where sandy shores meet pebbled beaches along Lake Michigan's pristine coastline. Marvel at towering sand dunes sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, creating an ever-changing landscape of curves and shadows. Lose yourself in the hushed majesty of old-growth cedar forests, where 500-year-old giants create cathedral-like groves filled with filtered sunlight and ancient wisdom. From dramatic clifftop vistas to secluded forest glens, every trail reveals new wonders in this ecologically rich island sanctuary floating in the vast blue expanse of Lake Michigan.

Geological RegionDiscover the geological marvel of South Manitou Island, a jewel in Lake Michigan's ancient island chain. Beneath your feet lies a fascinating foundation of tilted limestone layers, remnants of prehistoric seas now buried under millennia of glacial deposits. This unique geological heritage has created the island's distinctive landscape of rolling sandy soils, sculpted dune formations, and diverse pebble beaches. The island's crown jewels are its ancient white cedar forests, some trees dating back over 500 years, their gnarled roots gripping the limestone substrate while their emerald canopies tell the story of centuries of Great Lakes weather and ecological evolution.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time details are not explicitly provided.

Check-out

Check-out time details are not explicitly provided.

Stay Limit

14 nights per visit between Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Groups of 9 to 20 people.

Groups

Group sites are restricted to parties of 9-20 people and allow for up to 10 tents per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutGroup sites are secluded and spread out for privacy. Bay Campground is closer to the dock and beach, while Weather Station is located on Lake Michigan bluffs.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by contacting the Manitou Island Transit ferry service at (231) 256-9061.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited to June 20-21, 2025. Individual sites (not group sites) may be available year-round.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date for a $10 fee, plus any reservation fees. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds after the check-in date.

AccessibilityThe campground is only accessible by ferry or private boat. Campers must backpack gear into the sites, with distances ranging from less than a mile to 1.3 miles depending on the campground. No specific accessibility features are mentioned for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeGroup sites accommodate 9-20 people and allow for up to 10 tents per site.

PrivacyGroup sites are described as "secluded and set apart from one another.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesBay Campground is better for beach access; Weather Station Campground offers bluff views. Choose Bay for proximity to the ferry and Village area water access.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

South Manitou Group Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Campers can enjoy hiking, beachcombing, swimming, and exploring historical and natural features of the island. Highlights include the South Manitou Island Lighthouse, the 1960 shipwreck of the Francisco Morazanon, unique sand dune formations, and old-growth cedar forests.

HikingThe island offers hiking opportunities, including the 10-mile perimeter trail and day-long excursions to sand dunes and old-growth cedar forests. Reviews note that reaching water or specific attractions requires long hikes: "Be prepared to hike for miles for water & to see attractions if you’re not at Bay Campground."

SwimmingBoth Bay and Weather Station campgrounds offer beach access, allowing campers to swim and beachcomb. Beaches are described as pebble, and water shoes are recommended.

BoatingThe campground is only accessible by boat or ferry, though no recreational boating amenities are mentioned.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities are indirectly suggested through mentions of the island’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

Beach activitiesCampers can enjoy beachcombing along the 10 miles of pebble beaches. The beaches are not sandy, and water shoes are recommended.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsVisitors can take motorized tours to learn about the island’s history and visit the South Manitou Island Lighthouse during summer months.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsChipmunks frequent the area, posing food safety concerns. Campers must prepare for diverse weather conditions, including ferry delays. Pebble beaches require water shoes for comfort.

Fire PolicyOpen fires are allowed in fire pits provided at each site. Firewood must be purchased or collected in the park.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible in Empire, Michigan. Specific details on hospitals or police stations are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingNo on-site trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers need to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Water FeaturesBoth campgrounds have easy access to pebble beaches for swimming and beachcombing. Drinking water is only available in the Village area.

Weather at South Manitou Group Campground

Reviews

3.8

23 reviews

Mixed Reviews

South Manitou Group Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User experiences are mixed. Positive reviews frequently mention the island’s natural beauty, unique features like the lighthouse and shipwreck, and the sense of seclusion at the group campsites. Negative reviews highlight logistical challenges, including the need to backpack all gear and hike long distances, as well as dissatisfaction with the cleanliness of toilet facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

"Really beautiful place to camp"; "secluded and tucked away from other campsites"; "so many spectacular vistas"; "Kyle, our park ranger, made our trip to the island such a lovely adventure."

Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

"Port a potty’s are the worst I’ve ever seen"; "no transportation to the island"; "had to hike miles for water"; "bugs were really bad at times."

Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Pack light for long hikes; bring bug spray, candles, and nets for bugs; wear water shoes for pebble beaches; make ferry reservations in advance.

Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight warm weather and clear skies, but also note challenges with bugs. Winter usability is limited due to snow and cold conditions.

Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The port a potty’s are the worst I’ve ever seen. Once I closed the door I almost puked." "Be prepared to hike for miles for water & to see attractions." "Kyle, our park ranger, made our trip to the...

Based on 23 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site WG003 (Weather Station Group Sites) was praised for being quiet and spacious. Site BG002 (Bay Group Sites) received mixed reviews due to ferry-related issues.

Based on 23 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities, though the need to backpack gear and hike significant distances suggests limited accessibility.

Based on 23 reviews