1 / 8

South Manitou Island - the Bay Campground

In
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
·
100%
·
1 review
28 sites · RV, Tent

Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore includes two large islands in Lake Michigan--North and South Manitou Islands.

Choose South Manitou to explore the island village and lighthouse or take a motor tour of the farming district.

At South Manitou - Bay Campground (view campground map here), sites are tent-only. Once you’re settled in, soak in the sights Lake Michigan from the bluffs on the south side of the island. Sites are well secluded and have fire pits for open fires (hell ya!). Follow the wooded trail past the lighthouse about 1.3 miles to the campground, and by George, water is even provided at the campground.

What this place offers
Campfire allowed
No pets allowed
No showers
No toilets
Potable water
No picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups
28 sitesRV, Tent

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

  • Camp Moonshadow
  • Camp Moonshadow
  • Camp Moonshadow
99%
(513)

Camp Moonshadow

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI
Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 ft.- 20 Amp service Only!!! WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nightly up to 3 nites The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing. The farm house was built in 1907. It has been remodeled with a second story added. Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's. The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp. The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails. Our valley is known for incredible stargazing. Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. Electricity and water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
  • Tent site #2
  • Find the entrance to camp off our the farm's driveway marked by the "Welcome to Camp" sign
  • Tent site #2
99%
(310)

Jackson Station Leelanau

4 sites · Tents32 acres · Maple City, MI
Our sites accomodate 2 adults & their minors, with 1-2 vehicles at each site's entrance. If you're traveling with more than 2 adults please book more than one site. Enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience in beautiful Leelanau County via Agritourism at Jackson Station! Our property has 4 private tent sites situated among a dense pine forest on our small-scale farm.  We're located between the two popular vacation destinations of Glen Arbor and Leland, MI - both a short scenic drive in either direction. The peninsula has tons of recreation: hiking, biking, beaches, boating, fishing, dining, shopping, wine tasting, and visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes! Our farm produces pastured, all natural meat, including pork, beef, goat and fresh eggs/seasonal veggies. See the hens roaming, cows and goats grazing in the fenced-in pasture. A variety of cuts of meat from our freezers are available for sale or get a tour of the farm ~ Just ask! You may simply enjoy the scene at your leisure. SITE DETAILS: Each camp site has woodchips, gravel surrounding a bonfire ring, a clothesline and neatly stacked firewood for sale. Our sites accomodate 2 adults and their minors. We recommend that larger groups or multiple adults book more than one site next to each other (sites 1 and 2 or 2 and 3 are good for this). Quiet hours are enforced between 10pm-7am. This is our home and farm, not a campground, please think of staying here that way. A short walk from camp, you'll find access to a water pump for delicious drinking water straight from our well, so that you may fill containers of water or utilize for rinsing.  Our land borders the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You'll be just a few miles from access to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. Relax in the sand, hunt for rocks, hike a trail, kayak or paddle-board and watch an epic sunset.  School Lake, known for its fishing from non-motorized boats or a quiet place to paddle. 2 Miles away, access the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a non-motorized 27 mile groomed trail that follows the scenic M-22 from our location all the way to Empire, MI. 2.8 miles from our camp, you'll find a Mountain Bikers paradise at Palmer Woods Forest Preserve, with various hiking trails and a 6 mile mountain bike trail.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Outside the shower is a dishwashing station with everything you could need
  • Entrance sign along the road
  • Outside the shower is a dishwashing station with everything you could need
100%
(332)

Llama Meadows Eco Farm BaseCamp

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Benzonia, MI
Llama Meadows Farm is a sixteen acre organic fruit and vegetable farm. Located in Beautiful Benzie Country, in Northwestern Lower Michigan. We are one mile south of Crystal Lake and six miles east of Lake Michigan. Our-house is super insulated and passive solar. We had llamas for their wool and manure. We retired from raising llamas, we had 12 they got old and moved on. We have around 50 fruit trees. The fruit we grow includes apples, pears, figs and paw paws. We also grow grapes, and kiwis, we also put in filberts, walnuts and pecans. We have a beautiful labyrinth peace garden. We don't want barbecue pits on the ground it burns the grass Please check Extras for Pet fees, Campfire Wood and Electric.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • Parking area next to camp.
  • The road up to the camp site with "Conservation Property" sign on the tree on the left.
  • Parking area next to camp.
97%
(105)

Echo Valley Forest

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Empire, MI
Echo Valley Forest Reserve is a backcountry site located deep within the forest near the center of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, ten minutes from Empire Beach, Glen Haven, and Glen Arbor. The camp site is completely private, with only party rented to at a time. It is in the center of a 40-acre parcel, surrounded by thousands of acres of National Lakeshore and private forested land. Access is off of a rough seasonal two-track but most 2-wheel drive cars are fine. Watch out for rocks. There are solar lights, a pit toilet, a fire ring, and a ~8x8' deck. There is room for 4 cars, and as many tents as you can set up. We have 4 rules: 1) Leave no trace. Do not leave garbage at camp. DO NOT BURN garbage, people cook in that pit. 2) NO cutting into the live trees. You will get a 0-star review, 100% of the time. 3) Keep cars on the gravel driveway. 4) Put out all fires completely (COLD) and respect any Burn Bans that may be active at the time of your stay. These are issued by the fire department, not me.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Secluded River Ridge Campsite
  • Campsite surrounded by woods great for tents and/or RV.
  • Secluded River Ridge Campsite
97%
(16)

Secluded River Ridge Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Crystal Mountain, MI
5 private acres on the Betsie River. 3 miles to Crystal Mountain. You can walk through the woods to get to the river. Fish from shore or find several spots to get into the river to fish. Close to Iron Fish Distillery. 20 minutes to many Lake Michigan beaches. There is a flat yard for tents and a gravel pad for an RV. 30 amp electrical hookup and water spigot available. You have the spot to yourself. You can see a family cottage through the woods, but it is about 80 yds away.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Timberline Campground
  • Timberline Campground
  • Timberline Campground
100%
(10)

Timberline Campground

101 sites · Lodging, RVs10 acres · Benzonia, MI
On the cusp of Crystal Lake, where the Betsie River flows, your Timberline Campground awaits in the place where the heart of the camper glows. The go-to base camp for the expert angler and avid boater, we’re famous for trout and salmon fishing. First-time campers and seasoned explorers drop in as part of a longer Michigan expedition or stay all season. We’re a large campground and spacious, with about every conceivable configuration of RV site you can imagine. The accommodations are ample, and we’re very strategic in locating the conveniences, close and easy to get to, whether you’re driving your home, pulling it or pitching it. Our RV sites have water, electric and sewer with pull-throughs, back-ins, and buddy back-ins with 30/50-amp electric service options. We have primitive sites for tenting and a rentable cabin for those who don’t want to rough it. Whatever your camping style, you’ll have easy access to all the good stuff. Our emphasis is on providing all the recreation you could want while you’re at the campgrounds. In fact, plenty of our guests spend their vacations in our heated pools, jamming on the basketball court and hiking around the nearby Michigan beauty. With lots of storage available for boats and RVs, Timberline is the perfect home base for the whole season.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$74
 / night
  • Bear Woods Resort
  • Bear Woods Resort
  • Bear Woods Resort
100%
(6)

Bear Woods Resort

9 sites · Lodging, RVs65 acres · Bear Lake, MI
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan, our enchanting 65-acre property offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature's beauty. Situated amidst rolling hills and woods, our property serves as a basecamp for your Northern Michigan adventure. From here, you'll find yourself conveniently positioned to explore all the region's hotspots, including the pristine Lake Michigan beaches, a round of golf at the acclaimed Acadia course, the iconic M22 drive, and visits to charming cities such as Frankfort, Traverse City, and Bear Lake. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, golfer, beach lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, our property offers the perfect starting point for your daily excursions. For those who prefer the comforts of home on the road, we offer three spacious RV full hook-up sites, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. These sites provide all the essential amenities, including water, electricity, and sewer connections, making it convenient for RV enthusiasts to relax and recharge. Additionally, we offer a unique glamping experience with canvas tents that allow you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the comforts of a cozy retreat. As the sun sets, gather around a campfire, stargaze under the vast Michigan sky, and savor the tranquility of our secluded haven. Whether you're embarking on a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends and family, or a solo retreat, our 65-acre property welcomes you to experience the best of Northern Michigan.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Winding River Campground
  • Winding River Campground
  • Winding River Campground
91%
(22)

Winding River Campground

70 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Benzonia, MI
Majestic River Centric Campground is nestled on 11 acres of land overlooking the Betsie River. We are right off of US-31 before downtown Beulah. We are known as a fishing destination and many locals have said our 1900ft of frontage on the Betsie has the best fishing holes of any stretch from Homestead Dam to Grace Road. We have over 100+ camping sites with approx. 75 sites available for daily, weekly, and monthly rentals with a variety of stay options that meet your needs including RV rentals, tenting and car camping sites, river sites, highland sites close to the pool and camper amenities, glamping options, two cabin rentals, and one frame rental. Weekly and monthly activities include live music, food trucks, fishing lessons, tap takeovers, electric bikes, kayak rentals, hay rides, farm animals, crocket/horseshoe/bags tournaments and much more. Make your next Northern Michigan Visit HERE at Winding River Campground! For seasonal rates please call our main office and our staff can provide you with information. Open Dates: March 16 to November 1
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
  • Suttons Bay Bikes has Bike, kayak and SUP rentals. 5 miles from here. The bike trail is less than a mile in either direction of us.
  • Site #2
  • Suttons Bay Bikes has Bike, kayak and SUP rentals. 5 miles from here. The bike trail is less than a mile in either direction of us.
100%
(131)

Elm Valley

2 sites · RVs20 acres · Suttons Bay, MI
I am 4th generation to live on our property. we are very lucky to have been able to keep 20 acres where I grew up. We are surrounded by Cherry orchards and vineyards. There are 4 wineries within a mile and the bike trail in half a mile away Boat launch on Lake Leelanau 3 miles away A boat launch on Grand Traverse Bay is 1/2 a mile awayLearn more about this land:We have a large hard pack gravel area surrounded by rolling hills and lots of trees. Our house is near by with trees in between. There is a good 60 ft between campers and each site has water and 30 amp. Their own fire pit. We are half a mile from the Leelanau Trail. 10 miles into Traverse city. 5 miles to Suttons Bay
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$58
 / night
  • Deer Run Retreat
  • Deer Run Retreat
  • Deer Run Retreat
100%
(6)

Deer Run Retreat

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Manistee, MI
Escape the hustle and bustle at Deer Run Retreat, a haven for those seeking tranquility and new memories in the embrace of nature. Here, you can wake up to the sight of deer grazing in the pasture and spend your evenings by the fireplace, gazing up at a sky adorned with countless stars. Our retreat offers a serene environment to unwind and relax, providing a peaceful getaway from the demands of everyday life. Whether you're drawn to the Little River Casino, historic downtown Manistee, or the array of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, tubing, and hiking, you'll find something for everyone in the surrounding area. We provide two gravel pads with full hook-ups for RVs and an additional grassy area with electric and water hook-ups. For those without their camper, we offer the option to rent a beautiful camper on-site. Deer Run Retreat is designed to be family-friendly, creating the perfect backdrop for building lasting memories with your loved ones. Come and rejuvenate at Deer Run Retreat, where the beauty of nature meets the comfort of a welcoming retreat. We can't wait to host your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • Up a Creek in Maple City Campsite
  • Up a Creek in Maple City Campsite
  • Up a Creek in Maple City Campsite
Booked 2 times

Up a Creek in Maple City Campsite

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Maple City, MI
2.73 acres along Shetland Creek in nature. Quiet area to get away from the hustle and bustle. Seated between Little Traverse Lake and Lime Lake, both are a short bike ride away. Near beautiful Good Harbor Bay of Lake Michigan. You'll have a flat, level plot of land to camp at. there is parking too for parking a camper. Enjoy the creek, the sounds of nature, the patio for taking a rest, and the wildlife passing through! Destinations within walking/biking distance: -Market 22 (4.7* Restaurant) -Little Traverse Lake Park & Boat Launch -Teichner Preserve: The Leelanau Conservancy (Nature Preserve) Pat's Preserve at Lime Lake (hiking area) A short 5 minute drive to Maple City: -Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse (4.8* restaurant) -Mobil Gas Station and M C Short Stop Convenience Store -Pegtown Station (4.7* Pizza Restaurant) -United States Postal Service Other nearby sights to see: -Traverse City (30 minute drive) -Cherry Capital Airport (40 minute drive) -Glen Arbor (12 minute drive) -Sleeping bear national park which has 35 Miles of pristine Lake Michigan -Lakeshore beaches (19 minute drive) -Suttons bay (21 minute drive)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$21.60
 / night
  • Site
  • Camp David
  • Site
99%
(70)

Camp David

12 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Traverse City, MI
We built our home 30 years ago on 8 acres of hay field. Everything you see on our property was put here by us!! We have had dogs, a couple of horses, cats of course and chickens too. The horses, dogs and chickens are gone but we still have cats...and we have a pond off our deck with about 50 goldfish and a couple dozen frogs!! Our kids are all grown and we are left wondering what is next. For the past 12 years or so we have had at least one or two camp outs a year on our property with just friends. Then we started thinking "why not invite others?" We know how difficult it can be to get camping reservations in the area....then I bumped into a Hipcamp Host who told me about this.... so here we are! We are animal and nature lovers and our gardens are here for you to enjoy. We'd love to give you a tour and tell you all about every plant if you are interested. Or we will ignore you and let you do your own thing in our 'backyard'! We offer rustic boondocks camping or set up nearer to our buildings and we can supply you with power....110, 30 and 50 available for a small extra charge Welcome to Traverse City and welcome to Camp David!! I have a Facebook page with lots of fun and interesting things to do and see as well as great restaurant recommendations for Traverse City and beyond, on my travel page...Towhead Travels....on Facebook. Please look me up! ******NEW IN 2023****** We have an outhouse on site!! Firewood (oak) is available to purchase when you get here. (all campsites will be provided with a fire ring no charge) https://m.facebook.com/100057592452231/
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

More to explore nearby

100%
6 ratings · 1 review
R
Ryka O.
8 years on Hipcamp
November 2016
South Manitou Island is a great place to camp in the backcountry! You have to take a ferry to get to the island and once you arrive you must race to your desired campsite. It's first come first serve so be ready to run! We went in July of 2016 and had great weather, it was sunny and hot everyday and made jumping in the cool lake absolutely refreshing. We hiked around the whole island, making pit stops at the lighthouse, visitors center, and the shipwreck. The whole trip I would have received a perfect 10/10 for me if it wasn't for the mosquitoes. The mosquitoes were pretty bad this year. Once the sun set the buzzing grew louder. I'll pack a face net next time!
LocationSouth Manitou Island - the Bay Campground, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, United States
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
No pets allowed
No showers
No toilets
Potable water
No picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups

Other campgrounds in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Platte River Campground
100%
(8)

Platte River Campground

122 sites · RVs, Tents In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
D.H. Day Group Campground
100%
(4)

D.H. Day Group Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
South Manitou Island Group Campground

South Manitou Island Group Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
North Manitou Island Group
100%
(3)

North Manitou Island Group

1 site In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
South Manitou Island - the Weather Station Campground
100%
(3)

South Manitou Island - the Weather Station Campground

23 sites In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
South Manitou Island - the Popple Campground
100%
(6)

South Manitou Island - the Popple Campground

7 sites In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
North Manitou Island - Village Campground
100%
(17)

North Manitou Island - Village Campground

16 sites In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
D.H. Day Campground
100%
(6)

D.H. Day Campground

4 sites In Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Top parks near South Manitou Island - the Bay Campground

Duck Lake Public Reserved Land
Harrisville State Park
Clear Lake State Park MI
Hoffmaster State Park
Baraga State Park
Lakeport State Park
Algonac State Park
Burt Lake State Park

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Hipcamp campgrounds near me
Best RV camping near me
Hipcamps ready for RVs near me
Best glamping near me
Cabins, yurts, treehouses and more
  1. United States
    —
  2. Michigan
    —
  3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    —
  4. South Manitou Island - the Bay Campground

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Learn More
Hipcamp Hand
Hosting Standards
Hosting Standards
Hosting Standards
Learn More
Hipcamper Standards
Hipcamper Standards
Hipcamper Standards
Learn More

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly
Leave No Trace
National Weather Service

About us

CareersJournalGift CardsContactGeneral StoreHipcamper FAQBecome an Affiliate

Hosting

Becoming a HostIs my land a fit?InsuranceStandardsHosting FAQ

Camp Your Way™

Find the perfect site to match your camping style. Explore the largest collection of private campsites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping—including 120,000+ sites you won’t find anywhere else. Explore our maps, filter by your camping style, read real camper reviews, and book directly in our app. Hipcamp is the simplest way to find yourself outside under the stars.

Download the Hipcamp App

Terms of ServicePrivacy PolicySitemap
© 2025 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved.
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.