Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Glen Arbor, MI
D.H. Day Campground's pet-friendly sites in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore accommodate both tent campers and RVs with easy access to Lake Michigan's shoreline. Located at 8010 W. Harbor Hwy in Glen Arbor, this rustic campground allows leashed pets throughout the camping area while maintaining quiet hours to minimize barking disturbances. Platte River Campground also welcomes pets at its tent and RV sites, providing electric hookups and sanitary dump facilities for longer stays. Both campgrounds require pets to remain on leashes no longer than six feet while on trails and in camping areas. Lake Leelanau RV Park extends pet allowances to its cabin accommodations, giving pet owners more lodging options during the May through October camping season. Betsie River Campsite offers the most diverse pet-friendly options, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and glamping accommodations from April through October. Sites tend to fill quickly during summer months, with most campers reporting the campground remains quiet despite being at capacity.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail passes directly through the D.H. Day Campground, offering an excellent 20-mile paved path for dog walking and exercise without venturing far from camp. Short boardwalks connect campground areas to Lake Michigan's sandy beaches where leashed dogs can enjoy water access during less crowded times. Poison ivy grows abundantly throughout the region, requiring careful monitoring of pets during walks to prevent exposure. The campground operates in an active black bear area, necessitating proper food storage and waste management to avoid attracting wildlife to pet food or waste. Clean pit toilets are available throughout the camping areas, though no shower facilities exist at D.H. Day. Nearby Glen Arbor provides pet supply access, with veterinary services available in Traverse City approximately 25 miles away. Campers should plan to arrive early during peak season, as most pet-friendly sites operate on a first-come basis and fill by mid-morning.
