Best Tent Camping near Leland, MI

Tent campers seeking island solitude can access multiple backcountry campgrounds near Leland, Michigan via the ferry service that departs from the Leland harbor. South Manitou Island offers three distinct tent campgrounds – Bay, Popple, and Weather Station – while North Manitou Island features both designated and dispersed backcountry tent camping options. Both islands are part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, providing primitive camping experiences completely separated from mainland development.

Most island tent sites require substantial planning as they can only be reached by ferry and then on foot. Water sources vary significantly between campgrounds – some sites near the village areas offer potable water access, while others require campers to filter water directly from Lake Michigan. Vault toilets are available but limited in number and quality. A recent review noted, "The toilets in the village are in better condition than the toilets in the campground itself." Fire regulations differ between islands and specific campgrounds, with fires completely prohibited in some areas and permitted only in designated fire rings in others. Campers should pack extra food and supplies, as ferry service can be canceled due to adverse weather conditions.

Island tent sites provide rare backcountry isolation despite being relatively close to mainland Michigan. Campsites on the bluffs at Weather Station Campground offer panoramic views of Lake Michigan, with one visitor commenting that "proximity to the edge of the dune and the lake also helped with a breeze that kept mosquitoes to a minimum." The varying terrain includes forests, sandy beaches, dunes, and historic ruins throughout both islands. Backcountry tent campers particularly value the lack of motorized vehicles and limited number of fellow campers, especially during weekdays and shoulder seasons. Wildlife sightings are common, ranging from chipmunks and deer to nesting bald eagles on Power Island, another tent camping option accessible only by boat from nearby harbors.

Best Tent Sites Near Leland, Michigan (27)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Leland, MI

701 Reviews of 27 Leland Campgrounds


  • Amanda L.
    Aug. 7, 2018

    D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Sleeping Bear Bliss

    Quiet campground with sites quite close to one another. This campground butts up to the heritage trail, which is 20 miles of hiking, biking, walking, or skiing fun. A short walk will get you to Lake Michigan and it’s sandy beach. Each site has a nice picnic table, a designated tent pad (if it’s a tent site) and a fire ring with a grill top. Firewood is available on site for $5/bundle, vault toilets are also available. No shower facilities. Lots and lots of poison ivy! Stay on the paths!! And tIcks! Stay in trails and out of tall grass or weeds. The tent pad is very compacted ground, definitely need a hammer or decent sized rock to pound in the tent stakes, and also definitely bring a sleeping pad or air mat. Tent sites are only $20/night, but you also need a National Park Pass, which is $20/1 week or $40/ 1 year, so be aware of that! Stayed at site 88, seemed to be a slightly more “roomy” site than others, as there were no neighbors behind us. PLUS thIs Is located very near to thw sleepIng bear dunes and natIonal lake shore!

  • Amanda L.
    Aug. 9, 2018

    D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Perfect Proximity

    This campground is in this system ( the Dyrt) like 3 times under similar names, and I just want to be sure you all know how great it is! This is a first-come-first-served campground, so get there earlier in the day if you want a site, even on a weekday. There are rustic bathrooms, no flushing, no sink, nothing. No showers available here, either. However, it is so close to Glen Haven, Glen Arbor, Empire, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The location is truly fabulous. You are able to take a short walk down to Lake Michigan from your site. The sites are hard packed ground, dirt, rocks...so bring a mallet or hammer to pound in your tent stakes! I would also advise a sleeping pad or air mat for this same reason. The tent pads are nice and level though, which is awesome. It rained quite a bit over night when I stayed, so I’m thankful for the level ground. There is LOTS of poison ivy on location, so stay on the trails!!! Sites were only $20/night but you also need a National park pass which is $20/week or $40/year, so be mindful of that. This is also an “Active Black Bear Site,” so everything with a scent—clothes, candles, etc., must be stored in your vehicle. No, we did not see any bears while we were there. Everyone was very friendly, and the campground was so much more quiet than anticipated. It was very peaceful and serene. Firewood is available for purchase on site through a wood vending machine basically, so have $5 bills on hand. Stayed at site #88

  • Ash S.
    May. 15, 2022

    Leelanau State Park Campground

    Very peaceful lakeside campground

    No hookups, No problem! Very quiet campground on the Shores of Lake Michigan. Sites are large and private with large fire rings and picnic tables. Vault toilets only but they are kept very clean.

  • Hilary S.
    Jul. 24, 2022

    Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Walk-in sites practically on top of each other

    Pros: Designated dish-washing sink, as well as shower/bathroom building for walk-in sites specifically. Short 0.8 mile hike from camp to Lake Michigan. Bear boxes are shared between only two adjacent campsites, and are large. 

    Cons: Walk-in sites have essentially no privacy and are much less secluded than other walk-in sites where I have stayed at other parks. I was at site A003, which abutted adjacent A-loop sites as well as B-loop sites. The other sites were visible, and folks at a neighboring site were playing music late into the night.

  • Gemma G.
    Apr. 24, 2019

    Scheck's Place State Forest Campground

    Schecks Place-TRAIL CAMP enjoy privacy, the river, horse trails

    There are 2 sections of Schecks Place. One is a campground with picnic tables and site numbers.

    The other is the trail camp. You drop your money in the box pick a spot of as much space as you want (there is hardly ever a lot of people).

    The last 2 times we went there was maybe one or two people with their horses or just passing thru.

    There are bathrooms and a well for water. No showers No electric.

    The river runs by and is awesome to go tubing down.

    There are trails that go through so if you are an equestrian this spot is perfect.

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2023

    D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Small Sites h

    DH Bear. Sept 2023 (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer). I rate based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience w at least some camp site privacy. Overall Rating: 3.75 Price 2023: Usage during visit: Very full Site Privacy: Most sites are not real great.
    Site Spacing: Close Site surface: Gravel Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Fine Road Noise: Bone Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: No. Platt River CG has electricity. Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: Yes Generators: Be careful. Some sites do not allow generators. The more private sites are in the No-generator loop . Bathroom: Yes Showers: No Setting: Forest Weather: Very nice Bugs: Not bad Solar: Most sites do not offer enough sunlight .

  • A
    Sep. 11, 2021

    D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Great spots, close to beach

    Great campsite with spacious sites not too close to each other. Sites are close to the beach (3-5 min walk). Vault toilets are to be expected. Quiet at night when I was there. Easy access to hiking trails and Glen Arbor. Would stay again! $20 for basic tent site (non-electric).

  • R
    Jul. 24, 2022

    D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    D H Day Campground

    Enjoyed the D H Day Campground. Really liked the elevated boxes for tent placement and the site was clean. Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash. Make sure you have bug spray. Great proximity to Glen Arbor and Empire. Short drive to the dunes for hiking and cannot over recommend Empire Beach to watch a sunset.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2021

    Bay Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Another great island to explore!

    This campground is near the lake and about a mile from the ranger station. Less traveled place and so much to explore. BEAUTIFUL hiking!

    No showers, no water (bring filtration equipment), and only vault toilets. Campsites feel secluded and each has a fire pit. The lighthouse and giant cedars are all within easy walking distance.


Guide to Leland

Tent camping near Leland, Michigan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tent campers should check out South Manitou Island Group

  • The South Manitou Island Group features reservable sites with access to drinking water and firewood, making it a convenient choice for campers.
  • Campers can enjoy the rustic experience of hiking in and setting up tents in a serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle.
  • With the option to hike to scenic overlooks, this campground provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding islands.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Weather Station Campground

  • The Weather Station Campground offers designated sites with shared fire pits and access to pit toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay in the backcountry.
  • Campers can filter water from Lake Michigan, allowing for a more sustainable camping experience while enjoying the beautiful sandy bluffs.
  • The campground's proximity to the lake provides easy access for swimming and enjoying the refreshing waters.

Tent campers like these nearby activities on North Manitou Island

  • At the North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites, visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that lead to historical sites and stunning natural landscapes.
  • Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the great smallmouth bass fishing opportunities at Lake Manitou, located in the center of the island.
  • Campers can immerse themselves in the island's rich history by visiting the old village and cemetery, adding a unique cultural experience to their outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for tent camping in Leland, Michigan?

Summer (June through August) is the prime season for tent camping near Leland, offering warm temperatures ideal for enjoying Lake Michigan. Weather Station Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on South Manitou Island provides picturesque views during this peak season. Early fall (September) brings fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, while still maintaining accessibility to most campgrounds. Mid-July can be buggy at island sites like South Manitou Island Group. For kayaking to remote sites, early morning departures are recommended, especially if heading to locations like Power Island County Park. Most island campgrounds are inaccessible during winter months due to ferry service limitations.

Where are the best tent camping sites near Leland, Michigan?

The Leland area offers excellent tent camping opportunities within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Village Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on North Manitou Island is accessible via a 40-minute ferry ride from Leland and features secluded sites with community fire rings. For a mainland option, White Pine Backcountry Camp — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is just a 1.5-mile hike on an easy sandy trail from Lake Michigan, offering six sites with pit toilets. Other notable options include Power Island County Park in Grand Traverse Bay and Pinney Bridge, which requires a short hike to access its primitive sites.

What amenities are available at campgrounds in Leland, MI?

Campgrounds near Leland offer varying levels of amenities. Bay Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides fire pits at each site but has no showers, no potable water (bring filtration equipment), and only vault toilets. On North Manitou Island, the North Manitou Island Backcountry Campsites are primitive, but campers staying at Village Campground can access potable water in the nearby village area. South Manitou Island has drinking water available but requires hiking from campsites to retrieve it. Most island campgrounds feature fire rings, vault toilets, and tent pads, but lack electricity, showers, and cell service. Be prepared for primitive conditions, especially at remote sites.