RV sites near Sleeping Bear Dunes vary from basic partial hookup options to luxury concrete pad sites with full amenities. Located on Michigan's northwestern Lower Peninsula, the Sleeping Bear Dunes area features terrain ranging from forested hills to sandy lakefront, with elevations up to 450 feet at some dune peaks. Summer high temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with occasional rainfall and cooler nights requiring light jackets.
What to do
Kayaking on Bass Lake: Bass Lake in Elk Rapids offers a calm water experience for fishing and paddling. Honcho Rest Campground provides direct lake access. "Bass Lake which is great for a quick paddle around, fishing, etc., but if you are seeking larger bodies of water, the Elk Rapids Marina on Grand Traverse Bay and Elk Lake are just a couple miles away," notes reviewer Shari G.
Winery tours: The Leelanau Peninsula wine region features numerous vineyards within short driving distances of camping areas. "The campground is in the heart of wine country, with about 6 vineyards/wineries within 15-20 minutes (all with tasting rooms)," explains a Wild Cherry RV Resort visitor.
Pipe organ concerts: A unique activity offered during summer months near Lake Leelanau RV Park. "The owner of the RV park is a pipe organ enthusiast and opens his home throughout the summer months for concerts," shares reviewer Shari G., who adds "If you have never been to a pipe organ concert, you must go at least once in your life."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at certain campgrounds. "Shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient," writes Kyle K. about Indigo Bluffs RV Park.
Clean facilities: Washroom cleanliness receives consistent praise. "The bathroom here is VERY clean and updated - much nicer than most campgrounds," notes Allison H. about Lake Leelanau RV Park. Similarly, at Kampvilla Park, Amy Y. mentions "This campground has very clean bathrooms, a pool, park to play and close proximity to lots of things to do."
Family activities: Organized recreational options keep children engaged. "There is an indoor pool & game room. There are activities all the time. Bingo every weekend," reports Kathy C. about Timber Ridge RV Resort. Another campground offers "all the toys to play in sand, basketballs, volleyballs and such sitting out for all the kids to play with."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most RV parks in the region operate from May through October, with limited year-round options. Lake Leelanau RV Park specifically notes a season "May 1 to Oct 31" while Wild Cherry RV Resort operates "May 1 to October 31."
Site restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific RV type limitations. Traverse Bay RV Resort notes "The park is limited to Class A, Fifth Wheels and Class C only. This park is dominated by big, very nice class A's."
Amenity variations: Bathroom facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Wild Cherry RV Resort has limited facilities according to Nancy W.: "While most RV campgrounds have centralized bathrooms with flush toilets, sinks, and showers, this one is lacking those amenities." Other campgrounds feature modern bathrooms with unique layouts: "There is a great area to hang clothes and store your toiletries in the shower stall."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor options for rainy days: Look for campgrounds with covered recreation spaces. Amy Y. appreciates that at Kampvilla Park, "The indoor pavilion area is great for rainy days. There are board games and puzzles to do. Plus ping pong and foosball!"
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer specialized play areas. "There is a small playground with a climbing wall," notes Shari G. about one location, while Timber Ridge RV Resort receives praise for its "jumping pillow, dodgeball, bike trails, ATV trails, crafts, parades, etc. It's great for the active family, particularly those with elementary & middle school age kids."
Seasonal crowds: Expect busier conditions during peak summer months. "This is a very large campground that is usually full during the summer," warns Allison H., adding that "it can be rather loud at times." For quieter experiences, consider shoulder seasons like early May or late September.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Pay attention to pad types when booking. "Our site was a pull-in that faced a large pond on a corner that overlooked a four-acre lake," explains Nancy W. about Wild Cherry RV Resort. Manton Trails RV Park offers "Plenty of pull-through sites and lots of grass," according to Richard.
Hookup placement: Check utility locations when selecting sites. "The water, sewer, and electric were all placed appropriately in the site so no extended hoses were needed," notes one reviewer, while another mentions sewer challenges: "Our site was a full hookup but had one small issue where the drain dump was slightly uphill from the camper, so we had to work with the drain hose to empty tanks."
Internet access: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "There is free WiFi. They do not offer Cable TV but there are many local channels," reports one camper, while another notes "Internet worked well using our hotspots, but, like all campgrounds, if you like being 'in the woods;' internet is always a challenge."
