D.H. Day Group Campground
4.45101 reviewsSLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE, 9922 FRONT STREET, EMPIRE, MI 49630, USA
D.H. Day Group Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season. Peak season rates are $40 per night, whereas off-season rates are $20. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore entrance passes are required for vehicles, costing $25 for 1-7 days or $45 for an annual pass.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, D.H. Day Group Campground offers an authentic tent-camping experience where nature takes center stage. This unique facility welcomes groups of 7-25 adventurers per site, providing the perfect basecamp for exploring pristine lakes, towering sand dunes, and fascinating historical landmarks. With its thoughtfully sparse vegetation, campers enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding wilderness while maintaining easy access to all the wonders this remarkable landscape has to offer.
D.H. Day Group Campground is designed exclusively for group tent camping, catering to parties of 7 to 25 people. The facility does not accommodate RVs, trailers, or individual campers.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a short journey to nearby Glen Haven, where the echoes of Michigan's maritime past come alive. This beautifully preserved village invites you to explore its authentic blacksmith shop, where the ring of hammer on anvil once shaped the tools of lake commerce. Browse the historic general store, still stocked as it might have been a century ago, and discover captivating tales of shipwrecks and lighthouse keepers at the maritime museum.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different masterpiece at D.H. Day. Summer arrives with warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and dune climbing, while winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland of snow-covered forests. Spring awakens the campground with wildflowers and migrating birds, and autumn sets the hardwood forests ablaze with spectacular colors. The moderate temperatures of spring and fall create perfect conditions for those seeking comfortable camping weather and smaller crowds.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic vistas where towering sand dunes meet ancient northern hardwood forests in a dramatic display of nature's artistry. The campground serves as your front-row seat to an ever-changing landscape of wetlands teeming with life, crystalline streams, and the majestic dunes that made this area famous. Keep your camera ready for frequent visits from white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through camp, and a symphony of songbirds. While black bears remain elusive and rarely seen, their presence adds a touch of wilderness mystique to your camping adventure.
Geological RegionExperience the raw power of geological time at this extraordinary campground within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Here, massive perched dunes rise dramatically above the sapphire waters of Lake Michigan, testament to thousands of years of wind and glacial artistry. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient story through its glacially carved valleys, pristine wetlands, meandering streams, and dense northern hardwood forests. This unique geological tapestry creates one of the most diverse and spectacular camping environments in the Great Lakes region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets and group sites but does not provide detailed information on other accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate groups of 7 to 25 people. Individual tent pads are approximately 15x15 feet, and gravel has been laid down on site surfaces.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is open with sparse vegetation, which provides limited privacy. Some users noted that campsites are closely spaced, making it possible to hear neighbors.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from poison ivy and close to water features for convenience and scenic views.
Best CampsitesGroup site 4 receives positive reviews for cleanliness and proximity to attractions.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites require a minimum of 7 people and can accommodate up to 25 people.
Groups
Group sites accommodate 7 to 25 people and are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Tent pads are gravel-based, and parking is restricted to designated areas to protect vegetation.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup sites are spaced to accommodate groups but may feel crowded depending on season.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 15 and closes October 15 each year. Reservations are not available from November 23 to April 27.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited to first-come-first-served during off-season from October 16 to November 23 and again from April 27 to May 14. Sites are not available without reservations during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations for group sites are subject to a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's camping fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeiture of the first night.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
D.H. Day Group Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities suitable for group campers. Activities focus on exploring the natural environment and include boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Glen Haven beach offers swimming and beachcombing, although no lifeguards are stationed. The proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes and the Crystal River adds to the diverse recreational options.
Hiking
The campground is close to the Dune Climb, where visitors can hike over sand dunes more than 200 feet high and enjoy panoramic views of Glen Lake and Lake Michigan. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is also accessible, providing opportunities for biking and walking.Swimming
Swimming is available at the Glen Haven beach, about a mile away from the campground. The beach is known for its clean and uncrowded environment. However, no lifeguards are on duty, and water shoes are recommended due to rocky areas.Biking
The nearby Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is ideal for biking, with well-maintained paths that connect to various park attractions like Glen Arbor and the Dune Climb.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are permitted on the nearby Lake Michigan. A boat ramp is located approximately six miles from the campground. Canoe and kayak rentals are available in Glen Harbor for paddling the Crystal River.Wildlife viewing
Visitors may spot deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species. Despite the park's name, bears are rarely sighted.Beach activities
The Glen Haven beach offers beachcombing, sunbathing, and swimming. Visitors have noted the serenity of the area, even during peak times.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed for the group campground, but the Sleeping Bear Dunes area is open year-round, potentially offering opportunities for snowshoeing or winter hiking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular on the nearby Crystal River. Rentals are available in the town of Glen Harbor.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Visitors can purchase firewood or collect dead wood within the park boundaries. External firewood must be approved by the lakeshore.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is abundant around campsites. Visitors should exercise caution. Wildlife such as raccoons may pose risks to food storage if left unattended.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include local police stations and ranger stations in Empire and Glen Arbor. For major emergencies, dial 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 15
Trash and recyclingTrash cans and recycling facilities are provided throughout the campground. Visitors are encouraged to dispose of garbage responsibly and avoid burning trash in the fire rings.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 1 mile from Glen Haven beach and close to Lake Michigan. Campground is surrounded by streams and wetlands.
Common complaintsUsers frequently note poison ivy presence and crowded site layouts. Issues with reservation system and late cancellations have also been highlighted.
HostHosts are noted to be helpful and friendly. Rangers provide educational talks and assistance.
Campground Map
SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE, 9922 FRONT STREET, EMPIRE, MI 49630, USA
Driving directionsFrom Traverse City, Michigan take M-72 west to Empire. Proceed 2.1 miles north of Empire on M-22. Go 4.1 miles north on M-109 to West Harwood Road. Take a left on West Harwood Road and continue all the way to the end of the road to D.H. Day Group Campground.
Access to the campground is via a dirt road. The road condition is not noted as difficult, but seasonal maintenance or weather conditions may affect usability.Nearby places
Empire (approximately 2.1 miles, 5 minutes drive), Glen Arbor (approximately 4.1 miles, 10 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, groceries, and camping gear are available in Glen Arbor, approximately 4 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
101 reviews
D.H. Day Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for D.H. Day Group Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic location, proximity to attractions, and opportunities for recreation. Common concerns include the prevalence of poison ivy around campsites and the lack of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 101 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the campground for its beautiful surroundings, including stunning views of Lake Michigan and easy access to the Dune Climb and Glen Haven beach. The clean vault toilets and...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequently cited issues include the abundance of poison ivy, which some campers found overwhelming, and the lack of privacy between closely spaced sites. Others noted the absence of showers...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing water shoes for the rocky beach areas and being prepared for poison ivy near the campsites. A thicker tent pad is advised due to gravel surfaces. Early booking is essential...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is busiest during the summer months, especially from June to August. Fall is noted as a quieter time, ideal for enjoying the scenery without the crowds. Poison ivy...
Based on 101 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We were so close we could hear the waves at night in our tent." "The beach here is fantastic! Love that it’s dog friendly with a nice boardwalk so close to the campground!" "Poison ivy is...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group Site G001 was frequently praised for its spaciousness and cleanliness. Other group sites, such as G003 and G004, were highlighted for their good location and maintenance. "This was our 20th...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 101 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited at the group sites, and there were no reviews specifically addressing pet experiences.
Based on 101 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025