D. H. Day Campground

dh day campground photos

For those of us in Michigan who cherish the raw beauty of our state's natural landscapes and prefer a camping experience deeply connected to the outdoors, D.H. Day Campground in Glen Arbor offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this "fabulous park service campground" is a prime destination for individuals, couples, and families seeking a rustic yet incredibly rewarding retreat. If your ideal getaway involves abundant shade, easy access to pristine Lake Michigan, and miles of scenic trails, D.H. Day Campground is an absolute must-visit right here in our cherished Mitten State.

D.H. Day Campground is renowned for its commitment to providing a natural and serene camping environment. While it is a rustic campground, meaning "there aren’t any showers and the bathrooms are outhouses," campers consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, with "pit toilets were quite clean." This focus on maintaining a basic yet clean infrastructure allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty without unnecessary frills. The campground boasts "lots of shady sites, many of which were quite private compared to state parks," offering a sense of seclusion that is highly valued. Whether you're traveling with your furry companion, as one happy camper noted, or simply looking for a "nice quiet campground" with a "pretty large and fairly quiet" site, D.H. Day delivers an authentic and peaceful experience. Its direct access to the Lake Michigan shoreline and the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail makes it an ideal base for exploring one of Michigan's most breathtaking national treasures.

D.H. Day Campground enjoys an exceptional location at 8010 W Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA, placing it directly within the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This area is consistently ranked among the most beautiful places in America, famed for its towering sand dunes, crystal-clear Lake Michigan waters, and lush forests. For us Michiganders, this means a world-class natural park is literally in our backyard, offering an incredible variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery just a drive away.

The campground's accessibility is one of its greatest advantages. It is strategically positioned to offer both a sense of immersion in nature and convenient access to key attractions. The "lakeshore is a quick walk" from many campsites, allowing for easy strolls along Lake Michigan's pristine beaches, perfect for sunsets or swimming. Furthermore, the "Sleeping Bear Heritage trail runs right through it," making it "so easy to hop on bikes and get right up to the Dune climb on a paved path in just a few miles." This direct trail access eliminates the need to drive and park at popular trailheads, enhancing the overall convenience of your stay.

Glen Arbor itself, a charming small town known for its quaint shops and eateries, is also easily accessible from the campground, offering options for supplies or a meal out. The approach to the campground via well-maintained roads ensures a smooth journey for both cars and RVs. This combination of being deeply embedded in nature while remaining highly accessible to major attractions and essential services makes D.H. Day Campground an incredibly practical and desirable choice for Michiganders seeking an unforgettable camping adventure.

D.H. Day Campground is a National Park Service facility, designed to provide a rustic camping experience within a protected natural environment. While it intentionally foregoes some modern amenities to preserve its character, it offers essential services for a comfortable and enjoyable stay:

• Diverse Campsites: The campground offers a variety of sites, including designated areas for tents and limited sites that can accommodate RVs (up to 35 feet, though larger rigs might find it tight). All sites are available on a reservation basis.
• Spacious & Shady Sites: Many sites are "large" and benefit from "lots of shady" areas provided by mature trees, enhancing privacy and comfort.
• No Hookups: Consistent with its rustic nature, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at the individual campsites. Campers must be self-sufficient or use communal water sources.
• Clean Pit Toilets: While "outhouses," the "pit toilets were quite clean" as noted by campers, ensuring basic, well-maintained restroom facilities.
• Potable Water: Shared water spigots are available throughout the campground, providing access to potable drinking water.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase at the campground office or from local vendors, and campers can collect dead and down wood within park boundaries.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them, making it suitable for those who travel with their furry companions.
• Campground Host/Ranger Presence: National Park Service staff are present to assist campers, provide information, and ensure park regulations are followed.

D.H. Day Campground is celebrated for its exceptional features and highlights, which consistently make it a favorite among visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. These elements create a unique and memorable camping experience:

• Direct Lake Michigan Access: A major draw is the "quick walk" to the "beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline," allowing campers easy access to swimming, beachcombing, and watching the stunning sunsets over the lake.
• Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail On-Site: The paved, multi-use "Sleeping Bear Heritage trail runs right through it," providing immediate access for "bikes" and "hiking." This makes it incredibly convenient to reach the iconic Dune Climb (just a few miles away) and explore other parts of the Lakeshore without driving.
• Shady & Private Sites: Campers highly value the "lots of shady sites" and the fact that "many of which were quite private compared to state parks," offering a sense of seclusion and comfort.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground is often described as a "nice quiet campground," fostering a peaceful and relaxing environment ideal for unwinding in nature.
• Proximity to Park Attractions: Beyond the Heritage Trail and Dune Climb, the campground is a central base for exploring other key sites within Sleeping Bear Dunes, including the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven Village, and numerous hiking opportunities.
• Wildlife & Nature Immersion: The natural setting offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. While reviews mention avoiding "black flies and mosquitoes" as a lucky break, it underscores the genuine outdoor experience.
• Fabulous Park Service Management: The campground benefits from being run by the National Park Service, known for their dedication to preserving natural beauty and providing well-maintained, respectful camping environments.

For reservations and information regarding D.H. Day Campground within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, please use the following official contact details:

• Address: 8010 W Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA
• Phone (Campground Office): (231) 334-4634
• National Park Service General Information: (231) 326-4700
• Reservations: All sites are reservable and can be booked up to six months in advance through

  www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Due to its popularity and prime location, especially during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to make reservations as far in advance as possible to secure your desired campsite.

For us Michiganders, D.H. Day Campground is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for several compelling reasons. Its location within the world-renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore means we have unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities right in our own backyard. This allows for an unforgettable camping trip without the extensive travel often associated with such iconic destinations, making it perfect for weekend escapes or longer family vacations.

The campground's rustic nature, while lacking showers and full hookups, is precisely what many Michigan locals seek – a genuine connection to the outdoors, away from urban distractions. The ample shade, private sites, and quiet atmosphere provide a serene setting for relaxation. Crucially, the direct, easy access to the Lake Michigan shoreline and the paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying our state's most cherished natural features. The ability to bike directly to the Dune Climb is a major convenience and highlight.

Being a National Park Service campground also ensures a well-maintained and regulated environment, fostering a respectful community of campers. For those who appreciate stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a peaceful, authentic camping experience, D.H. Day Campground is a truly "fabulous" choice that allows us Michiganders to fully embrace the natural wonders of our beautiful state.

D. H. Day Campground

8010 W Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA