Camping fees are increasing at the White Pine Backcountry Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore/NPS file
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan is increasing the fees for the White Pine Backcountry Campground beginning in March 1, when rates for the campsites will increase from $10 to $13 per night. Reservations for these sites will be made available on Recreation.gov.
The campground is located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes Wilderness, which was designated in 2014 and covers more than 32,000 acres. It encompasses dunes and forests, including areas on the mainland and portions of South and North Manitou islands.
A backcountry permit and park pass are required to camp at White Pine Backcountry Campground. Get permits and passes at the Platte River Campground or, off-season, at the Visitor Center in Empire.
A civic engagement period on the fee increase was held from October 2 through November 1, 2023, and comments were submitted on the proposed camping fee rates. Of the 64 responses received, 31 percent expressed direct support for the fee rate change, 23 percent opposed the rate increase, and 46 percent were neutral or did not specify whether they supported or opposed but provided suggestions or feedback.
