Current Conditions

Alerts

orange and yellow maple leaves hang on a branch — Maple leaves at North Bar Lake. Oct. 8, 2026
NPS Photo/T. Pickell

Current Conditions - As of Oct. 12, 2026

Autumn Leaf Peeping Update:

Fall colors are near the peak of the season.

Great spots to experience the season are:

North Bar Lake Overlook - stop #11 on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
The Meadow Loop on the Pyramid Point Trail
The Carsten and Elizabeth Burfiend Farm in Port Oneida

Open Facilities

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
Dune Climb
Dune Center - last day of the season Oct. 31, 2026
The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Lakeshore trails and trailheads
Platte River Campground
D.H. Day Campground
General Store - last day of the season Oct. 31, 2026

Closed Facilities

South Manitou Island Visitor Center and Lighthouse Complex
Glen Haven Cannery Boat Museum, Maritime Museum, Blacksmith Shop
Port Oneida Heritage Center

Manitou Island Access 2026

The National Park Service is relocating the docks on both islands to safer, more sheltered locations. This project addresses damage caused by storms, shifting sand, and high-water levels. It also includes repairing historic buildings and replacing failing infrastructure. Safety and resource protection are the top priorities. For these reasons, all facilities, docks, and utilities on both islands will remain closed until the work is complete.

Drones

Drone use is prohibited at Sleeping Bear Dunes.

A tan curly dog appears to smile at the camera while sitting in the sand with a wood railing behind.

Find out where in the Lakeshore pets are welcome.

Join rangers and volunteers for fun activities and events throughout the Lakeshore.

A person is a track wheelchair drives on the sand with a person walking behind

Find options for visitors of all abilities.

Water safety infographic with the title “Bring everyone home from a fun day in the water” at the top

Find out how to have a safe and responsible visit.

A green and gray tent sits in the woods behind a paved parking space.

Learn more about campground reservations at the Lakeshore.

A ranger helping a visitor with a question

Fee and pass information.

Current Air Quality Conditions

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630

Phone:

231 326-4700

Current Conditions

Alerts