DHD Group Campground

- VXR4+MV, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

For Michiganders who cherish the timeless tradition of group camping and truly appreciate a more rustic outdoor experience, D.H. Day Group Campground in Glen Arbor, MI, offers an exceptional opportunity. Nestled within the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this specialized campground is designed specifically to accommodate larger groups, making it an ideal choice for family reunions, scout troops, or gatherings of friends seeking to connect with nature together. Unlike more developed campgrounds, D.H. Day Group Campground embraces a primitive charm, providing a unique backdrop for creating lasting memories amidst Michigan's iconic natural beauty. It's a place where the simplicity of a campfire under the stars and the camaraderie of a shared outdoor adventure take center stage.

D.H. Day Group Campground is located in Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA. Its more precise location is just north of the Dune Climb on M-109, then turn west on Harwood Road and continue to its end. This places it directly within the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a jewel of Michigan's natural landscape.

Access to the group campground is via a dirt road, which contributes to its rustic appeal. Importantly, all parties camping at D.H. Day Group Campground must check in at the main D.H. Day Campground office (located at 8000 W. Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636) and pay their park entrance fee before setting up camp at the group site. The main D.H. Day Campground office is located 7.5 miles north of Empire and 1.5 miles west of Glen Arbor on M-109. This check-in process ensures that visitors are properly oriented and aware of park regulations. The proximity to popular attractions like the Dune Climb and the charming village of Glen Arbor (only about 2 miles from restaurants and shops) offers a balance of secluded camping with convenient access to nearby amenities and activities.

D.H. Day Group Campground is a rustic facility, and its services reflect this more primitive camping style, focusing on essential needs for group comfort in a natural setting. Key services include:

• Tent-Only Sites: This campground is designed exclusively for tent camping. RVs and other recreational vehicles are generally not permitted in the group sites to maintain the rustic atmosphere and accommodate larger groups.
• Group Accommodation: The campground features 4 dedicated group sites, each capable of accommodating groups of 7 to 25 people. This is a significant advantage for large families or organized groups.
• Picnic Tables: Each group campsite is equipped with picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and group activities.
• Campfire Rings: Fire rings are provided at each site, allowing groups to enjoy traditional campfires. It's important to note that only NPS-approved firewood may be burned to prevent the spread of forest pests.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault (pit) toilets, aligning with its rustic nature. These are maintained by the park service.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available during the reservation season (typically May 15 to October 15). Visitors should confirm water availability, especially during the shoulder seasons.
• Access to D.H. Day Campground Office: While the group sites are primitive, campers have access to the main D.H. Day Campground office for check-in, questions, and other assistance.
• No Electricity or Showers: It's crucial for campers to be aware that D.H. Day Group Campground does not offer electrical hookups or showers, reinforcing its rustic designation.
• Reservations Required: Reservations are mandatory for D.H. Day Group Campground, particularly between May 15 and October 15. These can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by phone.
• Bear Area: Located in an active bear area, campers are required to properly store all food, drinks, toiletries, and scented items in sealed vehicles, RVs (if allowed in other areas of the park), or food storage lockers day and night to prevent wildlife encounters.

• Prime Location within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: The campground's location is its biggest asset, offering direct access to the iconic Dune Climb and proximity to the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Glen Haven, and the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline.
• Ideal for Large Groups: Specifically designed for groups of 7 to 25 people, it provides a rare opportunity for larger gatherings to camp together in a national park setting.
• Rustic and Secluded Feel: The dirt roads, vault toilets, and lack of electrical hookups contribute to a genuine rustic camping experience, appealing to those who prefer a less developed environment. As one reviewer stated, "Happy that rustic camping isn't as desirable because everything else is!" hinting at a preference for a simpler experience.
• Proximity to Recreational Activities: Campers are a short drive from numerous activities, including climbing the dunes, swimming and beachcombing at Lake Michigan beaches (such as Glen Haven beach), exploring the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail for hiking and biking, and enjoying water activities like kayaking or canoeing on nearby Crystal River.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting offers chances to see various wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild turkey. While black bears are present in the area, sightings are rare.
• Stargazing: With relatively low light pollution, the campground can offer spectacular stargazing opportunities.
• Educational Programs: The nearby main D.H. Day Campground sometimes hosts ranger-led programs, which can enrich the camping experience for families and groups.

As a campground administered by the National Park Service, D.H. Day Group Campground does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Fees are set and standardized.

However, it's important for prospective campers to be aware of the fee structure:

• Nightly Fee: Group campsites generally cost $40.00 per night.
• National Lakeshore Entrance Fee: In addition to the camping fee, visitors must pay a separate Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore entrance fee ($25 per vehicle for 1-7 days, or $45 for an annual pass). Federal interagency passes (e.g., Annual Pass, Senior Pass) are honored for the entrance fee.

Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Early booking is highly recommended, especially for popular summer dates, due to the limited number of group sites.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about D.H. Day Group Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: VXR4+MV, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA (Note: Specific location is at the end of Harwood Road, just north of the Dune Climb on M-109. Check-in is at the main D.H. Day Campground office at 8000 W. Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636).

Phone: (231) 326-4700, extension 5045 (for campground inquiries, or 5035 for group camps specifically)

For reservations, visit www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

Physical Address of Park Headquarters/Mailing Address: 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630.

For Michiganders, D.H. Day Group Campground offers a compelling and quintessential "Up North" camping experience, particularly for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with a larger party. Its location within the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a significant draw, providing unparalleled access to some of Michigan's most stunning natural attractions, including the famous Dune Climb, beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, and extensive hiking and biking trails. This means local families and groups can easily plan a memorable outing in a world-renowned natural setting right in their own state.

The campground's focus on rustic, tent-only group sites caters perfectly to those who appreciate a more traditional, back-to-basics camping adventure, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection with nature. It’s an ideal spot for multi-family vacations, scout adventures, or simply a large gathering of friends who want to share a campfire under the stars away from the distractions of modern life. The primitive nature, including vault toilets and no electricity, allows for a truly immersive outdoor experience, something many Michiganders actively seek for a genuine escape.

Furthermore, the proximity to Glen Arbor means that while the campground itself is rustic, essential services and charming local attractions are just a short drive away. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access makes D.H. Day Group Campground an exceptionally suitable destination for Michigan locals looking for a unique, group-friendly, and unforgettable camping adventure within the cherished Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It’s a place where you can create new traditions and reinforce existing bonds amidst the stunning landscapes of your home state.

DHD Group Campground

VXR4+MV, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, USA