National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes Dog Policy

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is Somewhat Dog Friendly

Trails
Dogs Limited
[]
Campground
Dogs Allowed
with 6' Leash & Exceptions []
Beach
Dogs Limited
[]

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses miles of beaches, overlooks over Lake Michigan, forests, lighthouses, and dunes. The Lakeshore offers many recreation activities such as hiking, walking on the dunes, fishing, hunting, bicycling, swimming, boating/kayaking/canoeing, winter sports, and more.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is somewhat dog friendly. Dogs are allowed on trails and a lot of sections of beaches, but they're also not allowed in many areas. The NPS Pet Policy has a nice map of the areas where dogs are allowed and not allowed. Dogs are also allowed at a few campgrounds.

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Trail Policy

Dogs are allowed on some trails while on a leash no longer than 6'. Please see the map in the Pet Policy for details on which areas dogs are allowed.

Campground Policy

Dogs are allowed at the following campgrounds while on a leash:

Dogs aren't allowed at group campsites or back-country campsites.

Beach Policy

Dogs are allowed on the following beaches while on a leash no longer than 6':

  • From Platte River Campground / Railroad Grade trail north to Peterson Road
  • From Esch Road north to the Lakeshore boundary
  • From Peterson Road south to Old Railroad Grade Trail/Platte Campground Trail
  • From the Lakeshore boundary north of Empire to just south of the North Bar Lake stream outlet
  • From Maritime Museum east (but not on the Maritime Museum grounds) to the Lakeshore boundary (west of Glen Arbor)
  • From the Lakeshore boundary north of Glen Arbor around Pyramid Point to CR 669
  • From CR 651 north to the Lakeshore northern boundary
  • Glen Lake Picnic Area

Location & Map

State
Michigan

Hunting

Warning: Hunting is allowed at this location. Please be aware of and familiarize yourself with hunting seasons, and exercise appropriate caution with your dog. During hunting season(s), you may also want to consider having your dog wear a blaze orange vest.

For more information on hunting seasons and policies, please see: https://www.nps.gov/slbe/planyourvisit/hunting.htm

Have a photo of your dog here?

Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.

Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.

Credits
All other text and images, except where noted, copyright ASR Concepts, LLC, all rights reserved.