Current Conditions

Alerts

 
Infographic titled "Don't Let Heat Be What Ruins Your Trip — Hike Smart" from the National Park Service. Five tips are listed with icons: (1) Hike before 10 am or after 4 pm; (2) Wear sunblock, sunglasses, hat, and shoes; (3) Bring 2 liters of water per p
Infographic titled "Don't Let Heat Be What Ruins Your Trip — Hike Smart"

NPS

Current Conditions - 2026

Week of June 28

  • Stable flies have hatched. These biting flies are a nuisaince on Lake Michigan beaches.

    • Cover up. Wear long, loose, light‑colored pants, tall socks, and closed‑toe shoes. Calves and ankles are a favorite resting spot.

    • Check the wind. Breezy days help keep flies at bay. Heavy fly days usually coincide with warm, calm, onshore winds and improve when winds strengthen or shift.

    • Time your visit. Flies are most active during the heat of the day; try early morning or late afternoon.

    • Have a Plan B. Consider an activity further from the shoreline. Forest hikes are often more comfortable on heavy fly days.
      Note: Many insect repellents are only moderately effective against stable flies. Coverage + wind is the best combo.

  • Heat advistories this week.

    • Hike before 10 am or after 4 pm.

    • Wear sunblock, sunglasses, hat, and shoe.

    • Bring 2 liters of water per person.

    • Eat salty snacks.

    • Have a plan and a buddy.

  • Pack your Patience.

    • Expect heavy crowding, especially at boat and tube launches/landings.

    • Arrive early, carpool if you can, and be patient at access points and in parking lots.

Open facilities

Closed facilities and roads

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.
Pets in the park

Find out where in the Lakeshore pets are welcome.

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Calendar of Events

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
Accessibility Information

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
Be safe!

Find out how to have a safe and responsible visit.

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Camping

Learn more about campground reservations at the Lakeshore.

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Fees & Passes

Fee and pass information.

 

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Last updated: June 30, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630

Phone:

231 326-4700

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