Camping Adventure from Leland to South Manitou Island
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days to multiple nights
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition to carry camping gear and hike up to 5 miles daily on uneven terrain.
Overview
Escape to South Manitou Island from Leland for a tranquil camping experience on Lake Michigan. Discover peaceful trails, pristine beaches, and rich history on this unique island getaway.
Camping: Leland → South Manitou Island
1-2 Hours • All Ages • Check-in: 1 hour prior to departure
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Explore South Manitou by camping overnight!
Duration
Approx. 1 to 2 hours
About
The easiest way to ensure a seamless trip to South Manitou Island is to book online!
Depending on the schedule, your ferry trip to the island will take approximately 1-2 hours. Our crew will be your guide as we cruise past the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Crossing the Manitou Passage, and international shipping lane, notice the North Manitou Shoal Lighthouse standing guard. Thousands of visitors make the trip to South Manitou Island each summer.
South Manitou Island offers three campgrounds for your overnight trips. They include:
- The Bay Campground (0.5 miles from dock)
- The Weather Station Campground (1.3 miles from the dock)
- The Popple Campground (3.5 miles from the dock).
Leave no trace camping is the rule. This minimizes human impact on the fragile natural resources.
Camping Info
- Gear: Needs to be kept to a minimum. you need to be able to carry it on and off the boat and carry to your campsite. we do not allow wagons/sleds/rolling carts to haul gear. again, you need to be able to carry it in one trip.
- Campers: The National Park does not take reservations for individual campsites. they do take reservations for the group sites for more than 8 people. For individual campers or small families, as long as you have boat reservations, you are guaranteed a site. We have never filled up the campgrounds on the island. You can pay for your campsite in the ticket office in the morning when you check in.
Adventure Tips
Reserve Your Ferry Spot Early
Manitou Island Transit has limited daily seats, so book your ferry tickets well in advance to secure your trip.
Pack for Backcountry Camping
Bring all necessary camping gear including water purification and bear-proof food containers, as the island has no stores or services.
Respect Leave No Trace Principles
Carry out all trash and minimize campfire impacts to preserve the island's fragile environment.
Bring a Reliable Headlamp
With little to no artificial light at night, a headlamp is crucial for moving safely around your campsite after dark.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Peregrine falcons
History
South Manitou Island has a rich maritime history tied to Great Lakes shipping routes and early lighthouse keepers.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the island's delicate ecosystems and maintain its natural beauty.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Traverse City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Durable Backpack
A quality pack is vital for carrying your camping gear comfortably on island trails.
Water Filtration System
Clean water sources are limited, so a reliable filtration system ensures safe drinking water.
Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks during the warmer months on the island.
summer specific
Warm Sleeping Bag
Nights can be chilly, especially in spring and fall, so a sleeping bag rated for cooler temperatures is recommended.
fall specific