Beachscape and sand dunes with crystal clear water at the Dune Climb Hike in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Traverse City

Where To Stay Near Sleeping Bear Dunes (best cabins, camping & more!)

March 20, 2026

Looking for the best places to stay near Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore? From the best campsites to cabins and budget-friendly hotels, here’s where to set up your basecamp on your Northern Michigan adventure:

Why this blog? Hi there! My name is Maddy and I’ve been working as an outdoor guide and writer since 2018. I grew up exploring Northern Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes, and I’m stoked to show you around! It’s my mission both in person and online to help folks find the best possible adventure for them, so read on to plan your perfect trip.

Oh hey there! This blog uses affiliate links. That means if you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

Where to Stay while visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes:

One of the best things about the Sleeping Bear Dunes is how many unique and cozy cabins you can find, at relatively affordable prices (especially if you’re looking for a rustic cabin!)

1) Sleeping Bear Riverside Cabins

While the Sleeping Bear Dines National Lakeshore itself tends to get all the hype, one of the coolest things about Northern Michigan is it’s sandy-bottomed, crystal clear rivers. At Sleeping Bear Riverside Cabins, you can set up shop for a weekend of adventure just outside the Sleeping Bear Dunes in a tiny cabin on a river.

2) M22 Inn Glen Arbor

For budget-friendly and beautiful accommodations walking distance from downtown Glen Arbor, check out M22 Inn Glen Arbor. This is the perfect stay for couples looking to spend most of the day out adventuring and enjoying the dunes.

Kayaking the clear waters of the crystal river in michigan

crystal river; beautiful place to kayak traverse city

In Glen Arbor, be sure to kayak the gorgeous Crystal River for some of the prettiest kayaking in Michigan. The water clarity and color here is truly unbeatable.

READ: Best Things to do in the Sleeping Bear Dunes

3) Betsie Riverside Resort

For another cozy riverside cabin option, check out Betsie Riverside Resort. These little cottages are located nearer to the southern section of the Sleeping Bear Dunes and farther inland. This is a great location if you’re looking to get away from the crowds in Sleeping Bear proper.

4) Baymont by Wyndham Beulah

For a classic hotel experience near crystal lake and the small town of Beulah, check out the Baymont. This is a little farther from the Sleeping Bear Dunes but definietly still in day trip distance, but makes for a great spot to stay if you’re looking forward to shopping and exploring Northern Michigan small towns or finding quieter beaches.

image of hiking boots at sunset at overlook nine in sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore

a hiker runs through the sleeping bear dunes

The town of Beulah has a beautiful public beach on the Crystal River and plenty of breweries and cute shopping.

READ: Best Beaches in Michigan

5) Retro on the River

For a unique riverfront cabin rental, check out Retro on the River near Honor, Michigan. This is an adorable full cabin rental with river access for swimming and paddling.

6) Crystal Mountain Resort

For a stay that has something for the whole family, check out Crystal Mountain Resort near Frankfort, Michigan. From on-site dining to alpine slides to the Michigan Art Park, Crystal Mountain Resort has a variety of lodging options and a lot to do. This is what I would recommend for families looking to balance a lot of different voices on a trip and differing activity levels.

a woman sits in a window at a cabin at crystal mountain resort

Crystal Mountain Resort is a little farther from the Sleeping Bear Dunes, but still close enough for an easy day trip. There’s also a lot of hiking and beaches near Frankfort, and overall it can make for a really great destination to base your Sleeping Bear Dunes vacation around.