Update on Government Shutdown:
We are grateful for the minimal maintenance crew and law enforcement rangers working hard to provide an enjoyable and safe experience in the park. With the shut down, fee monies are not coming in that would fund personnel and future projects in Sleeping Bear. Please consider a donation restricted for supporting park projects in 2026. Note in the memo: Shutdown Support.
The Park has provided us with the following updates as of October 21st.
- Winterization in progress. Glen Haven, Dune Climb, Platte River all winterized. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is next.
- All Vault toilets are open and being tended to with limited staff (1 custodian)
- 2 Porta Jon’s added to Dune Climb
- D.H. day campground office closed and is self registration through November
- Platte River campground is open under reservation until Nov. 1st. Then only loop 2 will be open over winter via self pay
- All museum spaces are closed
- Dune Center open 9-5 for another week
- NMI hunt is still happening. Approximate 200 hunters will be participating in the annual management hunt for resource protection
- All LE rangers are now receiving full pay, on time from Fee dollars.
- Visitor Centers remain closed
- Volunteer duties remain suspended
- Volunteer duties related to visitor safety can be approved on a project by project basis.
- Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive will remain open until leaf cover makes the roadway unsafe. Likely 2-3 weeks of access remaining, to be determined by Mother Nature.
- NMI/SMI Great America Outdoor Act project is continuing and on schedule (funding for this project is not impacted by the current budget lapse)
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