06/11/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share that our beloved campground dog, Ace, passed away last Friday. It took me a bit to gather my emotions to be able to make this post
Ace wasn't just a dog—he was part of the heart and soul of Sleeping Bear. Ace spent his entire life at Sleeping Bear. He arrived as a tiny puppy the same year we purchased the campground 14 years ago and has been by our side through every memory, milestone, and chapter since. ❤️🐾 From the very beginning, he watched cabins go up, roads get built, and families create memories that would last a lifetime. Even after cancer took his eye he was ready for any adventure.
If you visited Sleeping Bear, chances are you met Ace. He loved making new friends, both two-legged and four-legged. Some of his favorite things included playing with visiting dogs, our grandkids visits, stopping by campsites to say hello, "helping" guests during cookouts in hopes of a snack, borrowing the occasional glove, or any other item you may have left in reach for a game of chase, taking a cap off an empty water bottle in under 3 seconds, rolling in sand or snow, showing you the latest piece of wood he was shredding and napping. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and could always be counted on to brighten someone's day.
More than anything, Ace was our very best friend. Through every success, challenge, and milestone, he was right there beside us. His gentle spirit, loyal heart, and friendly personality touched the lives of countless guests, friends, and family members over the years.
The campground won't quite feel the same without seeing him making his rounds, greeting visitors, or finding a shady spot to keep watch over everything he loved.
Thank you to everyone who shared a kind word, a belly rub, a treat, or a moment with Ace over the years. We know many of you loved him too.
Run free, sweet boy. Thank you for 14 wonderful years of friendship, loyalty, and unconditional love. You will forever be a part of Sleeping Bear, and you will be truly missed by so many. ❤️🐾
Forever our campground dog. Forever our friend. 🐾💔 Please feel free to share any photo you may have of Ace in the comments, we would love to see them