Why We Love Dispersed Camping in Manistee National Forest

The isolation of dispersed camping is the perfect cure to the hustle of every day. It’s remote, quiet, and provides campers with the opportunity to reconnect with nature. From his previous years of backpacking, Steve was already hooked on dispersed camping but I had not experienced it until 2010. I immediately fell in love and …

A Winter Stay at Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park is a located north of the city of Ludington, Michigan. It contains 5,300 acres of diverse habitat, including hardwood forests, marshlands, and nearly 7 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Lake Michigan & Dunes The drive into the park twists through ever changing sand dunes with hints of Lake Michigan peaking through. It’s stunning…

Sparrow Rapids: A Forgotten Campground

Snug within the Ottawa National Forest, Sparrow Rapids Campground offers the perfect getaway for any outdoor enthusiast. Surrounded by roaring waters, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife, this campground is one of the best we have visited. There are no fees to camp at Sparrow Rapids. Considered a “limited service” campground, all visitors must pack-out all …

A Great Stay at Cusino Lake State Forest Campground

Scattered south of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are a handful of state forest campgrounds. Like most of these campgrounds, Cusino offers some peaceful views, recreational opportunities, and solitude. Cusino Lake State Forest Campground has 6 sites that are all first-come, first-serve. The sites are available for tents and small trailers. Amenities include vault …

Camping & Touring Scout’s Rest Ranch

In 1878 William Cody bought 4,000 acres near North Platte, Nebraska. He built ranch buildings, including a house and a barn. He raised cattle and purebred stallions. He lived here from 1886 to 1913 and called this place Scout’s Rest Ranch. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park The state of Nebraska bought the famous showman’s …

Getting Away to Big Eric’s Bridge State Forest Campground

It’s hard to pick just one campground that’s a favorite, especially in the U.P. But if there is one place that I keep coming back to, it’s Big Eric’s Bridge State Forest Campground. This rustic campground is located on the Huron River about 30 minutes from downtown L’Anse. It’s a small campground with only 20 …

Camping at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

If you’re looking for a campground in the Copper Harbor area, you’ll quickly find that your options are limited. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park is one of three options currently available for campers and in my opinion, has the best to offer for what you pay. The park itself features a restored 1844 military outpost. …

Camping in the Porkies: Union Bay Campground

Union Bay Campground is a modern campground located in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Without a doubt, this campground has some of the finest sunset and sunrise spots in the area. Even in a modern campground, camping on the shores of Lake Superior in July can be risky. It’s prime black fly season and those …

Round Lake Campground – Serenity in Michigan’s L.P.

Pigeon River State Forest is without a doubt, our favorite place to camp and hike in Michigan’s lower peninsula. Time and time again, we have shared its beauty with people who love being in the outdoors. One of five campgrounds in Pigeon River State Forest, Round Lake Campground is by far a favorite. Tucked away …

A Winter Stay at Teddy Lake Yurt

There’s something special about staying in a Yurt. It’s a unique experience that most Michiganders have yet to discover. Our first experience with one was at Teddy Lake in Michigan’s Craig Lake State Park. The Teddy Lake Yurt is available year-round, making it a perfect winter get-away. Because it is a secluded location, a 4-wheel …

Camping with Dogs

Camping with dogs can be a challenge but also some of the best camping experiences. We have two beagles, Brisco and Delilah, who LOVE going camping with us. If you have ever owned beagles, you know just how much they love all those new smells. Both have their own needs and we try our best …

A Remote Destination: King Lake Campground

What’s better than a remote campground? How about one with a lake view and islands? King Lake State Forest campground is a remote and beautiful place, located near Covington, Michigan. With only 6 sites, designed for tents and small trailers, this is a perfect place to visit if you’re looking for some peace and quite. …

Why We Love These Campgrounds

A campground can make or break a trip. Dispersed camping is our preferred method of camping but we also have a few rustic campground favorites. Rustic campgrounds have no electricity, no showers, vault toilets, and sometimes water pumps. These are great opportunities if you want to enjoy nature without the modern conveniences and aren’t quiet …

Camping in the Keweenaw: McLain State Park

Located outside of Hancock on Lake Superior, McLain State Park provides a beautiful, scenic campground. Activities at the park include fishing, hunting, cross-country skiing, and hiking. We spent the first part of our stay here checking out the beach and lighthouse. Options available for camping include a Rustic Cabin for $60 per night or the …