Are you new to the RV lifestyle? Not sure what the difference is between a fifth wheel and a conventional trailer? Start here! In this article, we explain the different types of RVs available.
Before starting your RV search, it’s time to brush up on your RV vocabulary! Learn the meanings of common RV terms frequently used on forums and blogs.
RVers love Florida’s campgrounds and it’s no secret why. Blessed with an abundance of natural resources, stunning scenery and recreation activities for people of all ages, Florida is known for its southern hospitality.
Add in ideal weather and the Sunshine State never misses an opportunity to live up to its reputation as the place to go to make magical family memories. In this post, we’ve rounded up some of the best sites for RVing in Florida. So gather up the family and get ready to explore our picks for the top 8 campgrounds in Florida!
Important note: Due to Covid-19, many campgrounds and attractions have temporarily closed or limited capacity to allow for social distancing. Please contact each campground or park directly for latest information and updates.
Why camp in Florida? What does Florida camping offer for RVers?
Hosting millions of visitors each year, Florida campgrounds know how to take care of their guests. Many are conveniently located near popular tourist destinations. They also include a wide variety of their own amenities so you can relax, keep the kids entertained and explore the state’s vast natural resources. Florida campers love:
Access to white sand beaches to swim, fish, watch dolphins, kayak, canoe, search for seashells or look for birds
Spectacular wildlife viewing where alligators, turtles, iguanas, armadillos and pelicans are among the unique array of 700 vertebrates, more than 30,000 invertebrates, nearly 200 freshwater fish and more than 1,000 marine fish that call Florida home
Diverse habitats to explore from the cypress swamps, Everglades and coral reefs to untouched wetlands, coastal forests and beach dunes
Opportunities to relax among the palm trees, warm sunshine, and white-sand beaches
Top 8 Florida Campgrounds for RVers
Whether you’re a first-time or frequent visitor, you’ll fall in love with Florida campgrounds. The state is dotted with federal- and state-owned properties as well those operated by private businesses and local campground hosts. All are guaranteed to provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Here are few of our favorite Florida campgrounds to get your vacation planning started.
Best Florida campground for beach lovers: Turtle Beach Campground | Sarasota
Let’s start our tour of the best Florida campgrounds with one that’s right on the water! Turtle Beach Campground is one of only a handful of Florida’s campgrounds with direct beach access. It’s located on the Siesta Key in the Gulf of Mexico. Turtle Beach is more low key and less crowded than other area beaches, making it the perfect place to stake your spot for fun in the sun.
The trees that line Turtle Beach Campground provide a
gorgeous greeting as you approach the beach. You’ll enjoy dipping your toes in
the dark, coarse sand for long walks as well as kayaking, swimming, fishing,
boating and looking for seashells. There are both boat and kayak launches. You
could spend the whole day here sun bathing, snorkeling, throwing a game of
horseshoes, playing in the water, hanging out at the playground and
participating in a game of volleyball. You can even grill lunch and eat at the
picnic shelter.
Spring has officially arrived and, along with the warmer weather and longer days, we’ve seen many migratory birds return to our backyard. And since Earth Day is right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to make a recycled bird feeder.
We enjoy watching our feathered friends and keep a few bird feeders out to attract them. You can too! Learn how to make your own recycled bird feeder with our simple craft instructions below.
What you’ll need:
Two plastic soda bottles (they don’t have to be identical but similar shapes/sizes work better for this craft; you won’t need the caps)
One plastic lid (a yogurt container lid or similar works well)
Craft knife / Scissors
Sharpie
Ruler or measuring tape
Super glue or Gorilla glue
Before you begin, make sure to wash your plastic soda bottles and container lid. Use dish soap and warm water to remove any residue.
How to Make Your Own Recycled Bird Feeder
Using a ruler or measuring tape and Sharpie, draw a rectangle that’s about 1 inch wide and 2 inches tall near the base of one of the plastic soda bottles. Try to leave at least half an inch of room at the base of the bottle, below your rectangle.
Repeat on the opposite side of the soda bottle.
Carefully cut out these rectangles using a craft knife or scissors.
Next, measure one inch above the top of your rectangular cutouts and make a mark with the Sharpie to guide your cutting.
Cut off the top half of the bottle and set aside. What’s left is the bottom of your recycled bird feeder.
Now, glue the bottom of the bird feeder to the plastic lid. Dab a few drops of Super glue or Gorilla glue to the bottom of the soda bottle and adhere it to the center of the plastic lid.
Set this aside until the glue dries completely.
Grab your second soda bottle and the craft knife or scissors.
Flip the second bottle upside down, then carefully cut a slit three-quarters of the way around the baseof the bottle so that it can be lifted open. This will allow you to fill your recycled bird feeder with seed.
Place the second bottle upside down inside the bottom of your bird feeder. Make sure to leave some space between the bottles so that bird seed can funnel down.
Now glue the two bottles together. Dab glue around the rim of the first bottle and secure the second bottle in place until completely dry.
Lastly, bend the top of your bird feeder and fill with bird seed. Tip: the top of your first soda bottle makes a great funnel for filling your recycled bird feeder!
Hanging Your Recycled Bird Feeder
Your recycled bird feeder can be placed on a step, balcony or any other flat surface that’s under some cover. Anywhere will work, as long as the bird seed won’t get wet when it rains. If you prefer to hang your bird feeder, here’s how.
What you’ll need:
A wire hanger
Pliers
A nail
First, use the nail to poke a hole approximately 2 inches from the top of your recycled bird feeder. Repeat on the opposite side of the bottle.
Carefully unfold the wire hanger and use the pliers to cut a piece long enough to hang your bird feeder. It should be about 6-8 inches long.
Next, push the wire through the hole on each side.
Finally, use pliers to bend the wire ends inside the feeder so they are secure.
Now you can hang your recycled bird feeder and enjoy watching your new feathered friends!
Cinnamon rolls and pie irons. Two of life’s simplest pleasures combine to make one very delicious campfire breakfast recipe. And we can’t get enough of these easy and quick pie iron cinnamon rolls! They’re the perfect breakfast to warm you up on a chilly morning.
You and your family can enjoy hot and gooey cinnamon rolls for breakfast on your next camping trip, too. Just grab your pie iron and follow the simple steps below!
What you’ll need:
Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough and icing
Non-stick spray
Rome Cast Iron Waffle Pie Iron (This model is a must; the dough won’t cook as evenly in a round pie iron. Plus, the waffle mold makes perfect pools for collecting all the icing!)
From bluffs and beaches to forests and falls, there’s no end to the amazing camping trips you can experience throughout Michigan’s 83 counties. The best of Michigan’s campgrounds are spread across two peninsulas and connected by the Mighty Mac and Midwestern spirit.
Important note: Due to Covid-19, many campgrounds and attractions have temporarily closed or limited capacity to allow for social distancing. Please contact each campground or park directly for latest information and updates.
Why is Michigan the best place to camp?
The Great Lakes State attracts campers for many reasons,
including:
Access to water, ideal for swimming, kayaking, surfing, tubing, boating, fishing and more
Sweeping, breathtaking views of lakes, sunsets, mountains, wine country and waterfalls
Warm days and cool nights, perfect for relaxing around the campfire
Natural amenities. Spend time in the Great Outdoors by hiking a nature trail, climbing a sand dune, picking fresh fruit, relaxing on the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of waterfalls and walking along a pier
Some campers come from across the country to explore popular tourist destinations like Mackinac Island, Frankenmuth and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Others who live in Michigan like to drive an hour or two away from home to unplug, kick back and relax at the best campgrounds in Michigan.
No matter where you call home, Michigan’s diverse campgrounds won’t disappoint. With literally hundreds of thousands of private and publicly owned campsites, there is a spot waiting just for you.
Here’s a look at eight unique Michigan campgrounds that showcase the best the state has to offer:
Best RV friendly Michigan campground: Mackinaw Mill Creek Campground | Mackinaw City, MI
Named one of Michigan’s “Top Family Friendly Campgrounds” by The Detroit News, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping has traditional RV camping with a wide assortment of amenities to keep everyone entertained. For instance, you can explore the hiking and biking trails, basketball court, heated pool, dog-friendly campsites, natural swimming beach, miniature golf course and arcade and game room.
This Michigan camping experience has a relaxed atmosphere with more than 200 acres of woods and a mile of shoreline, but what sets it apart is its proximity to one of the state’s most beloved features – the Mackinac Bridge. A few large full hookup RV sites (including a pull-thru site) provide panoramic views of the Mackinac Bridge, Mackinac Island and the Straits of Mackinac that are so stunning that you won’t be able leave without at least 100 photos of it on your phone.
The Mill Creek campgrounds are only three minutes from downtown Mackinaw City, a vibrant community bustling with restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Set up your campsite, then take a walk or ride a bike into town. You can also hop on a ferry for a day-long excursion of Mackinac Island. While you’re there, sample lots of its famous fudge!
There are more than 200 RV campsites, including small, medium, large and extra-large sites with full hookups, making this one of the best RV campgrounds in Michigan.
Best campground for an authentic Michigan vacation: Platte River Campground | Honor, MI
A stay here is almost required because you really haven’t vacationed in Michigan until you’ve gone tubing down the Au Sable, Rifle or in this case, the Platte River. Some of the best camping in Michigan is just a few minutes away from outfitters that rent the tubes as well as kayaks and canoes. Spend a lazy afternoon floating down the river. You’ll be treated to the peaceful sounds of the water, scenic views and wildlife sightings.
Want more Great Lakes fun? Explore the Sleeping Bear Dune Climb and experience another Michigan tradition: Climbing the sand dunes. The sand dune climb is just a 20-minute drive north of the campground. Older kids will have a ball climbing and then sliding down. However, remember that it can also be taxing on you. Climbing the steep dunes can be strenuous. Especially if you choose to trek out to Lake Michigan. It’s about 3.5 miles round trip and can take three or four hours to complete.
When you’ve wrapped up your adventures for the day, head back
to one of the best places to camp in Michigan to watch a spectacular sunset
over Lake Michigan.
While there is plenty to see and do within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, if you want to venture into the city, take the half hour drive to Traverse City. The area is known for hosting the National Cherry Festival, an eight-day celebration of everything related to cherries. The city is also home to a number of award-winning wineries and breweries. Before planning your trip, check out the city’s calendar of events.
The campground offers spacious campsites with lots of trees that provide plenty of privacy. There are electrical hookups and some pull-thru sites. Hot showers are available. In addition, you’ll find potable water and a sanitation station at the entrance. Water spigots are also located throughout the campground.
Best campground for admiring nature: Tahquamenon Falls State Park | Paradise, MI
Putting Tahquamenon Falls State Park on a list of the best places to camp in Michigan is a no-brainer. People continue to flock to this Upper Peninsula state park year after year to experience nature at its finest.
The highlight is, of course, the falls. The Upper Falls are
one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. According to the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources, it has a drop of nearly 50 feet, is
more than 200 feet across and has a water flow of more than 50,000 gallons per
second. Its striking copper color comes from tannins leached from the
cedar, spruce and hemlock in the swamps drained by the river.
The Lower Falls is where you’ll find two modern campgrounds.
Hemlock Campground is located approximately one mile from the Lower Falls while
Portage Campground is near the river and located one-quarter mile from the Lower
Falls. Electric hookups are available.
After admiring the falls, you should consider hiking some of the many trails. Or try renting a rowboat to paddle out to Lower Falls Island. You can also take a Toonerville Trolley tour to learn more about the area and get a different view of the falls.
This is sure to be one Michigan camping trip where the
family won’t mind being disconnected from their phone, television or Internet
for a while.
Best Michigan campground for outdoor recreation: Wa-Wen Resort | Drummond Island, MI
Unlike the other campgrounds on our list, you’ll need to take a ferry to get to Wa-Wen Resort. But you won’t mind the extra travel time once you arrive at this destination. Wa-Wen Resort provides some of the best camping in Michigan and plenty of ways to play in the great outdoors.
Located off the northern tip of the mitten in Lake Huron, Drummond Island is a peaceful vacation spot with lots of outdoor recreation possibilities. Although it’s only 44 miles as the crow flies from Drummond Island to Mackinac Island (80 miles by car and ferry), this tale of two islands couldn’t be more different.
While Mackinac Island is known for its large fleet of bicycles and horse-drawn carriage travel, on Drummond Island ORVs and ATVs rule. The island features 60 miles of ATV trails and 40 miles of ORV trails which are perfect for both beginners and experts alike. Additionally, the island hosts several Jeep events throughout the year. For example, the annual Jeep the Mac from St. Ignace to Drummond Island is held the fourth weekend in April.
Birdwatchers, rock hounds and boaters will also appreciate bird watching during spring and fall migration periods, the number of stone and fossil hunting opportunities available and the great boating conditions. And, you can find pontoon boat rentals, as well as some of the best perch and walleye fishing spots around so pack your rods and reels.
Campers love the spacious pull-thru sites, full hookups and access to amenities. The RV sites at Wa-Wen Resort have full hookup with 50/30/20 amps. Some are seasonal so be sure to call for details and plan accordingly.
Best campground for bird watching: Tawas Point State Park | Tawas, MI
It’s no surprise why Tawas Point State Park has been called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” After all, this scenic park and its campground are situated on an ideal site along Tawas Bay. The protected waters in the bay provide warm, shallow water for swimmers and plenty of wind for sailboaters and kiteboarders.
This part of the world is also well known for its exceptional birdwatching because it is an important stop for birds during the spring migration season. For many, it provides the first opportunity for them to rest after flying over Lake Huron. For others, it’s a good place to pause before tackling the rest of the journey to Canada. It’s easy for birders to get a nice, long look at the birds, too. Since they are so exhausted, they often stick around for a little bit.
One of the best places to camp in Michigan, the campground at Tawas Point State Park is well organized. There are centrally located restrooms, a sanitation station and playground. Many campsites have mature trees that offer shade during the height of the summer sun.
In addition to wildlife viewing opportunities, the campground provides easy access to all of the park’s beautiful features. This includes the Tawas Point Lighthouse, the only true Victorian-era style station built on the Great Lakes. There is a separate, smaller beach area for campers with the day use beach and lighthouse just a short walk or bike ride away thanks to a paved hiking trail to both destinations.
Best place to camp and experience Michigan history: Camp Dearborn | Milford, MI
You can’t tell the story of Michigan without Detroit and the automotive industry. There are campgrounds dotted all along southeastern Michigan, in rural and urban areas. These Michigan camping spots are conveniently located off major highways. If you’re looking for a place to escape to for a weekend getaway or a great side stop on your way up north, Camp Dearborn is a fantastic location to learn more about Michigan’s rich history.
Make your reservation at Camp Dearborn, located 44 miles northwest of Detroit. Check into one of the 191 RV/tent sites (95 with electricity and 96 with full, 50 amp hookup). Then, travel 45 minutes southeast to Dearborn to explore The Henry Ford, Greenfield Village and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour. All use engaging presentations, displays and artifacts to share the story of the Ford family, as well as the evolution of the state’s auto industry, and its impact on the country as a whole.
1903 Packard Model F Runabout on display at the Henry Ford Museum, Dearborn, MI, May 28, 2018
After discovering more about Michigan’s roots, relax with a stroll through the charming town of Milford. When you return, you can enjoy the facilities at the campground, which include a private beach and swimming lake and a heated swimming pool with a furnished deck. Camp Dearborn is recognized for some of the best camping in Michigan thanks to its family-oriented organized activities, like a morning fitness program, various arts and crafts, evening campfire sing-a-longs, weekly talent show and more.
Best campground for getting away from it all: Porcupine Mountains Union Bay | Ontonagon, MI
The Porcupine Mountains, or “Porkies,” as they are affectionately called, are a small group of mountains that run along the northern tier of the western Upper Peninsula. The state park is 60,000 acres of untouched wilderness – one of the last such areas left in the Midwest today. Within its borders are picturesque settings featuring old-growth forests, waterfalls, rivers, streams and a variety of wildlife. It’s a wonderful part of the Michigan camping experience to lounge outside and breathe in the fresh, crisp air or fall asleep at night with listening to crickets and frogs.
When you have nature’s playground right outside your window, you don’t need much else to be entertained. With some sunscreen, bug spray, water and a few other supplies, head out to hike the more than 90 miles of trails, marvel at the beauty of Lake Superior and take photos of some of the most spectacular scenery you’ll likely ever come across.
Don’t miss Lake of the Clouds, a scenic overlook with a viewing platform that gives you a bird’s eye look of the forest and lake below. Another great stop is Summit Peak. Although there are a number of stairs to maneuver here, at the top you are rewarded with a view that stretches on for miles.
Best campground for star gazing: Port Crescent State Park | Port Austin, MI
While many tourists will head to Lake Michigan for the ultimate beach vacation or Lake Superior for picturesque views, sometimes the best places to camp in Michigan pop up in places where you least expect them. Or, in this case, what we call the sunrise side of the state.
Port Crescent State Park shares the adventure and fun of the Saginaw Bay. Located at the tip of the thumb, its more than 100 campsites, including those with full hookups, are the perfect size for those with smaller campers. Think pop-up campers, teardrop trailers, and lightweight travel trailers. The waterfront views and stunning sunsets make this a perfectly peaceful place to set up camp.
Adding to the pleasant atmosphere is the lack of light pollution. Because of limited light at night, the stars will look like they are popping out of the sky at the park’s dark sky preserve. It’s one of only seven in Michigan. Stargaze to your heart’s content from the comfort of your campsite. Or, if you’d rather go to the dark sky preserve, pack a blanket to spread out and take a peek from the viewing platform.
A wooden boardwalk provides scenic views of the bay. If you really want adventure, you can even camp here in the winter. Michigan is known for being a winter wonderland and cold-weather fans can enjoy activities like hiking and cross-country skiing. Moreover, winter is one of the best times to stargaze! Not only are the nights longer, the reduced humidity in the air means clearer skies. Before you decide to make your trip, check out these tips for staying warm while admiring the night sky.
For more information on the best campgrounds in Michigan
Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping offers fabulous views of the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Island. It is located at 730 U.S. Hwy. 23 in Mackinaw City. For more details, call (231) 436-5584.
The Platte River Campground, located in the southern district of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, provides outdoor family recreation for all. For reservations, call (877) 444-6777.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park, located at 41382 W. M 123 in Paradise, is a spectacular park featuring Upper Falls and Lower Falls. Families will enjoy the scenic views and easily accessible trails. For more information, call (906) 492-3415.
Put your RV on a ferry and head to Wa-Wen Resort on Drummond Island for a fun adventure. The resort is at 32884 S. Maxton Road, Drummond Island. For reservations, call (906) 493-5445.
Tawas Point State Park is located on Tawas Bay at 686 Tawas Beach Road, East Tawas. For more information, call (989) 362-5041.
Camp Dearborn is 626 acres of rolling hills, ponds, trees and lakes just outside the Detroit metro area. For reservations, call (248) 684-6000.
Porcupine Mountains Union Bay is in the heart of a small group of mountains in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Enjoy lots of trails, scenic views and nature at its finest. For reservations, call 1-800-447-2757.
Port Crescent State Park is located on Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay. Enjoy winter activities, the dark sky preserve and three miles of shoreline. For information, call 1-800-447-2757.
