This year, we were able to enjoy two great camping trips.
Spring
We stayed close to home in the spring, using the season to break in our camper and prepare for the longer adventures awaiting us later in the year. After a successful shake-out trip to Hillsdale State Park, we ventured north to Winterset, Iowa, where we explored the charming bridges of Madison County, made famous by the iconic novel and film. While there, we also visited the birthplace of John Wayne, immersing ourselves in the legacy of this legendary American actor.
Our journey continued westward into the serene remoteness of Nebraska, where we discovered the hidden gems of the state’s parks. At Ponca State Park, we marveled at the breathtaking views of the Missouri River bluffs and enjoyed peaceful hikes through the lush woodlands. Niobrara State Park captivated us with its rolling hills, scenic river overlooks, and opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Wrapping up our spring travels, we spent time at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, where the blend of modern amenities and stunning landscapes offered the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
These short but memorable trips were a wonderful way to ease into the camping season, allowing us to explore regional treasures while preparing for the epic journeys that lay ahead.
Summer
This trip was a long-awaited loop around Lake Michigan, originally planned for 2020 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused all of our reservations to be canceled. Once we were able to reschedule, the journey turned into an unforgettable adventure.
We began our trip with a scenic drive across Iowa, camping along the Mississippi River and attempting a family canoe trip in Illinois. From there, we camped on the shores of Lake Michigan, visiting the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park and reconnecting with family in central Michigan.
Our exploration continued along the western shores of Michigan, where we hiked through the stunning Great Bear National Seashore and marveled at the rugged beauty of the northern shores of the lower peninsula. Crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula, we ventured further into Michigan’s untamed wilderness. A memorable side trip took us without our camper to Mackinac Island, where we enjoyed its historic charm and car-free streets.
We then headed west, driving through the Upper Peninsula before crossing into Minnesota, where we explored the serene beauty of Voyageurs National Park and visited the headwaters of the Mississippi River. The tranquil waters of the Lake Region in Minnesota provided us with beauty and a few laughs. Our journey took us to the Minnesota State Fair, where we had a fun-filled day experiencing the lively atmosphere and local culture.
From Minnesota, we made our way to Door County, known for its picturesque views and quaint small towns. Our journey continued to the Wisconsin Dells, where we explored the unique rock formations and enjoyed the area’s natural attractions. As we made our way back toward Kansas City, we took our time, stopping at several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites along the way, immersing ourselves in more beautiful landscapes.
This trip, which was initially delayed but worth the wait, was filled with stunning scenery, family memories, and countless moments of joy, making it one of our most cherished journeys.