Best town and /or campground

Question

Looking for a campground or just town in general that is centrally located to many day destinations. Never been to Michigan, plan to go for a week in summer with two small children and see and do as much as possible.

Answer

Michigan is a fantastic place for a family vacation, with lots to offer in terms of outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and family-friendly attractions. Here are a few options for towns and campgrounds that are centrally located to many day destinations, especially for families with small children:

1. Traverse City: Located in the northwest part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City is a charming town known for its wineries, sandy beaches, and outdoor recreation. It's a great base for exploring the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is perfect for family-friendly hikes, beach activities, and scenic drives. In addition, you can visit the Children's Museum, go cherry picking (seasonal), and enjoy a variety of family-friendly restaurants and parks. Traverse City is also close to the scenic Leelanau Peninsula and Lake Michigan, offering plenty of opportunities for water activities.

Campground options: Traverse City State Park offers family-friendly camping with easy access to the beaches of Grand Traverse Bay and the nearby attractions.
Nearby attractions: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Interlochen State Park, and the Grand Traverse Bay.

2. Petoskey: Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Petoskey is a picturesque town with plenty of parks, beaches, and historic sites to explore. It's centrally located for visiting other nearby destinations such as Mackinaw City and the Mackinac Island Ferry. Petoskey is known for its historic district, where you can walk around and explore unique shops, restaurants, and parks. The area is also great for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Great Lakes.

Campground options: Petoskey State Park offers beautiful camping facilities with scenic views of Lake Michigan. There are also several private campgrounds around the area.
Nearby attractions: Mackinac Island, Bay Harbor, and the Little Traverse Wheelway for bike rides or walks along the shoreline.

3. Holland: If you want a family-friendly destination with a mix of outdoor and cultural experiences, Holland is a great option. This charming town is known for its Dutch heritage, and you can explore Windmill Island Gardens or visit the popular Holland State Park, which has a great beach for kids. Holland is also close to several fun attractions like the Kalamazoo Nature Center, the Michigan's Adventure Amusement Park, and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in nearby Grand Rapids.

Campground options: Holland State Park offers camping near the beach, with easy access to the lake and hiking trails.
Nearby attractions: Michigan's Adventure amusement park, Windmill Island Gardens, and the Holland Harbor for boat rides and fishing.

4. St. Joseph: Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph is another wonderful family-friendly town with plenty to offer. The town has a lovely beach, which is perfect for families with children, and it's home to the Curious Kids' Museum, which is great for kids under 10. St. Joseph is centrally located to several other attractions, including Warren Dunes State Park and the iconic lighthouse at Tiscornia Beach.

Campground options: Silver Beach County Park offers both camping and easy access to the beach. There are also a few other private campgrounds in the area.
Nearby attractions: Warren Dunes State Park, Lake Michigan beaches, and the Curious Kids' Museum.

5. Mackinaw City: For a truly iconic Michigan experience, Mackinaw City is a great base for exploring both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. It's known for its proximity to Mackinac Island, which is a must-see for visitors. You can also visit the Fort Mackinac, take a ferry to the island, or explore the nearby Mackinaw Straits for stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. Mackinaw City is great for families because it combines both natural beauty and fun historical sites to explore.

Campground options: There are several family-friendly campgrounds near Mackinaw City, such as Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping.
Nearby attractions: Mackinac Island, Fort Mackinac, and the Mackinac Bridge.

Overall, Traverse City, Petoskey, and Holland are all great places to stay for a week-long trip in Michigan, offering a mix of outdoor activities, beaches, and family-friendly attractions. These towns are well-situated for day trips to nearby parks, lakes, and other fun destinations. Whichever town you choose, you’ll have plenty to do and see with your kids!