RV Family Adventure! Northern Michigan & the UP

Trip Overview

This was a big one—our very first RV adventure as a family. Over the course of a week, we road-tripped through Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, staying at a mix of campgrounds, hiking scenic trails, trying local flavors, and soaking up time together. From peaceful paddles to spontaneous pit stops, this trip was full of freedom, laughter, and unforgettable moments on the road.

Most Memorable Moments

Paddle boarding with my parents

Calm mornings on the water made for some of the most peaceful moments of the whole trip.

Biking into Copper Harbor

We rode into town for a beer with my dad - what more do you need?

Card games in the RV

A new nightly tradition. Rain or shine, we circled up to play—laughing, scheming, and definitely getting competitive.

JR's Bar

We were driving when we got the news that my sister had just had her first child, JR. A few minutes later, we passed a little dive called JR's Bar. Naturally, we had to pull over and raise a toast.

Walking across the Mackinac Bridge

Once a year the bridge closes for a race and for folks to walk across. I'm so glad the timing worked out for it.

Logistics & Practical Information

ACCOMMODATION

Traverse City
Wilderness State Park
Pictured Rocks KOA
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Manistique Lakeshore Campground

TRANSPORTATION

RV of course! This was our first-ever RV trip, and while it had a learning curve, it ended up being the best way to travel. Having everything with us—kitchen, beds, bathroom—made the journey as much a part of the fun as the destinations.

NOTABLE FOOD

We cooked a lot in the RV, but two food stops stole the show:
- Miners Pasty Kitchen in Munising. Classic U.P. flavors, served hot and flaky. Ideal after a long hike or drive.
- Cherry Public House in Glenn Arbor was a repeat for me but was still delicious!

ACTIVITIES

Paddle boarding and biking
Hiking at Pictured Rocks and the "Porkies"
Exploring lighthouses and small towns
Playing cards and relaxing at camp
Swimming (and occasionally freezing!) in the lakes
Celebrating spontaneous life moments on the road

Tips for Travelers

Plan for "Shit."

Literally and figuratively. Waste disposal is part of RV life, and so are unexpected curveballs. Laugh about them, and prep accordingly.

Leave Room for Surprises

Leave room in the schedule for surprises—like JR's Bar.

Bring Games and Gear

Bring games, books, and campfire gear. Evenings are magical.

Reserve Campgrounds Early

Reserve your campgrounds early—these spots book up, especially in peak summer.

Take It Slow

First-timers: take it slow. Backing into tight sites isn't a race.

Check Bridge Closures

If crossing the Mackinac bridge, be aware that it is closed for a good part of the day on Labor day.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip wasn't just about exploring Michigan—it was about bonding, slowing down, and saying "yes" to the open road. The RV gave us freedom, the forests gave us peace, and the time together gave us stories we'll tell forever. For our first RV experience, it couldn't have gone better.