Camping is a tradition for many Midwest families. Packing up the car, hooking up the camper and heading up north to a state campground. For my mom’s side of the family, this has been an annual occurrence.
For as long as I can remember, my family has gone camping somewhere in Michigan every first week of Aug. We have been to Burt Lake State Park, Muskegon State Park, St. Joseph KOA, Silver Lake State Park and more. We don’t quite camp in the wilderness, but we don’t exactly “glamp” either.
These campgrounds often have electricity, camper hookups, beach areas and playgrounds. My mom and I have always used a tent while my siblings prefer my grandpa’s camper. We blow up air mattresses and sleep through whatever Mother Nature may throw at us.
My mom’s grandfather started the tradition of the Darbor Family Camping Trip. It started as a way to spend time and have fun with the family, but it has evolved so much since.
Now, my extended family is a bit scattered throughout the state and country. Everyone has their own lives and busy schedule, so there are some family members we don’t see as often. The camping trip gives everyone the opportunity to spend a week together, having fun and catching up.
We always have a flamingo theme. Flamingo decorations are put up throughout our many connected campsites. We also do a flamingo-themed puzzle every year. I love the puzzle because it sits out and anyone can work on it anytime. Not only do I enjoy the puzzle, but it also gives me a chance to sit down and chat with my cousins.
We have also never limited the trip to just family. In the past, I’ve brought my best friend, and my cousins have brought their significant others. Despite the stress that sometimes comes along with it, it is an experience I love sharing.
Since we have camped in so many different places, we have also gotten the chance to see a lot of cool things and landmarks around Michigan. One of my favorites is the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. You can tour them, drive dune buggies and trucks over them, park your boat against them and even just run up and down the dunes.
We also enjoy just driving around and checking out local businesses. You can meet a lot of really cool people in these “touristy” cities.
It is a good way to get out in nature as well. We often go to a lake, or I’ll just sit by the fire pit and soak in the sun. Getting off my phone for a while is really refreshing.
Researchers from the National Park Service have linked outdoor activity to a decrease in depressive thoughts, as well as becoming more in touch with your circadian rhythm. This can increase your quality of health and sleep.
There is a camping option for nearly everyone. If you want to test your survival skills, you can camp in the wilderness. If you prefer to travel and have that outdoor time, while still having somewhere secure to sleep, “glamping” may be more up your alley.
I have always enjoyed the solid middle road. Setting up a tent in a nice campground, swimming and spending time with my family.
I would like to encourage people to camp more for all the reasons I’ve outlined. There are so many places to visit, not only in Michigan but all over the country. You could even camp in your backyard. All you ideally need is a group of people and somewhere to sleep.