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This Michigan Campground Will Take Your Breath Away

Summer is in full swing, but before you know it, the leave will be changing color and fall will be here. I really don’t want to think about that. I…

Beautiful camping image.

The beautiful scenery of a tent in a campsite.

Getty Images/Peerapat_Lekkla

Summer is in full swing, but before you know it, the leave will be changing color and fall will be here. I really don't want to think about that. I don't like winter, at all, so I want summer to last forever. But, it's time to get your camping plans set before the show falls. One Michigan campground has been named the most beautiful in the state. If you haven't been to this spot yet, make a plan to go this season.

Pure Michigan has put out a list of the most beautiful campgrounds in Michigan. "Michigan is the perfect place for an idyllic camping trip!" they state. "Escape the hustle and bustle, spend quality time with friend and family, and develop a new found appreciation for Mother Nature at some of these most scenic campgrounds in Michigan." Camping is a very Michigander thing to do. I'm actually not a big camper, but so many of my friends look forward to it every summer.

Before we get to No. 3, let's look at the top three spots for camping in Michigan. According to the list, No. 3. is Porcupine Mountains State Park in Ontonagon. This campsite is the "largest of its kind in Michigan," according to the article, at 60,000 acres. They also offer many different campsites, such as modern, rustic and yurt lodging. Don't forget to check out the scenic waterfalls, too. No. 2 on the list is South Higgins Lake State Park in Roscommon. "Head to Northeast Michigan to take a swim in the crystal-clear Higgins Lake or grab a metal detector and try your luck searching for hidden treasures along the shoreline," Pure Michigan writes.

So, what's the Michigan campground that has been named the most beautiful in the state? Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Paradise. "Take in the sights of one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi at Tahquamenon Falls State Park in the Eastern Upper Peninsula," Pure Michigan writes. This area offers a whopping 40 miles of hiking trails, 13 inland lakes and about 20,000 acres. Find the full list here.

You don’t have to travel far for an island getaway when you live in Michigan. Tucked away in the waters of Michigan’s Great Lakes are some of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever see.

If you're familiar with Michigan or even if you've never set foot in the Great Lakes State, chances are you've heard of Mackinac Island. This tiny 4.35 square mile paradise is home to around 500 residents, but its annual visitors exceed one million. However, Michigan is not limited to just Mackinac Island. If you're itching to discover other islands in the state, we've got a few recommendations for you to explore.

These islands are simply gorgeous.

People absolutely love the islands in Michigan, and it's not hard to see why. These islands are simply gorgeous. The natural beauty found there is off the charts. From pristine beaches and lush forests to sparkling waters and stunning views, the scenery is straight out of a postcard. But it's not just about the looks. These islands offer an escape from the daily grind. You can leave behind the honking horns and crowded streets and embrace a more relaxed pace of life. And some of these islands don't even allow cars.

Whether you're into hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, or even off-roading, you'll find your fix here. Of course, you can’t forget the amount of history each island holds. They've witnessed the passage of time, seen settlers come and go, and have their own unique cultures. You can dive into the past by visiting historical sites, checking out museums, or chatting with the locals.

One of the best things about these islands is the chance to have one-of-a-kind experiences. Where you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride like you're in a fairytale. Or spot majestic gray wolves in their natural habitat.

In Michigan, there are islands waiting to be discovered. Here are five islands you should check out.

Isle Royale

Isle Royale, one of Michigan's five national parks, attracts around 17,000 visitors annually. This little island nestled in the heart of Lake Superior offers wildlife and outdoor fun. Despite its national park status, it remains uncrowded. In fact, Isle Royale is one of the least-visited national parks in the entire country according to Michigan.org. But that’s due to its lack of accessibility. Most adventurers reach the island by taking a five-hour boat ride from the Upper Peninsula.

Beaver Island

Beaver Island, the biggest island in Lake Michigan, is a nature lover's paradise with plenty of activities to enjoy. The year-round population has around 600, and a significant portion of the islanders proudly trace their roots back to Ireland.

Les Cheneaux Islands

Les Cheneaux Islands is a cluster of 36 small islands in Lake Huron, Michigan's Upper Peninsula. These islands are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The Les Cheneaux Islands are located just a few miles northeast of Michigan’s famed Mackinac Bridge, which connects the state’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

Drummond Islands

Drummond Island, the second largest freshwater island in the United States, is home to 1,058 people. This island stands out for its closed-loop trail system, offering off-road adventures. Drummond Island has a diverse range of ecosystems. With over 13 distinct ecosystems, including six forest types, five swamp-marsh types, inland lakes and rivers, and cobble beaches, the island is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the richness and variety of its natural landscapes.

North & South Manitou Islands

North and South Manitou Islands are two islands situated within an island chain that stretches northward towards the Straits of Mackinac. South Manitou, located approximately 16 miles west of Leland, covers a land area of 8.277 square miles. On the other hand, North Manitou Island lies to the north, about 12 miles from Leland, and has a larger land area of 22.346 square miles.

Belle Isle

Located in the international waters of the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island park known as the "Jewel of Detroit." With its stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks like the Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, it offers a perfect urban oasis and cultural retreat for visitors to enjoy.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.