Mid-October Michigan vacation?

[bobotron3000]

Thinking about spending 2-3 days in early to mid-October somewhere in Michigan (traveling from Ohio). We would like to do some outdoorsy things - possibly including camping but not sure. Basically looking for a relaxing couple days spent in nature with beautiful scenery Any suggestions?

[hz80408]

Indiana Dunes is gorgeous and allows camping!

[Deleted]

How far are you looking to drive? I used to live in the U.P. and it is by far my favorite part of Michigan. The Hiking is great. However, it mid-October it is likely (almost certain) that there will be at least some snow.

[bobotron3000]

hz80408 - Indiana Dunes look beautiful! Checking it out.

kjewell - I want to visit the UP next summer. I'm definitely not ready for snow that early I'd like to keep the drive to less than 5 hours since it's only a trip for a few days.

[hz80408]

I'll also note that Dunes say no alcohol, but we've found that if it's just us (H and I), we have no issues bringing in alocohol to drink casually

[definitelyO]

will you go to a cider mill for me? I miss them so much!!

[keweenawlove]

The UP was my first thought too (another Yopper here!) but I agree with PP. It's far for that short of a trip and you're getting into the time of year it could be beautiful but there could be 2 feet of snow. I don't think you can go too wrong anywhere on Lake Michigan. I'll add Travese City to the list too. There's a lot of wineries in the area too.

[winnied]

West Michigan is beautiful and much more manageable for your versus the UP. I love Saugatuck and there is a place nearby called Crane's Pie Pantry that has a fun corn maze (like you have to answer actually difficult questions to get out) and they have great pies. Fenn Valley is a winery nearby. Saugatuck and nearby town Douglas are very cute and fun.

[pantsparty]

How about northern Michigan? The Petoskey and Traverse City areas will be gorgeous during the fall.

[bobotron3000]

Thank you guys for the great suggestions! I'm saving all the UP suggestions for when we have a longer vacation. Excited to check out the rest of the ideas!

[Pom]

Burt Lake State Park, Indian River, Mi is a great park right on the lake. (and also close to my vacation home, so I might be biased, LOL). You can do a lot of day trips from there. I also like Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, Petoskey, Traverse City, Harbor Springs and especially Charlevoix. There are lots of great parks in these areas and it's an easy drive from many parts of Ohio.