We’ve covered Southwest Michigan, which is a great option for new campers looking to get out of whichever city (Detroit, Chicago, Gary, etc) they are living in. Easy access to hiking, swimming and towns make Southwest Michigan really lovely and relaxing! If you’re looking for more of an intense trip that requires skills and planning but still has the comfort of local weekend camping, national parks are a great option!

National Parks offer more in the way of backcountry camping, which is a cute way of letting you know that you won’t be dealing with RVs, campgrounds, bathrooms and a lot attendant making sure you GTFO of your site at checkout time. Camping in a national park requires lots more planning, mapping, and gear because you’ll most likely be Out There on  your own dealing with the elements without the benefit of a cooler or smart phone or nearby vehicle.

In the next few posts, I’m going to get into the logistics of backcountry (or dispersed) camping in national parks to help you get yourself mentally, physically, and literally geared up for a trek into the wilderness!