June is National Camping Month

June is National Camping Month, and it’s easy to see why! With schools out for the summer, families are eager to hit the road and dive into new adventures. The weather is perfect, the days are long, and it’s the ideal season for outdoor activities. Whether you’re a kid at heart or an adult, June is the time to play and explore the great outdoors.

So, what’s on your National Camping Month bucket list? Here are a few ideas to get you started—or to add a little extra fun to your existing plans.

1. Cook Over a Campfire

There’s something magical about food cooked over an open flame. And while s’mores are a must (seriously, is it even summer without them?), don’t stop there. Whether you’re using a grill, a Dutch oven, or a simple skewer, the campfire can transform any meal into a gourmet experience. From hearty breakfasts to delicious dinners, the possibilities are endless.

2. Visit a Waterfall

While spring might be the peak season for waterfall flows, summer offers some of the best views. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll find stunning waterfalls like Cascade Falls in Ontonagon, Bond Falls, Hungarian Falls, and the famous Tahquamenon Falls. If you’re in the Lower Peninsula, the Sunrise Side features gems like Ocqueoc Falls and Iargo Springs. Many of these waterfalls are easily accessible, often just a short walk from the parking lot. This guide can help you find the perfect waterfall to fit your travel and camping plans.

3. Walk a Covered Bridge

Covered bridges are charming relics of a bygone era, now serving as historic landmarks. They were originally built with covers to protect the wooden structures from the elements. Today, they offer a nostalgic glimpse into the past. In Michigan, you can visit beautiful covered bridges such as the Augusta Covered Bridge in Kalamazoo County, the Fallsburg Covered Bridge in Lowell, the Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge in Sleeping Bear Dunes, Whites Bridge in Ionia, and the White Pine Trail Covered Bridge in Reed City.

4. Canoe or Kayak Down a River

Michigan isn’t just about the Great Lakes; it’s also home to an extensive network of rivers and streams. Canoeing or kayaking is a fantastic way to spend a day, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there’s a river that’s perfect for you. Don’t have your own kayak or canoe? No worries! Many liveries rent out equipment and provide everything you need. Popular rivers to explore include the Turnip River, Lansing River, Platte River, Huron River, and Au Sable River.

5. Watch the Sunset from a Beach

There’s nothing quite like watching a sunset from a beach. Find a spot along one of Michigan’s Great Lakes coastlines or at an inland lake. Arrive early, settle in with a chair and your favorite beverage, and let the beauty of the setting sun wash over you. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, breathe in the fresh summer air, and let yourself be fully present in the moment. Resist the urge to take photos—this experience is about feeling happy, free, and grateful for the natural beauty around you.

June is a month filled with promise and the excitement of an endless summer. Whether you’re at a campsite or exploring different parts of the state, take the time to savor every moment. These experiences are the ones that make lasting memories. Happy National Camping Month! Where will your adventures take you? Let us know in the comments below!