Grand Haven State Park

September 5, 2021 Grand Haven, MI I can once again thank Labor Day weekend for a packed park. We pull into our campsite, which once again seems to be one of only a few empty ones. It’s truly just a parking spot with a small stretch of sand behind. Gob doesn’t care. As soon asContinue reading “Grand Haven State Park”

Hoffmaster State Park

September 5, 2021 Muskegon, MI Now caffeinated and breakfasted, we are ready for our second hike of the day. Gob is excited for the promise of another dip in Lake Michigan. We are both nervous to be back among the dunes. But thankfully these are much nicer on my calves. As we make it toContinue reading “Hoffmaster State Park”

Petoskey State Park

August 7, 2021 Petoskey, MI I say Pet”oh”skey, you say Pet”ah”skey. Honestly, we’re probably both wrong. What I do know about Petoskey is that as soon as I enter city limits I move at half-speed. We stop downtown first for coffee and food (breakfast burritos). We end up wondering around long enough that I needContinue reading “Petoskey State Park”

Fisherman’s Island State Park

August 6, 2021 Charlevoix, MI After 3 miles slogging through a bog, Mason was very excited to hear that we were just going to plop on a beach for a while. I wanted to walk the beach, and I figured Gob would come with me. But Gob much preferred to join Mason for some yoga.Continue reading “Fisherman’s Island State Park”

Van Buren State Park

5/22/2021 South Haven, MI It is hot. Summer has finally arrived, and it did not come gently. After a short half mile hike, we can finally see the water waving at us. Gob is eager. I release him, and he dives straight in much to the delight of several onlookers. Hard to believe this adventurousContinue reading “Van Buren State Park”

Holland State Park

5/1/2021 Holland, MI Famished, because we are always ready for our next meal, we pull into the campsite. Gob quickly scarfs his chicken and rice. Mason similarly scarfs his ribs. A short jaunt down to the beach while the boys napped in the car. A sign on the gate of the pier gave caution. WhichContinue reading “Holland State Park”

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

5/1/2021 Saugatuck Dunes, MI We pass multiple signs drawing our attention to paths that are not marked trails. I’m not sure if they are meant to deter or entice adventures. We stick to the marked trail this time. As the pine trees fade behind us, sand infiltrates my shoes. It begins to drizzle. I repeatedlyContinue reading “Saugatuck Dunes State Park”

Cheboygan State Park

3/20/2021 Cheboygan, MI Hey, it’s Che-boy-again. Our last minute addition to the itinerary. We abruptly turned into the park as we approached. A snoozing Gob is startled awake by the change in direction. As we approach the trail head parking lot, he appears unconvinced that another hike is necessary. I roll his window down, andContinue reading “Cheboygan State Park”

Sleeper State Park

2/20/2021 Caseville, MI I guess this is Michigan’s take on “white sand dunes” – at least in the winter. A quick hop over the pedestrian bridge, and we were transported to trails and campsites. I imagine this to be the perfect weekend getaway when it’s warm and sunny. The campground has an adorable lending libraryContinue reading “Sleeper State Park”

Grand Mere State Park

1/16/2021 Stevensville, MI A mere 15 minutes from our winter wonderland we are transported to a sandy beach devoid of snow. You would hardly believe it was January so long as you stay out of the water. One Gander said it best, “It’s January and I’m hunting rocks!” Interested in checking out this park? FindContinue reading “Grand Mere State Park”