Embarking on a 7-day RV adventure offers the perfect blend of exploration and comfort, allowing you to experience the Midwest’s natural beauty at your own pace. For a destination within a 3 to 5-hour drive from Chicago, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan stands out as an exceptional choice.
Destination: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Located approximately 5 hours northeast of Chicago, Sleeping Bear Dunes boasts stunning landscapes, including towering sand dunes, lush forests, and pristine beaches along Lake Michigan. The area offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, kayaking, and wildlife observation.
Campground: Platte River Campground
Platte River Campground, situated within the national lakeshore, provides a range of amenities suitable for RV travelers. The campground offers sites with electric hookups, modern restrooms, and a dump station. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
7-Day Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Departure
- Morning: Begin your journey by heading east on I-94 toward Michigan.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Platte River Campground and set up your RV.
- Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the Platte River and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Day 2: Dune Exploration
- Morning: Hike the Dune Climb, a popular trail offering panoramic views of the area.
- Afternoon: Visit the Dune Center to learn about the park’s geology and ecology.
- Evening: Relax at your campsite and enjoy a campfire under the stars.
- Day 3: Scenic Drive and Beach Day
- Morning: Drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7.4-mile route with breathtaking overlooks.
- Afternoon: Spend time at Esche Road Beach, known for its clear waters and sandy shores.
- Evening: Dine at a local restaurant in nearby Glen Arbor.
- Day 4: Kayaking Adventure
- Morning: Rent kayaks and paddle along the Crystal River, a gentle and scenic waterway.
- Afternoon: Explore the quaint shops and galleries in Leland’s Fishtown.
- Evening: Return to the campground for a restful night.
- Day 5: Island Exploration
- Morning: Take a ferry to South Manitou Island for a day of hiking and exploration.
- Afternoon: Visit the island’s historic lighthouse and shipwreck sites.
- Evening: Return to the mainland and relax at your campsite.
- Day 6: Forest Trails and Wine Tasting
- Morning: Hike the Empire Bluff Trail for stunning lake vistas.
- Afternoon: Visit local wineries along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset picnic at Good Harbor Bay.
- Day 7: Return
- Morning: Pack up your campsite and begin the journey back to Chicago.
- Afternoon: Consider a stop in Holland, MI, to explore its Dutch heritage.
- Evening: Arrive back, concluding your memorable trip.
Additional Tips
- Reservations: Secure your campsite in advance through the National Park Service reservation system.
- Park Pass: An entrance pass is required for the national lakeshore; consider purchasing it online beforehand.
- Weather: Check the local weather forecast before your trip to pack appropriately.
Embarking on this 7-day RV journey to Sleeping Bear Dunes offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in Michigan’s natural beauty. Enjoy the diverse activities and create lasting memories on your road trip!