Five Last-Minute Great Lakes Camping Trips

Derrek Sigler
by Derrek Sigler
By Elijah Lovkoff/Shutterstock.com


If you are looking for a quick getaway in your RV, the Great Lakes region more to offer than just about anywhere in North America.


I may be a little biased living in the area, but the Great Lakes Region of North America is a wonderful area for a last-minute camping trip. There are ample campgrounds, amazing scenery and friendly people. Only have a couple days to spare? No problem, there are plenty of places to go and activities to entertain. Here are five Great Lakes camping getaways you should consider for some vacation fun.

Not close to the Great Lakes? No worries. You can fly into the region and rent an RV. It’s easy and fun and a great way to explore one of these amazing locations.

Elora Gorge

Near Guelph and just an hour and a half from Toronto, Elora Gorge Recreational Area in Ontario, Canada offers amazing scenery, small-town charm and kayaking and tubing opportunities that will thrill and amaze anyone. Limited campsites at the Gorge can make it tricky to get in, but ample camping in the area means you should have no troubles making this trip happen. Fall colors are mind-blowing, too, so make your plans and get going. Click here for more information.

Niagra Falls, New York

Could there be a more famous set of waterfalls anywhere? Not a chance. Niagra Falls was once the most popular honeymoon spot and is still a great getaway for anyone and everyone. There are plenty of camping opportunities near the falls and you’ll definitely want to take the boat ride up to the falls edge. So how much water is flowing over the falls? Try 84,756 cubic-feet per second. That’s a lot of water! The Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States. You’ll find plenty of information and activities in the park to make the trip worthwhile, too. Click here for more information in camping opportunities in the area.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising, Michigan

By John McCormick/Shutterstock.com

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is what happens when the might of Lake Superior meets with the sandstone rock pushed up during the last Ice Age. The cliffs and formations are often listed among the most scenic places in North America and the region is one of the most special places for fall colors anywhere. The immense power of Lake Superior in the fall is legendary and worth the trip just to watch the crashing waves. The nearby town of Munising is warm and inviting and you’ll find anything you need for a fun adventure. Make sure this trip is on your bucket list. Spend the day hiking the numerous trails along the lakeshore, or if you’re brave, take a kayak or boat tour to view the formations from the Lake Superior side. Click here for more information.

Duluth, Minnesota

It used to be that you’d hear about Duluth, Minnesota every year, not for the amazing scenery and abundant outdoor activities, but because of the mind-numbing cold they often experience in the winter months. The truth is, Duluth is an outdoor wonderland with miles of amazing coastline along Lake Superior’s western-most end. View the last freighters of season take off, experience the color change and enjoy the wonderful people of Minnesota. There are ample campgrounds in the area and some truly amazing food and entertainment. Click here for more information.

Door County, Wisconsin

By Keth Lens/Shutterstock.com

East out of Green Bay will get you up into Door County, Wisconsin’s most scenic area, or at least one of them. Ample camping is available and there is much to do and enjoy. Door County is Wisconsin’s fruit-growing mecca for tree fruits like apples, and there are numerous wineries, farm markets and you-pick orchards. The fall colors are stellar and something you simply must experience. And even if you’re not a football fan, while in green Bay, you should go to Lambeau Field. It is a very interesting place for all. For the kids, there are numerous zoos, many free of charge in the area and let’s not forget cheese! Make sure you get your hands on some squeaky cheese curds fresh from the vat. Click here for more information.

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