Best family camping spots in the Midwest and Great Lakes region

Ludington State Park

Considered by many to be the best state park in the Midwest, Michigan's 5,300-acre Ludington State Park features sand dunes, marshlands, hardwood forests and almost seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Perfect for camping, hiking, boating and fishing, this gorgeous state park also offers summer concerts, bike trails, a lighthouse, Hamlin Lake, Big Sable River and other attractions and activities. The park is home to three campgrounds -- Pines, Cedars and Beachwood -- with more than 350 campsites.

Saxon Harbor County Park

Located on Lake Superior's Oronto Bay in Wisconsin, this park is known for its camping sites, deep-water fishing and sandy beach for swimming. It also offers a protected bay for kayaking and other fun water activities. The campgrounds at Saxon Harbor County Park are first-come, first-served and can be crowded during summer weekends, so arrive early or come during the week instead.

Orchard Beach State Park

Michigan's beautiful Orchard Beach State Park is situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. Its campsites are almost all reservable, so be sure to make reservations several months in advance of your trip. Orchard Beach State Park is relatively small (201 acres), located just north of the quaint town of Manistee. A stairway leads from the campground to the beach, which is generally less crowded than other Michigan beaches.

Voyageurs National Park

If you're headed to Minnesota for your vacation, consider camping at Rainy Lake in Voyageurs National Park. Located on the Kabetogama Peninsula, its campsites are only accessible by boat. If you're looking for a private place to camp, hike, canoe and fish, this beautiful area is the right place. Voyageurs National Park also offers guided boat tours and nature programs throughout the summer months.

Meramec State Park

This 6,896-acre park in Missouri is a fun destination for adults and kids of all ages. The park features the Meramec River, Fisher Cave, beautiful bluffs, amazing hiking trails and much more. Canoeing, rafting and boating are very popular on the river. Located approximately 60 miles southwest of St. Louis, Meramec State Park offers tent camping, Ozarks-style cabins and other amenities. It also features a fully stocked store, casual dining a motel and more.

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