Hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes along Lake Michigan — Hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes

When planning your next family vacation, don’t overlook Northern Michigan. While most travelers think of Florida’s sandy beaches, the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park, or the misty Acadia National Park, Northern Michigan offers something just as spectacular—and closer to home for many U.S. travelers.

Once you experience Michigan’s magic, from its stunning shorelines to its endless outdoor activities, you’ll want to make it a yearly tradition. Here’s an indepth look at some of Northern Michigan’s best places to visit: Traverse City, hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Petoskey and more!

Note that even if you aren’t a camper, visiting the state parks is often where it’s at!

Traverse City, Michigan camping and Exploring Surrounding Areas

Traverse City, tucked along the sparkling shores of Grand Traverse Bay, is a Northern Michigan gem with something for everyone. Whether you’re camping under the stars or kicking back in a cozy hotel or Airbnb, this place has it all. From sandy beaches and wooded trails to lively cultural attractions, Traverse City is the perfect mix of nature and city vibes. It’s great for families who want a laid-back getaway or for those who love an endless list of things to do. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, touristy hotspots, or a little of both, Traverse City has you covered.

Traverse City State Park

Cherries for sale in Northern Michigan — Traverse City Cherries

Just minutes from downtown, Traverse City State Park is a go-to spot for families, thanks to its easy access and great amenities. The park has a sandy beach on Grand Traverse Bay, perfect for kids to splash around, build sandcastles, or watch the sailboats pass by. Picnic areas with grills make it simple to enjoy lunch by the water, and nearby trails are great for a relaxed hike or bike ride. Being so close to downtown means you’re just a quick drive from local shops, restaurants, and Traverse City’s famous cherry-themed fun. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a historic spot now filled with cool boutiques, delicious eateries, and scenic walking trails. Traverse City, Michigan camping offers the perfect mix of outdoor fun and city life! Check out our ultimate family camping checklist if you are up for the challenge!

Hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes: Family-Friendly Adventures

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan — Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Just a short drive from Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes is packed with family-friendly hikes and unforgettable experiences. It’s a place where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views in the Midwest. Here are three must-visit trails and activities that are perfect for adventurers of all ages.

Pyramid Point Trail

This 2.7-mile loop is great for families, with a short path leading to a lookout point just 0.6 miles from the trailhead. The view at the top is absolutely worth it—sand dunes, islands, and Lake Michigan’s incredible shades of blue all laid out in front of you. It’s the kind of sight that stops you in your tracks and sticks with you. Just a heads-up: poison ivy is pretty common in this area, so keep an eye out and remember, “Leaves of three, let it be!”

Empire Bluff Trail

If you’re up for a shorter hike, the Empire Trail is one of the best hikes at sleeping bear dunes. It’s a 1.5-mile round trip, and while it’s a little hilly, most families can handle it and finish in under an hour. The payoff? A high overlook with a view that looks straight out of a postcard. Pack a lunch and take your time at the top—there are benches and open spaces perfect for kicking back and soaking in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. From the clear blue water to the jaw-dropping sunsets, this trail is one you won’t forget.

Dune Climb

For a hands-on adventure, check out the Dune Climb, a favorite spot where kids (and grown-ups!) can have a blast scrambling up the soft, sandy slopes. There’s a picnic area at the bottom, perfect for taking a break and recharging while the kids keep going. The climb rewards you with an incredible view of Glen Lake, and the run back down? Pure fun.

Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan — Sleeping Bear Dunes

If you’ve got extra time and energy, you can hike across the dunes all the way to Lake Michigan. It’s about a 3-4 hour trek, so come prepared with plenty of water and a sense of adventure—it’s not an easy walk through the loose sand, but it’s totally worth it.

Whether you’re climbing the dunes, soaking in stunning views, or sharing a picnic with loved ones, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a place that truly has something special for everyone.

Interlochen State Park

If your family is looking for a nature-filled escape, Interlochen State Park is the perfect spot. Tucked between Green Lake and Duck Lake, it’s surrounded by woods and water, with plenty of chances for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The hiking trails wind through beautiful forested areas, making it easy to unplug and enjoy some peace and quiet. What really sets this place apart is its closeness to the Interlochen Center for the Arts, where you can catch concerts, art exhibits, and performances throughout the year. It’s the best of both worlds—outdoor fun mixed with a little culture—making it a camping destination your family won’t forget.

Wilderness State Park: Near Mackinaw City

3 boys on the beach at Wilderness State Park, Michigan — Wilderness State Park

If you’re after a more rustic vibe, Wilderness State Park, just west of Mackinaw City, is a fantastic choice. With over 10,000 acres of forest and shoreline along Lake Michigan, the park offers a mix of modern and backcountry camping, so you can choose the experience you want. There are 26 miles of trails, making it a paradise for hikers and wildlife lovers. The beaches are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. And if you’re lucky enough to have a clear night, the dark skies here are amazing for stargazing—it’s one of the best parts of camping in this spot. This has always been one of our favorite places to camp—not just in Michigan, but in the whole country. There’s just something special about it!

We always like to explore Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island. Here are some great tour options to enjoy, as well! This area is so unique and seeing it from this angle is truly incredible:

Discover the Hidden Treasures of Petoskey and Beyond

The sunsetting over the water in Petoskey, Michigan — Petoskey Sunset

The Petoskey area is packed with things to do, whether you’re an outdoor lover or just looking for fun family activities. We’ve visited Petoskey several times, and I even went there on a girls' trip—it’s an amazing town! From hunting for Petoskey stones to exploring all the cool nearby spots, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of Michigan. Petoskey is a perfect combination of city entertainment, while still having that small town michigan charm so many people are searching for.

Avalanche Mountain Preserve

If you love the outdoors, Avalanche Mountain Preserve is a must-visit. This 300-acre spot has it all—hiking, biking, and even disc golf. In the warmer months, you’ll find trails for every level, from easy flat paths to steep inclines. There’s even a 9K, 4-loop system that’s great for mountain bikers and trail runners. If you’re up for the challenge, the 462-step climb to the top is totally worth it—the view of Lake Charlevoix from up there is absolutely stunning.

Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park, right on Petoskey’s waterfront, is a great spot for families. It’s got a playground for the kids, a well-kept public shoreline, and a pedestrian tunnel that takes you straight to Downtown Petoskey’s Gaslight District. While it’s not the best for swimming, the rocky shoreline near the Petoskey Breakwall is one of the best places to find petoskey stones. With 7,800 feet of shoreline and beautiful views, it’s the perfect place to unwind or take a relaxing stroll.

Beaver Island Boat Company

For a one-of-a-kind adventure, catch a ferry with the Beaver Island Boat Company for a scenic ride from Charlevoix to Beaver Island, often called the “Emerald Isle.” Once you’re there, you’ll have plenty to do—hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, and even scuba diving if you’re feeling adventurous. You can check out lighthouses, explore lakes, visit museums, or take a guided tour to really soak in the island’s peaceful, laid-back vibe. It’s a stunning destination that’s worth the trip!

Harbor Springs

Just a quick drive from Petoskey, Harbor Springs is a cozy lakeside town packed with things to do. You’ll find waterfront concerts, art fairs, kayaking, and fishing, plus plenty of chances for beach time, hiking, and biking along the Little Traverse Wheelway. Golfing and sailing are also big here, and the town’s picture-perfect setting makes it a great spot for families and anyone looking for a little adventure. It’s definitely worth the visit!

Northern Michigan is just one piece of the puzzle that makes this state unforgettable. Embark on a road trip along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, stopping at some of the best beach towns before heading north to the Upper Peninsula and the breathtaking Pictured Rocks. Along the way, make sure to have a Traverse City, Michigan camping experience to explore this incredible area! Once you experience the beauty of Northern Michigan, you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Ready to embark on more midwest getaways? Check out our Weekend Trip Ideas for inspiration!

Explore Petoskey, Hikes at Sleeping Bear Dunes and Michigan