We'd like to spend 4-5 days in or around the Traverse City, MI area this summer. Travel dates are flexible. We have a Vista 29VE, will be towing a Kia Soul, don't have kids but might be traveling with our dog. Any recommendations on campgrounds in the area? We're new to this, so looking for a campground that doesn't require expert driving skills to get in and out.
Also any tips on safely crossing the Mackinaw Bridge would be welcome
I’ve not stayed in TC proper but in the area nearby as a base camp to travel all around. There are options that are super deluxe like Hearthside Grove in Petoskey to State Parks like Traverse City State Park.
What kind of park are you looking for? I know you are just getting your motorhome, but do you have a preference or budget in mind?
As for driving skills, stop stressing. At first it will seem huge and scary but in just a day or two it will seem “normal”. The only way to get used to it is to just do it. When in tight spots I tell myself “this is not a timed event” - meaning, there is no reason not to go slow. If I hold up traffic or others tough. They will just have to wait. The other thing I tell myself is GOAL - meaning, Get Out And Look. Don’t guess it’s going to fit, clear or avoid obstacles. If you have any doubts GOAL.
As for driving the bridge, just go for it. One lane is concrete the other open grate “singing” bridge. We stayed on the concrete lane which is the outside lane. At first my wife wanted to be on the inside lane away from the edge. But when she could see the water underneath the grated section she changed her mind. Either side was fine with me.
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2017 Winnebago Adventurer 37F
2016 Lincoln MKX Toad
When in tight spots I tell myself “this is not a timed event” - meaning, there is no reason not to go slow...The other thing I tell myself is GOAL - meaning, Get Out And Look. Don’t guess it’s going to fit, clear or avoid obstacles. If you have any doubts GOAL.
This is great advice! And thanks for the recommendations. We stayed in Petosky with our popup - hadn't even considered that! Lovely area.
We have stayed at both Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park (once) and Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort (twice), and liked both places, though I preferred Timber Ridge as it had full-service sites whereas the State Park only had water and electric (had to use the dump station.) The State Park was closed for a period of time last year for some upgrades, so I can't say how it is now. It is right across the street from the bay and you can walk to a little beach area, and downtown is not far away. Timber Ridge is a little farther away from downtown, but still pretty close, plus they have a few more things to do in their campground. We have a 27' Winnie Minnie Plus travel trailer.
If money is no issue, Traverse Bay RV Resort is beautiful but about $100/night. It is convenient to Turtle Creek Casino/Resort. It is very big rig friendly.