Cuyahoga Valley National Park, just south of nearby Cleveland, Ohio, is a sprawling wildlife refuge teeming with Ohio and Erie Canal and Cuyahoga Valley Railroad history. During your visit, walk along the famed canal on the Towpath Trail, paddle the Cuyahoga River and its lock system, horseback ride, or hike some of the 125 miles of trails through wetlands and woodlands.
Located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park offers 15,000 acres of rugged sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. The topographically diverse park has 15 miles of beach, six round-trip biking trails totaling 70 miles, canoeing and kayaking along multiple creeks and streams, 14 hiking trails covering 50 miles, and five historical houses dating to the 1933 Chicago World's Fair.
Accessible only by boat, secluded Isle Royale National Park north of Midland in the Upper Peninsula is a destination for true adventurers. The park sits on an archipelago in Lake Superior, offering overnight camping and boating by permit only. Take a rugged backpacking excursion through the dense forest, scuba dive the depths of Lake Superior, or canoe and portage across the many islands. It's a unique experience for day trippers or those looking for an extended backcountry experience.
Bay City State Park, less than 25 miles east of Midland, sits on Saginaw Bay. The park contains over 2,000 acres of wetland woods, cattail marshlands, and oak savannah prairies. There is a three-mile bike trail, 7 miles of hiking trails, and a fishing pier on Tobico Lagoon, which is home to pike, carp, bass, and panfish.
Rifle River State Recreation Area is 81 miles north of Midland via I-75. The park boasts 10 no-wake lakes and ponds for fishing, paddling, and swimming. You can enjoy the 14-mile multi-use trail and 3-D archery range with 10 different targets.
Sleepy Hollow State Park in nearby Laingsburg is a 2,600-acre park surrounding manmade Lake Ovid. Enjoy 16 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through prairie grassland, hardwood forest, and pine forest. There is a beach, and swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the 400-acre lake.
Dow Gardens in Midland is a 110-acre botanical garden and arboretum containing over 1,700 plant species. It offers guided and self-guided tours of the grounds.
The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio in Midland is a U.S. National Historic Landmark. You can tour the home of one of the pioneers of mid-20-century modern architecture and enjoy the blend of design and natural integration.
The Tridge is the three-legged wooden footbridge that spans the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers. It features a 31-foot central pillar that links three 180-foot-long spokes. The bridge connects parks on each side of the rivers' confluence.
There are excellent camping options throughout Michigan, whether you prioritize privacy or top-end amenities. Four Seasons RV Park off Route 10 in Midland has back-in and pull-through sites with full hookups. Enjoy the onsite pool and hot tub, Wi-Fi, and cable service, and fish in the 3-acre fully stocked pond.
Just 28 miles west of downtown Midland, Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park in Mount Pleasant offers its own clubhouse, private walking trails, a sauna facility, and a water park. The campground has full hookup sites on concrete pads. There is a 45-acre lake with a beach and a nearby casino.
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Midland, MI without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Midland, MI?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Midland, MI?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Midland, MI, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Midland, MI?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.