A-frames near Alpena with fishing

Leave it to the lakeside vacation town of Alpena to serve up the best of Lake Huron. Hugging the shores of Thunder Bay, this Michigan town is a mecca for water activities like kayaking, fishing, and boating. Onshore, historic lighthouses and state forest treks ignite your adventurer's spirit.

Thanks to Alpena's healthy influx of tourists, Northwoods camping is easy to find. Make your home base in one of the state parks, county parks, or RV parks. You can even pitch a tent at the Alpena County Fairgrounds.

If you want to catch your dinner, head to Long Lake County Park. Besides excellent walleye fishing, the lake also has waterfront campsites and some great swimming holes. A short drive inland brings you to Ossineke State Forest. The rustic sites here are the envy of hardcore tent campers.

Once you're settled in, rent a boat (or bring your own) to explore the Lake Huron shoreline. Are you looking for more adventure? Hop on the Thunder Bay River for a day of kayaking or canoeing. Paddling gear can be rented at a local canoe livery. Hint—the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary along the river is a great birding spot.

Alpena is a true wilderness paradise in Michigan. As a result, parks here are in high demand—it's not uncommon to see campsites for July filling up by January. If you want to camp in the summer or fall, booking early is a must.

Want to escape the crowds? Don't throw out the idea of a winter trip. You can always retreat to a heated cabin after a day of cross-country skiing or ice fishing.