Winding Down

It’s that time of year again, time to begin thinking about putting away the camper – that is, unless you’re one of the thousands of Snowbirders who are getting ready to go to warmer climates for the winter. But if you’re not one of those who are living the winter in their RV, and you are in cold weather, then yes, it is that time.

But before you start winterizing your unit, think about a few last weekend trips to some of your favorite places. Even though the nights may be cooler, that doesn’t mean that adding a sweatshirt and sitting around the bonfire is out of the question. And, just think, the fall colors will be there to greet you each morning of your stay.

So, don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your RV winterized. Instead, slow down and enjoy the sights from your home on wheels. Here are a few parks to consider for prime fall viewing:

Michigan may be cold in its northern edges, but the leaves are beautiful when they’re blazing in reds, oranges and yellows.

Head north to Cheboygan where you can experience fall in its splendor at Waterways Campground, www.waterwayscampground.com. The campground is on the Inland Waterways of Cheboygan where you can pull in your rig or even tent and you’re your boat out from the dock at the park.

The campground offers a store and allows pets and is equestrian friendly. Hiking and biking trails are available to view the fall colors, as well as fishing.

Maine is always considered prime fall viewing, so consider Riverbend Campground in Leeds, Maine. The park offers partially wooded or riverfront sites and is prime for fall foliage.

There’s a camp store and fishing available, as well as kayaking and canoeing for the adventurous. Pets are welcome.

Minnesota is home to more than lakes, but don’t forget to fish those, too. Take some time to enjoy autumn.

The Vagabond Village Campground in Park Rapids, Minn. offers campers beautiful Birch and Pine trees overlooking Potato Lake. Don’t forget your fishing gear. A boat launch is available and those who enjoy boating and kayaking or canoeing can rent them on site. Pets are also welcome here.

If you don’t want to travel that far north, consider West Virginia. It’s country landscape and fall colors are exquisite.

Mountain Lake Campground & Cabins in Summersville, W.Va. is near the marina. Enjoy fishing and hiking and biking on the trails. Pets are welcome.
So, remember, just because the days are shorter and brisker, there’s still time to enjoy camping and RVing around the country, but don’t wait too long. Many campgrounds close in October and you’ll be stuck waiting for next year.