Fall in Michigan is a glorious visual display, and many would argue it’s the best season of all because of the fiery scenery, cooler temperatures, and less crowded campgrounds. What are some of the best things to do during autumn in the Mitten State? We offer some advice to help you get started.
Go salmon fishing.
From late August until November is the best time for salmon fishing in Michigan, with September and October providing the more ample opportunity for King and Coho salmon. The Manistee and Pere Marquette rivers are hot spots for anglers. Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Huron also hold their fair share. Check with the local DNR office or ask around at the local fishing shop for the best suggestions.
Hike waterfront trails.
You’ll experience Michigan in a whole new way when you hike beside the water in the autumn. The contrast of the blue water against the yellows, oranges, and reds paint an almost magical scene, including in the reflection. Waterfront trails worth visiting include those around the Au Sable River, the Detroit Riverwalk, Sleeping Bear Point Trail that runs along Lake Michigan, Lighthouse Trail in Ludington State Park, and the five-mile Tahquamenon Falls State Park River Trail. Honestly, though, there are dozens of waterfront trails. Perhaps revisit a favorite summer trail and see it with new eyes in a new season.
Wander through a corn maze.
In the Upper Peninsula, you can visit Hayes Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Rock. In Grand Traverse County in Northwest Michigan, you’ll find Jacob’s Corn Maze, which has a mini corn maze that’s perfect for young kids as well as a large one. Frankenmuth Corn Maze in mid-Michigan offers a treasure hunt with mysteries to solve. There are games and farm animals to visit, too. Down near Ann Arbor, in South-Central Michigan, is Debuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch has three challenge levels, plus human foosball, rat races, pedal go carts, slides, and play areas. A corn maze is a great way to spend time outdoors and have a little fun.
Try sky walking.
A more active pursuit than your standard stargazing, sky walking combines stargazing with a nighttime hike. With the trails fairly deserted, you can take in the night sky at your leisure. The time between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice can be a magical time and ideal for sky walking. Here are some spots in Michigan where you could explore this latest outdoor activity.
Get in one last camping trip.
There are some private campgrounds, like those hosted by our members that are open year-round; however, many are open only until the end of October. Fall activities and Halloween celebrations are often taking place, so it can be an extra fun time for the family, though there are special considerations to take if you’ll be fall camping with kids. The colors are just one reason to keep the camper out for a couple extra weekends, but the reduced crowds and cooler temperatures are popular reasons, too. Here are six reasons why fall camping is the best idea ever.
Winterize the RV.
After you’ve had your fun, and if you aren’t planning on going to warmer climates, it’s time to get the RV ready for winter. There are some typical tune-up tasks you should take care of before it’s ready for its long nap, including washing it thoroughly, inspecting all the seals, change the oil, and more – details can be found here. Then there are the steps you should take to fully winterize your RV: dry the water lines, clean cabinets and appliances, take steps to prevent pests, covering an RV, and more. If you take care of your RV well in the fall, you’ll be in better shape when spring rolls around – and have less to take care of when it’s time for your first camping trip.
Start planning for next year.
RVing and camping have grown in popularity for many years, the past two years in particular. With renewed interest in travel and being outdoors, it’s safe to say that competition for camping spots will continue in Michigan. So start making your plans for next season right now. You may already be able to reserve a campsite at a private campground such as those belonging to our members (what’s the difference between a private campground and a public one?), but if not, making your plans and knowing when you can make a reservation are key to fulfilling your camping dreams next year.