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www.mybaycity.com May 27, 2013
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Nothing like a watching the Big Dipper on a star filled night. (MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Memorial Weekend- The Opener for Camping Season

May 27, 2013       Leave a Comment
By: John Keuvelaar

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Are you the kind of person that enjoys the early morning scent of fresh brewed coffee drifting through the trees? Do you appreciate the sounds of birds singing away in the morning stillness? Or maybe an evening sunset followed by a crackling fire is more to your liking?

If any of these activities puts a smile on your face, then you are probably one of thousands of people who joined the steady stream of vehicles traveling up north on I-75 headed for their favorite camping places.


First camp fire of the camping season.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Have a fun and great time this memorial weekend.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Memorial Weekend has turned into more than honoring those that have served our country. Beyond the official opening of bass season, it has also evolved into the unofficial opener to our summer camping season. Thousands of travelers migrate north to their favorite lake or wooded area to escape from the rigors of everyday life and enjoy peace and serenity at a different level.

Over the years, camping has evolved into an activity that embraces our many tastes in life. For some, it is still the getting back to nature where life is more primitive with cooking over an open fire, chopping your own firewood, carrying your "home" on your back while walking through the countryside and sleeping on the ground.

For others, it is about taking our creature comforts from home and taking them with us in trailers, campers and fifth wheels. And for most, camping is somewhere in between as families seek out their own "slice of heaven" as they simplify life and travel to the special place that lets them unwind even for a few days.


Nothing like a night time cruise.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Fishing Time!
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Campgrounds have evolved too in keeping pace with the campers' ever changing style. While there are still rustic facilities with pit toilets and hand pump water sources as being the only amenities, most campgrounds feature at the very least clean, warm and well maintained shower and bathroom facilities. Some are more "community" oriented while others offer a variety of activities for all ages and levels of interests. Whatever your style or comfort level is, camping is a great and affordable way for families to get away from it all without breaking the bank.


Tahquamenon falls has a great campground. But watch out for the racoons.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Sunset through a thunderhead. Camping past.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

For many campers, meals are more of an activity than just chasing away the hungry monster. Special recipes are created with minimal ingredients and aluminum foil that become cherished memories and greatly anticipated traditions. Hobo pies and s'mores are just a tip of the iceberg when it comes to camping food. And if you are really roughing it, ready made meals that only need hot water to bring them to life are not only available, but very very tasty and affordable.


Remember to share the fun with your pets.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

With today's economy, camping has become an affordable alternative to the higher prices associated with staying at hotels and eating out. The money saved when traveling on meals and lodging allows travelers to spread their hard earned dollars on more fun activities while offering an alternative to sitting on the bed in the evening and watching tv. Some campgrounds including the Michigan State Parks and KOA campgrounds offer cabins and yurts for those either traveling lighter or wishing a more unique travel experience.


Writing with lights is one of our favorite night time activities.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)

Mysteries of the night.
(MyBayCity Photo by John Keuvelaar)


Over the summer, we would like to hear your camping thoughts. Please share your favorite recipes, locations, experiences and activities with us including any helpful ideas or tips for other campers. Send your stories to jkeuvelaarbayapa@yahoo.com and share your fun with camping. And please, send along some pictures that you don't mind sharing online. Let's share our camping fun this summer.



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John Keuvelaar

John Keuvelaar is a college student at Midwest Photography Workshops and Delta College.

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