Michigan is a state filled with outdoor adventures… and the Upper Peninsula is no exception to that rule. Especially right now when the weather is so unbelievably perfect outside. The skies are bright blue, the clouds are fluffy, and the rainy days are few and far between.
Well, if you’re looking for a new place to visit for an outdoor adventure in Michigan, I have a park to tell you about.
Van Riper State Park is located in Champion, Michigan. Just 35 miles west of Marquette, this exquisite park is located on the shores of the Pesheekee River and Lake Michigan.
There are a variety of ways to explore this gorgeous Michigan State Park. You can choose to hike on trails filled with beautiful nature. Or you can take a slow ride in your car, where - if conditions are right - you might just encounter a moose!
If your outdoor adventure in Michigan includes some swimming time, Van Riper State Park is a perfect choice. With 1.5 miles of waterfront, this Michigan State Park is a popular spot for swimming for locals and visitors alike.
The shoreline is sandy - almost reminiscent of a traditional coastline beach. Even better, unlike the chilly temperatures of Lake Superior, the water at Van Riper State Park's swimming beach is moderate... some days you could even call it warm!
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If you prefer to be on the water instead of in the water, don't worry, Van Riper Park in Champion, Michigan has you covered there, as well.
Bonus: there is an accessible boat/kayak launch (as well as wheelchair-accessible restrooms), so that everyone can get in on this incredible outdoor adventure in Michigan. Everyone deserves to have a good time, after all!
The fishing isn't too shabby at Van Riper State Park, either. Anglers report catching crappie, pike, perch, and walleye.
You can cook up your own catch of the day at one of the picnic areas, which come equipped with charcoal grills. Or, you make a weekend adventure of it and stay overnight at one of the campgrounds onsite.
There are a few different types of camping offered at Van Riper State Park. You can rough it in one of the majestic campground's rustic sites, or hook up your RV to one of the campsites with 50-amp service.
No matter how you decide to experience this adventure-filled state park in Michigan, the views are sure to astound. From the changing leaves of fall to the first buds of spring, everywhere you look in this park is a photo-worthy view.
This lovely Michigan State Park was named after a local doctor, Dr. Paul Van Riper, who served the community by practicing medicine and participating in local politics.
In fact, it was Dr. Van Riper who convinced a private business to turn the land that the park currently sits on over to the township so that they could create a public park.
I like to think he'd be pleased that people are enjoying this 1,100-acre all year round. Especially when they are able to capture pics as magical as the mushroom pictured above.
Adventure means something different to everyone. For me, it means getting outside and experiencing something I’ve never experienced before. The possibilities for a proper outdoor adventure in Michigan are endless at Van Riper State Park. Plus – not too far away you’ll find Craig Lake State Park, which has more than 8,000 acres of glorious nature to explore.
Don’t forget the sun protection, though. If you’re anything like me, you’ll lose track of time while adventuring and come home with a sunburn.
Have you been on a grand Michigan adventure recently? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!
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