Upper Peninsula Adventures
Introduction
After a Google search for campgrounds in the Upper Peninsula, I stumbled upon Paradise Point RV Park, a small, 14-spot, privately-owned, family-friendly campground in the upper east corner of the UP.
This sleepy little retreat, tucked behind a beautifully carved log fence, opens up to a true paradise. Each campsite is well-spaced, and most back up to the stunning Lake Huron.
Serenity at Paradise Point
The calm waters were perfect for easing into a kayak or canoe. The pier right outside our site, complete with Adirondack chairs, provided the ideal spot to wrap up each day, sipping a beverage and watching the sunset.
We met the sweetest neighbors, who welcomed us into their little cove and even shared their kayaks with us. They showed us the ropes and got us out on the water for the first time—such a relaxing and peaceful way to experience nature.
Our mornings were slow and serene, filled with pancake breakfasts and views of this little slice of paradise. One of the most unique features of the site was watching huge shipping barges pass through the Great Lake on their way to Canada. To top it off, we even saw a few seaplanes flying overhead!
Adventures with Kids
Despite the peaceful setting, traveling with kids ensures there’s never a dull moment!
One day, Cooper had a small mishap while sitting on the RV steps. He was upset about something and swung his head around—his tooth met the edge of the step. Cue tears and a chipped front tooth! We panicked at first but calmed down after consulting with our kind nurse neighbor, who reassured us it was just the tooth’s edge and didn’t reach the root.
Cooper quickly returned to his usual self, occasionally tonguing the chipped edge. While it was a stressful event at the time, it taught us how to stay calm and problem-solve. Looking back, it’s a story we’ll always remember, and his little chipped tooth is now a badge of adventure!
Waterfall Wonders
One must-do when visiting the Upper Peninsula is chasing waterfalls! We visited Tahquamenon Falls, and it was breathtaking. The trails were mostly flat, gravel, and well-marked, making them perfect for little legs.
We explored the Upper and Lower Falls, and although signs warned against swimming, several visitors couldn’t resist the crystal-clear water on a hot summer day. While the boys enjoyed the views, their favorite part was the gift shop, where they discovered a treasure trove of stones—sensory bin for the win!
Scenic Drives and Hidden Gems
Later that day, we drove along the Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway, a route I imagine would be magical during the fall. The road led us to Point Iroquois Lighthouse, a charming, low-key destination where the boys had a blast running around.
The lighthouse was open to the public (July 2023), and we climbed to the top of the tower. The 360-degree views of Lake Superior were stunning; the clear weather allowed us to see for miles.
Afterwards, we followed a boardwalk to a quaint pebble beach filled with beautiful rocks. Though I wasn’t equipped with a black light, I imagine this spot is perfect for finding Yooperlites, rocks that glow under UV light.
We loved this spot so much that we surprised David with a picnic dinner at sunset. Reflecting on our journey, I realized moments like these are why we travel. Exploring hidden gems with our kids and creating lasting memories is what makes this lifestyle so fulfilling.
Final Thoughts
The Upper Peninsula left us with unforgettable memories, from serene mornings by the lake to adventurous afternoons exploring waterfalls and lighthouses. This trip was a reminder of the joy in slowing down, savoring the moment, and appreciating the simplicity of life.
