Last Michigan Stop & Ohio Fun

Our last stop in Michigan was in Essexville, where we stayed at a nice little county campground called Finn Road, right in the middle of the Quanicassee Wildlife Area. It was a perfect place just to relax and enjoy the nature trail, beautiful wetlands, bird watching platform, boat and fishing ramp. I did go into Bay City to bike the local rail trail, which was definitely disappointing. It wasn’t in the best neighborhoods and it had many road crossings. Biking on the rural roads around our campground was a lot more fun.

Our first stop in Ohio was at Camp Perry in Port Clinton, Ohio, which was located on a military training facility. Mike was in the national guard many years ago, and thought it might be interesting to give this campground a try. We really liked that it was not crowded, inexpensive, concrete pads, full hook-ups and close to so many cool destinations and wonderful farmers markets. However, I particularly was not a big fan of the gun fire and what sounded like grenades that would go off occasionally. Thankfully, it was quiet most of the time, and was not a major issue. We absolutely loved the large number of wildlife refuges and marshes in the area. It is actually a major birding hotspot in May. Our favorites were driving through the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, and exploring Magee and Howard Marsh. Taking the ferry to the Put-in-Bay, and biking all around this cute little island was definitely one of the highlights of this stop. We also enjoyed the town Port Clinton, with its little boardwalk and lighthouse on Lake Erie and seeing Marblehead Lighthouse, at a nearby state park. Unfortunately, we got a flat tire on our truck while we were at Camp Perry. It was a new experience for both of us. Fortunately, Mike had no problem changing the tire, with a little help from me. We did have to get a new tire, as the flat tire was too damaged. Just a reminder to all, traveling full-time in an RV is not all fun and games, but it is definitely worth it!

Our last stop in Ohio was in Ravenna, at Country Acres RV Park. The best part is that it was near the Cuyahoga Valley National park and some good biking trails. I especially enjoyed the OH Hike & Bike trail that actually went through the national park and had a great spot to rest and enjoy Brandywine Falls, the largest waterfall in Ohio. I also biked the Portage Trail which had some great views, especially at Kent University. Definitely wished we could have stayed longer to explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Hopefully, we will get a chance next time we travel through Ohio.

Next stops are in Pennsylvania!