3 Must-See Places to Take Your RV in the Midwest

The Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin is a beautiful state known across the country for its love of suds and cheese. Undoubtedly, no trip to this dairy-rich state would be complete without stopping in for a fresh bag of cheese curds.

However, more than simply a place to grab some cheddar, Wisconsin is home to an array of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly fun.

One must-see Wisconsin destination is the Wisconsin Dells, nicknamed the Waterpark Capital of the World. In fact, the largest outdoor waterpark in the nation is located in the Wisconsin Dells, Noah’s Ark Waterpark.

The Dells are home to an incredible number of both indoor and outdoor waterparks, many of which are interconnected. From lazy rivers to high-speed waterslides, plan to spend at least a portion of your visit getting wet.

While the Wisconsin Dells have earned much of their fame for their incredible number of waterparks, there is plenty for the nature lover to see and do here as well.

One outdoor activity that is a must-try is a ride on the Ducks. Designed during World War II for use by the Army, these half-land, half-amphibian vehicles will guide you across land and water to see the Lower Dells Glacial Park. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible sights of the natural landscape while you revel in the fun of driving straight from a riverbank into the water. There is nothing quite like a ride on the Ducks.

After a busy day of waterside adventures, take some time to visit downtown Wisconsin Dells. Within the city’s center, you’ll find ample shopping, entertainment, and restaurant choices. Whether you are a couple on a romantic getaway or a multi-generational family looking for fun, you will be able to plan a whole day enjoying this bustling town.

With so many activities, the only thing left to plan is where to park your RV during your visit to the Dells. The good news is that the Wisconsin Dells has no shortage of places that are RV-friendly. You can choose from an array of RV parks with all the amenities you need, such as full hook-ups, 30 or 50 amp service, dump stations, water, and more.

The “U.P.”

If nature is calling your name, then a trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula is an absolute must. Commonly referred to simply as the U.P., this peninsula is packed full of wilderness adventures. Here, you’ll find majestic lakeshores, a remote national park, and the incredible Mackinac Bridge.

Resting near Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron, the U.P. offers a vast amount of trails, vistas, and shorelines to explore.

Start your visit with a trip to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the oldest National Lakeshore in the US! Here, you’ll enjoy incredible towering sandstone cliffs, crystal clear water, countless miles of trails, and the peaceful calm of woodlands.

Next up, take a day trip to the Isle Royale National Park. This national park ranks as one of the least visited in the US, but it is not for a lack of beauty. Instead, this remote park is a rugged wilderness that can only be reached by boat, ferry, or seaplane. There is not a single car to be found on this island park, but there are worlds of adventure. Scuba dive to a sunken shipwreck, climb wilderness trails and see the night sky like you never have before.

If you are still ready to experience more of nature, take a trip to Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan. Enjoy the incredible views of the gushing falls that have a massive 200 feet across with a nearly 50-foot drop into the river below.

Finally, no trip to the U.P would be complete without a ride over to Mackinac Island. Located between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, this island is a vacation hotspot known for its lack of cars and old-timey feel. Get around by bicycle, carriage, or by foot and explore the numerous historical landmarks, quaint neighborhood streets, and lakefront. Be sure to grab a piece of famous fudge before heading back to the mainland.

Regardless of what you opt to do while there, the U.P. is chock full of RV-friendly campgrounds that will make the perfect base camp for your daily adventures.

Lake of the Ozarks

Deep in the heart of the Midwest lies a hidden gem — the Lake of the Ozarks. This lake offers boating, fishing, golfing, and outdoor activities galore.

Not only that, but the lake is surrounded by communities featuring the best in dining, entertainment, and shopping.

Start your trip with a visit to the Lake of the Ozarks state park, the largest in Missouri! This park boasts 85 miles of shoreline, including numerous public beaches and ample hiking, biking, and boating opportunities.

Next up, plan a day of exploring at Stark Caverns. During a guided tour, you will set your eyes on unique geological formations, Native American artifacts, ancient bear beds, and more. Choose to take part in the black light adventure and discover a wholly different underground world of fluorescent minerals.

Finally, be sure to take some time away from the water and caves to visit the neighboring towns where you can enjoy delicious waterfront meals, find the perfect souvenirs, and even stop in for a wine tasting.

As you enjoy your time on the lake, finding a place to rest at night will be a breeze. The Lake of the Ozarks hosts a vast number of RV-friendly campgrounds, with every amenity you could want. Be sure to plan ahead as this is a popular summer destination.

Visit Transwest to Find Your Next RV

If you are ready to hit the open road and go explore one of the Midwest’s many gems, it might be time to visit our team at Transwest. We are here to help you locate the ideal RV for your upcoming adventures. With a quality selection of RVs, we have something for any traveler's needs.