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Pure Michigan
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A&S RV Center
Bay Mills Resort & Casinos RV Park
Camp Dearborn
Department of Natural Resources
General RV Center
Lloyd Bridges Traveland
Michigan International Speedway
Michigan Truck Spring
Oakland County Park & Recreation
Travel Michigan



Michigan Camping and RVing Season
Continuing positive outlook

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds started 2013 off with strong RV show attendance across the state of Michigan. The positive outlook for the industry at the beginning of the year is still evident as 2013 approaches its halfway mark with shipments, RV registrations and campground reservations showing continued improvement.

Memorial Day weekend RVers from across the state of Michigan kicked off the camping season with high consumer confidence and RV shipments on the rise, creating a positive beat for the upcoming summer months. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) reported recreation vehicle shipments have increased in the first quarter of 2013 by 11 percent. Michigan is listed third in the nation with 10,316 new RV registrations in 2012, only behind Texas and California, according to Statistical Surveys. Gary Becker, Owner of Indigo Bluffs RV Resort in Empire, Mich., is excited for the upcoming summer months, “We have record seasonal growth and rentals for our June-September season.”

Fun things to do at a Michigan campground

You don't have to leave your favorite campground or spends lots of money to find fun things to do. There are many activities that the whole family will enjoy, regardless of age or ability.

Hiking—Some of nature's best views are off the beaten path. Research hiking trails to explore near your campground. Be sure to consult your campground or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for hiking trail recommendations and safety tips.

Biking—By taking a biking tour, you can venture out even farther than just hiking. There are hundreds of biking paths throughout Michigan, many which are located near campgrounds for easy access. Check with your campground or research the internet for nearby paths.

Outdoor Kitchens: the answer to the question, "What's for dinner?"


We sat down with Bill Sheffer, Director of MARVAC, to ask him a few questions about a feature that is growing in popularity with RV manufacturers and buyers alike-"Outdoor Kitchens"

Bill, what is the draw to outdoor kitchens? Why should we be looking for this exciting feature in our own RV?

Outdoor kitchens have a lot to offer RV and camper owners. They aren't just for families, they are great for all travelers,Slide out kitchens tailgaters, entertainers, and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Models can come built in, or slide out, and some designs even swing out for set up, with many options for space saving designs and appliance options. You might be thinking, "Why is this something that I must have, what's the real benefit?" Think about the times you have been standing around the campfire cooking and remembered something you left on the counter. You have to run back inside and make it back to the campfire before any harm comes to your meal. With an outdoor kitchen, you have everything at your fingertips and there is no need to run in circles.

It's a great time to buy an RV

Whether you're a would-be or a seasoned RVer, the reasons to buy are endless: family bonding, affordable getaways, or spontaneous road trips, to name a few. Here are some of the top reasons why there's never been a better time to buy:
  • In today's economy, there are great deals available on new RV models.
  • Financing is readily available for qualified borrowers.
  • You may qualify for a tax deduction because the interest on your RV loan is generally deductible as second-home mortgage interest.
  • RVs are more fuel efficient than ever.
  • Even when fuel costs are up, RVers can enjoy the same experience closer to home to save on fuel.
  • The sooner you buy, the sooner you can enjoy years of savings and adventures.
Plan to visit an upcoming
MARVAC RV show

Fall Detroit Camper & RV Show

October 2-6 2013
Novi, Mich.

Detroit Camper & RV Show

February 5-9, 2014
Novi, Mich.

Battle Creek Camper & RV Show

February 27 - March 2, 2014
Battle Creek, Mich.

Flint Camper & RV Show

March 13-16, 2014
Flint, Mich.

Northwest Michigan Camper & RV Show

March 21-23, 2014
Traverse City, Mich.


FAQs on RVs and RV Travel

Web video by MARVAC Director Bill Sheffer, answers some frequently asked questions about RVs and RV travel.

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Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC)
2222 Association Drive, Okemos Michigan 48864-5978
(517) 349-8881, marvac@marvac.org
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