Michcampgrounds.org

Although camping is a year-round activity in Michigan, spring signals the onset of the warm-weather season. By mid-April, a large number of the privately owned campgrounds in Michigan are welcoming guests looking to shake off the winter blues and enjoy the great outdoors.

1. Wildflowers. April showers bring May flowers, like the trillium that blanket the forest floor. Harbor Springs hosts an annual Trillium Festival each spring, this year set for May 20-29. To learn more about wildflowers in Michigan, visit the Wildflower Association of Michigan online at www.wildflowersmich.org

Spring also brings the blossoms on the apple and cherry trees, making this one of the most fragrant times of the year to get out and travel the Great Lakes State. The Blossomtime Festival (April 27-May 4) in St. Joseph/Benton Harbor and Blossom Days on Old Mission Peninsula (May 17-18) are two events not to be missed.

Of course when it comes to spring flowers, one can’t forget the annual Tulip Time Festival in Holland (May 3-10), it’s a sure sign of spring!

2. Woodland Edibles. Morel mushrooms, wild ramps, leeks and fiddleheads are all delicacies that can be found by foraging through the woodlands of Michigan. After a successful “hunt” you can savor these mouth-watering finds, paired with a fine Michigan beer or wine. Several cities throughout the state – including Mesick and Boyne City – have been hosting festivals celebrate the “mighty morel” for more than 40 years. For recipes and other ideas on how to savor these scrumptious selections, check out Earthy Delights online at www.earthy.com

3. Fishing. Whether you enjoy fly fishing on the rivers and streams, heading out on a charter on the big lake or casting a line for pan fish in an inland lake, you’re sure to catch something while spring fishing in Michigan. From walleye, trout, steelhead and salmon to perch, bass and bluegills, this is a fisherman’s paradise. Spring is also a great to visit one of the state’s six fish hatcheries or the famed Fish Ladder in Grand Rapids. The National Trout Festival (April 23-27) in Kalkaska, the Freeland Walleye Festival (April 25-27) and the Mancelona Bass Festival (May 28-June 1) are among the many opportunities to enjoy spring fishing celebrations in Michigan.

4. Wine Tasting. While the 50+ wineries throughout the state of Michigan are open year round, spring is the ideal time to visit as this is when the new releases are available for tasting. Be sure to purchase a bottle or two, to pair with those woodland edibles and fresh catches! For a list of the state’s award-winning wineries, visit the Michigan Wine Council’s newly revamped website at www.michiganwines.com

5. Bird Watching. Nature centers, sanctuaries and wildlife viewing areas are thriving with opportunities for spring bird watching. The Whitefish Point Bird Observatory Annual Spring Fling (April 25-27) in Paradise, the Tawas Point Birding Festival (May 16-18) in Tawas and the Kirtland Warbler Festival (May 17) in Roscommon County are among the many spring birding events that you may want to check out this season. For more about birding, visit the Michigan Audubon Society website: www.michiganaudubon.org

6. Paddling. With thousands of miles of rivers and streams, not to mention the inland and Great Lakes, spring is the perfect time to get out in your canoe or kayak and head out on the water for some peace and quite. For more information, check out the website for the Michigan Association of Paddlesport Providers: www.michigancanoe.com

7. Peddling. Michigan is home to some of the most scenic biking trails, ranging in distance and level of difficulty. Whether you’re taking a short family trip along a paved trail or are heading out for an off-road mountain bike adventure, you’ll find plenty of opportunities around the state. For more information, check out the website for the League of Michigan Bicyclists: www.lmb.org

8. Hiking. Local author Jim Dufresne has published several exceptional books including “50 Hikes in Michigan: The Best Walks, Hikes and Backpacks in the Lower Peninsula” and “Best Hikes with Children – Michigan” which offer great insight into the trails and scenic sites throughout the state. These, and other titles, are available at bookstores and libraries throughout Michigan.

9. Golfing. Michigan is home to more than 800 golf courses and during the spring season, the rates are often lower, there are fewer people (and bugs) and the temperatures are pleasant. For a detailed list of courses throughout the state, visit Travel Michigan’s award-winning website at www.Michigan.org

10. Geocaching. The hottest new trend for campers and outdoor enthusiasts can be found all around Michigan. This high-tech treasure hunt takes you off the beaten path by using a portable GPS system to find hidden “caches” in various locations. To learn more about this exciting new outdoor activity, visit www.geocaching.com

No matter which spring activity accompanies your camping trip, be sure to travel with camera in hand to capture the awakening of all around you. To learn more about how to enjoy Michigan’s “Springtime Splendor” and cure your cabin fever, visit www.SpringtimeSplendor.com.

The Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds – Michigan represents 250 member campgrounds with more than 32,000 sites available throughout the state. Whether pitching a tent, parking an RV or reserving a rustic or modern cabin, Michigan campgrounds offer a great way to disconnect from busy lives and reconnect with families. Campers in Michigan enjoy the great outdoors while fishing or canoeing on the countless lakes, rivers and streams or hiking, biking and riding on the miles of trails that wind throughout the state. There’s definitely no shortage of activities, no matter where the campground is located.

The new 2008 Michigan Campground Directory, published by ARVC-Michigan, is now available at various locations statewide, including all state Welcome Centers. A PDF version is also available for viewing online at www.michcampgrounds.com. The directory not only lists campgrounds by region, but also includes helpful information on the type of sites available, various amenities such as restroom, laundry and dumping station facilities; recreational offerings such as pools and golf courses; and seasons of operation.