Camping at Burt Lake State Park in Indian River, Michigan

Burt Lake State Park in Indian River, Michigan, which is in the far northern section of the state (although not quite in the Upper Penninsula) is one of the finest campgrounds in Michigan. My family took me there when I was young and now I am taking my own family and joining the throngs of others who are doing the same. When we used to go camping at Burt Lake State Park, even during the busiest time of the year (through the month of July and very early August) it was always somewhat crowded, but never to the point of overcrowding. In recent years, however, more people have decided to come to Burt Lake State Park and thus it's important to make your reservations in advance. Just to give you an idea, my parents booked their two-week stay (which is the maximum amount of time you're allowed to stay) right after they left last year, which is probably the only reason they're going to have a place this year.

What's strange though is that even though when I camp anywhere else I would prefer to be surrounded by as few people as possible, when it's busy at Burt Lake State Park in Indian River, Michigan, I never seem to mind. There are much longer lines at the bathroom and shower, it's a lot louder at night with everyone at their campfires, and there are far more people at the sandy beach and zooming around in their boats on the giant clean lake. Still, I don't mind. The only reason I can think of that would explain my nonchalance about this overcrowding at Burt Lake State Park is the vibe. People are all there with their families and everyone is happy. I swear to god, that's the reason. When you walk into town (which takes about 10 minutes uphill) people say hello and are willing to talk about where they came from and what they've been up to. When you leave your wedding ring in the shower (yes, this is a true story) some strange teenager hunts you down and gives it to you with a smile. It's like Mayberry, but with tents and campers.