Budget Travel Friday: Warren Dunes, Michigan

Posted on February 17, 2012 1 Comment

Today’s photo inspiration comes from Warren Dunes, Mich., just a short drive away from Chicago.

Warren Dunes, Michigan

This photo was taken on a hike that leads up to the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan. We went in October, 2011; it was cold, but beautiful. We hiked up these dunes in the morning and made a short drive to Greenbush Brewery in Sawyer, Mich. for a few delicious post-hike beers before heading back to the campsite for dinner under the stars. The dunes are hundreds of feet high and I had no problem getting up them but was a little scared to go down. The first one I slid down on my butt, the second (a little less steep) I jumped down, giggling the entire way.

This was our first trip ever to Warren Dunes. I cannot believe this gorgeous hike and campsite is practically in my backyard and I never knew about it. The entire weekend cost me $90, including gas, campsite fees, groceries, and firewood. (For those of you who don’t want to camp, there are hotels in the area.) When planning your next weekend getaway, remember that you don’t always need to take a plane to get away from the daily grind.

Here’s one more pic, this one of the campsite. Sigh.

Our camp site at Warren Dunes

About Budget Travel Friday – Photo Inspiration

The idea is this: I am a champion budget traveler. I have traveled to beautiful places, both remote and urban, across the United States, every year since I’ve had my own job, and have never needed to dip into my savings to do so. I have this crazy wanderlust that drives me out of the city every so often and pushes me to learn about new places, explore them, and meet new people along the way.

I also happen to love photography and while I’m less great at it than budgeting, I have a collection of photos from the east coast to the west coast and everywhere in between to share with you.

You know the tactics behind budget travel: research and plan ahead, go off-season, use Hotwire or Priceline for hotels – or try camping, purchase air fare when prices are cheap (or just fly Southwest ;), shop at grocery stores and local markets instead of eating at fancy places, visit museums on free days, etc.

OK, you have the tools, but where should you go? I hope you’ll check in with me every Friday for a photo example. If I’ve been there, you know it’s on the cheap, and you’re only a few clicks away from being there yourself.

Category: Life
   Tags: Travel

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