Seek Out Secret Spots On Lake Huron

By Dee Dee Smith, Contributing writer

Lake Huron offers an array of activities for vacationers. Sandy beaches, lighthouses, fishing spots, campgrounds and relaxing resorts draw visitors to this Great Lake year after year. Some of the most popular spots along Lake Huron are near the upper northern portion of the lake; including Manitoulin Island, Georgian Bay and, of course, Mackinac Island.

However, if you're looking for a less frequented vacation spot along Lake Huron, there are many hidden gems from which to choose. Many of these are near the central or southern portions of the lake.

Harbor Beach, Mich.

Harbor Beach is home to several parks and public beaches. It is an ideal spot for vacationers interested in swimming, scuba diving, jet skiing, boating, fishing or beach volleyball. This community also offers a variety of campgrounds including RV parks and outdoor camping, as well as cabin and cottage rentals. For the person seeking more comfort or luxury, there are a few motels and inns in the area.

Grand Bend, Ont.

The adventurer will truly enjoy a visit to the Grand Bend area. In addition to various outdoor activities such as boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming and golfing, Grand Bend is home to both an automobile and motorcycle racing center. Throughout the summer, the racing center stays busy with events taking place almost every weekend. Other points of interest in the area include antique shops, flea markets, museums and a wide variety of restaurants. If you're looking to stay overnight in the area, there is a choice of various campgrounds and RV Parks, bed and breakfasts, and independent motels.

Pinconning, Mich.

Not far from Bay City is the small community of Pinconning. A hidden gem along Lake Huron, Pinconning features quality campgrounds, hiking, canoeing and fishing. Some interesting and fun places in the area to visit include Pinconning Park, Deer Acres Amusement/Theme Park and the Pinconning Cheese and Fudge Shoppe. Aside from the campgrounds and RV parks, lodging is limited in the Pinconning area. Nevertheless, there are a couple of motels nearby, and Bay City is less than 30 minutes away.

Port Sanilac, Mich.

Take a step back in time with a visit to this small, quaint area along Lake Huron. Port Sanilac offers many activities for tourists including golf, fishing, swimming and boating. While in town, be sure to enjoy its outdoor concert series, farmers market and marine museum. There are several cabins and cottages available for rent in the area, along with a couple of motels.

Forest, Ont.

This area is located on the southern portion of Lake Huron in Ontario. It is a short drive from the cities of Sarnia and Grand Bend. Visitors interested in outdoor activities such as golf, fishing, camping, hiking, swimming and boating will find Forest a dream vacation spot. Some places to consider include the Highland Glen Conservation Area, the Forest Farmers Market and the Forest Lambton Museum. If you're looking to stay overnight, consider the Forest Golf & Country Hotel.

As many of these locations are near each other, it is possible to visit and enjoy more than one city during your vacation.