The Midwest may not be well known for towering alpine peaks or picturesque beach sunsets, but don’t let that fool you. This region is packed with surprisingly diverse landscapes. Whether you're after expansive sand dunes, dense forests, or shimmering lakes, there is something for everyone.
If you don’t believe us, take it from Dani and Mike Mortell, who run Lark Overland in Ohio. As Midwest locals who moved back to start their business together, they say they “quickly realized there are so many hidden gems out here that are far more secluded than the big-name spots out West.”
With three new dealers in the Midwest, we’re highlighting some of our favorite destinations that are perfect for your next truck camping adventure!
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Location: Michigan
Types of camping: Developed campgrounds
With 35 miles of sand bluffs that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers incredible views of lush forests, clear inland lakes, and freshwater beaches. Popular activities here include the 450-foot dune climb up a steep, sandy ascent, or the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for explorers looking to take things easy. With miles of trails and beautiful beaches for swimming, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes:
- Platte River Campground: The most popular option for truck canopy campers with 179 sites, a dump station, and hiking access to Lake Michigan. This campground is ideal for those seeking a slightly more modern camping experience.
- D.H Day Campground: Nestled in the woods, this campground is ideal for campers seeking a more rustic experience. It’s well-suited for smaller rigs, making it an excellent choice for pop-top truck campers.
Please remember that both of these options are NPS campgrounds, so reservations are required. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance on recreation.gov.
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Shawnee National Forest
Location: Southern Illinois
Types of camping: Dispersed camping and developed campgrounds
Nestled between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in Southern Illinois, the Shawnee National Forest spans lush forests, sandstone cliffs, and shimmering lakes. Most well-known for the Garden of the Gods, a unique sandstone rock formation with breathtaking panoramic views, many people visit solely to see this. But this is not all the park offers. Other popular activities include rock climbing at Jackson Falls, fishing on Lake Glendale, and the scenic drive along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.
Camping in Shawnee National Forest:
There are a variety of camping options near Shawnee National Forest that are suitable for truck topper camping.
- Pharaoh’s Campground: developed campground that’s open year-round and is great for accessing top hiking spots.
- Jackson Falls, Turkey Bayou, and One Horse Gap: free, rustic camp spots.
Devil’s Lake State Park
Location: Wisconsin
Types of camping: Dispersed camping and developed campgrounds
Devil’s Lake State Park is renowned for its 500-foot quartzite bluffs rising above a 360-acre lake, making it one of Wisconsin’s premier destinations for hiking and camping. The park features nearly 30 miles of trails, including steep bluff-top routes that reward visitors with sweeping panoramic views. Other popular activities also include swimming, paddling, and rock climbing.
Camping at Devil’s Lake State Park
- Pine Glen Scenic Area and State Forest roads: free, dispersed camping.
- Skillet Creek Campground: highly recommended for its warm showers and wooded atmosphere. It is also very close to the State Park.
Honorable Mention: Mammoth Cave
Location: Kentucky
Types of camping: Dispersed camping and developed campgrounds
Kentucky may or may not be a midwestern state, but Mammoth Cave is a must-see regardless. With over 400 miles of explored passageways, Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world.
Whether you are hoping to delve into the history through a guided cave tour or stay above ground to explore the miles of hiking, biking, kayaking, and horseback riding trails along the Green River, there are plenty of activities to fill a weekend!
Camping at Mammoth Cave:
- Mammoth Cave Campground: located within the park, so it is the superior option for proximity to the cave itself. This campground has paved, spacious sites that offer a scenic, wooded experience. Remember to book early, as this campsite fills up months in advance for peak season.
- Cave County RV Campground and Horse Cave KOA: Great options for more amenities and privacy.
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Build Your Tune Camper
FAQ’s
Is there dispersed camping in the Midwest?
Yes, but not as much as there is out west.
In many Midwestern states, land is more privately owned, making true dispersed camping harder to find. Joe Krelle, owner of Chi Town 4x4 in Chicago, acknowledges this, saying, “Camping in the Midwest can be great, but we don’t have dispersed options in most of Illinois or Indiana near Chicago.”
That said, there are still solid options. National forests, state forests, and grasslands are all examples of lesser-known public lands that can be great options for truck camping.
The key is to do a little research ahead of time and have a backup plan. Apps and maps are great tools, but nothing beats arriving early and scoping things out.
Is a pop-top truck camper worth it for Midwest camping?
Yes! Pop-top truck campers work well in the Midwest. They’re easy to maneuver into smaller state park campsites, great for covering long distances between destinations, and provide solid protection from the region’s variable weather. While you’ll see less dispersed camping in the Midwest than out West, the flexibility and comfort still make it a great choice!
What should I look for in an adventure truck topper for Midwest camping?
When choosing a truck topper for Midwest camping, it’s important to consider both weather and campground size. With fewer dispersed sites, a compact, lightweight design makes it easier to fit into smaller state park spots and navigate wooded areas.
Because the Midwest is known for unpredictable weather, look for good insulation, strong ventilation, and durable, weatherproof construction to stay comfortable in any conditions.
Tune adventure truck campers are a great choice for Midwest camping because their truck campers are built to handle unpredictable weather, fit into tighter campsites, and provide the comfort and versatility you need for exploring the region.
