Mary said she always looks forward to this relaxing break from her stressful job as a nurse and that the peace and fresh air helps her sleep like a baby during the 2 weeks they're here.

Their friends, Ron & Bonnie, from Fenton were visiting and they invited me over to share a campfire. They used to camp here a lot, and wound up liking the area so much they bought a little cabin nearby. They said this is the nicest state park with the nicest marina in the nicest town. Do you really think this place is pretty nice, y'all? We laughed and kidded each other like old friends before the campfire burned down. Can the folks in MI get any better than this? I think not!

They have been boating for 26 years and used to pass here on the way to the harbor, so decided to camp here on land for a change. When on water, they were used to "anchoring out" and being self contained, so they don't mind not having full hookups. They said they prefer state parks to resort type RV parks because the sites are more spacious and they are not interested in being packed "concrete pad to pad" like some private parks they've seen. They like to explore the natural features within the parks and really think the dunes are great here.

I got a kick out of them saying they were going to give RVing a try for a year and then decide which "toy" to give up - the boat or the motorhome.

Linda said she thinks there are probably advantages and disadvantages to both styles, whether traveling on asphalt or water. When boating, she'd worry about weather, fog and big waves. She grinned as she said she would worry about dying at least once every summer on the boat. With RVing she doesn't think she'd have as many worries and that traffic would be the main aggravation. However, they discovered a cracked windshield on their first morning, so I'll be interested to hear what she says next year.

He also had his satellite setup out and thought he might get a signal through a clearing, but said he finally gave up.

Robin said he was more used to private RV parks where he used his Passport America membership. He really preferred having 50 amps and more amenities like swimming pools and pull through sites. But on the other hand, he appreciated the natural beauty of the park and liked the more laid back style in state parks and thought people seemed friendlier and more outgoing. So apparently he's found a nice blend and does a little of both...

Beachfront features: volleyball court, playground equipment, picnic area, views of big monster freighters coming into Calcite quarry (Rogers City) star gazing, fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing

Other Camper Comments - So many people I talked to who have camped here for many years said this is one of Michigan's best kept camping secrets. And they were a little hesitant to be sharing it for fear of it becoming like the "Gold Coast" on the other side.

A couple with their 4 year old little girl on her very first camping trip: "We like the outside loops because they're larger and more private. And we really like the easy trails - just get the bug spray and go!"

Another thing I really liked: This is the kind of place that celebrates their campers - I was sorry I couldn't be here for "Esther Gibb Day" on July 30. "This summer will be Esther Gibb's 60th consecutive year of camping at P.H. Hoeft State Park! Celebrate with us at the host Campsite on July 30. Free ice cream and cake!" Now how cool is that - and think of all the tales that lady could spin around the campfire!