People are drawn to vacation destinations near the water, which is why so many travelers choose popular tourist destinations like Hawaii or coastal beach towns when planning a trip. However, the United States has some incredible lakes that make an excellent alternative to the salt and sand found near expensive, touristy ocean hotspots. Truth be told, America’s Great Lakes are like saltless seas with their vast expanses and sometimes ocean-like conditions. And one of the cleanest of these American lakes offers pristine waters and countless destinations along its vast shoreline for a budget-friendly excursion.
Lake, a vacation rental platform that aims to help travelers discover the beautiful lakes found across America, recently reported that Lake Superior gets America’s cleanest lake award. Thanks to its abundant oxygen and low mineral content, the waters of Lake Superior are spectacularly clear and free of pollution. Plus, it has more than 2,700 miles of shoreline in three states — Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota — and the Canadian province of Ontario. This makes finding a spot — or two or three — along the shore where you can enjoy a relaxing vacation simple without breaking the bank a breeze.
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How to stay near America’s cleanest lake on a budget
The “Entering Porcupine Moountains Wilderness State Park” sign next to Lake Superior.
Whether you have a few days or all summer, you can find ways to explore Lake Superior while avoiding common money mistakes people make while traveling. Pitching a tent or parking your RV at one of the numerous campgrounds around Lake Superior is a wonderful alternative to renting a hotel room. If you have more time, booking a longer stay in a vacation rental can get you a lower rate, as many hosts offer discounts when staying a week or more.
In Michigan’s extraordinary Upper Peninsula, you’ll find reasonable rates at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, with options for stays in developed campgrounds with access to amenities, backcountry camp spots for outdoor enthusiasts, and even cabins if you don’t have a tent or RV. Rates for developed sites can run between $26 and $45 a night, while cabins can cost between $60 and $120.
Meanwhile, Bayfield, a small and charming Wisconsin town, sits directly on the shores of Lake Superior. Here, you’ll discover several opportunities for camping near the water, and you’ll also have quick access to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Take your chances with finding a site at the city-run Dalrymple Park and Campground, where sites run around $30 per night — just know the they can’t be reserved. If you prefer advanced bookings and don’t mind being a few minutes from the water, you could also book Apostle Island Area Campground for as little as $35 a night.
Many Lake Superior activities cost little to nothing
A large cargo ship passing thorough the canal under the lift bridge in Duluth, Minnesota. – James_gabbert/Getty Images
Given Lake Superior’s size, it may be tempting to book a multi-day sailing cruise on the water, but that’s far from the only way to experience the wonder Lake Superior has to offer — and most of the alternatives are a lot cheaper. With miles of undeveloped shoreline, simply taking a hike along the water’s edge can be an adventure. Consider going out at night to search for Yooperlites, a type of syenite rock that’s rich in fluorescent sodalite that causes them to glow brightly under UV lighting.
Renting a kayak if you don’t have your own is the perfect way to get out on the water, and it’s pretty reasonable at many locations around Lake Superior. Each rental service charges its own rates, but many places offer multiday rentals, giving you plenty of time to see the Apostle Islands, Pictured Rocks, or the numerous caves and coves that are most accessible with a watercraft.
Duluth, Minnesota, is a particularly fantastic and affordable place to experience Lake Superior. You can watch the massive cargo ships make their way through the narrow canal, a feat worth seeing at least once that’s absolutely free to view. While you wait, check out the shops along The Lakewalk or stop by the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center to see the exhibits, both of which are free (unless, of course, you snag a souvenir or some ice cream).
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