Camping at Kneff Lake - Fantastic time !

The first camping trip of the summer was a resounding success ! It began on Friday, when I picked up the girls in Kalamazoo and zipped up to the Kneff Lake National Forest Campground, just a hop, skip and jump from Grayling, Michigan. We pitched our tent, and enjoyed the evening. Once camp was made, we cooked some hotdogs and bratwurst and acquainted ourselves with the other campers. This time, there were about 10 adults and about 20 children. The next morning, we awoke and made a big breakfast that included eggs, sausage, and some very strong coffee made by Bob in his chic camping coffee press. After stuffing our faces with food, we shuttled a couple cars to the canoe takeout site, and headed to the launch point for our canoe trip. The canoe trip was wonderful. The girls switched off paddling. The weather was pleasant. The Doyles passed us at one point. And the Wessels passed us, too ! Upon arriving at the takeout point, the kids had a wonderful time playing in the water. Bob, always in command of the situation, pulled the canoes up on land. Isn't he manly? It took some time, but we sent some of the dads out for the cars, they returned, and we shuttled ourselves back to the campsite. At the campground, the kids had a great time playing several games. Bob, R.J. and I hung out and had a beer before cooking dinner. John's friend got out his chainsaw and cut up some fallen logs. John brought them to camp and split them with an axe. The kids hung out by the fire. Are all kids pyros at heart? Esme, never one to be a conformist, instead gobbled up as many Doritos as she possibly could. Everyone enjoyed the fire, roasting marshmallows, and making S'mores, and then getting sleepy by the fire. Shortly before we packed up and left, a group picture was in order. You can see more pictures here or the slideshow here.