When it comes to camping, it can't be done without a certain amount of hardware. Whether you're going full-on glamping or getting back to nature, you'll need some tools to get the job done. Michigan's got a wide variety of camping retailers in both local shops and national chains, so here's a rundown of five of Michigan's best to get you on your way.
Bill and Paul's Sporthaus in Grand Rapids puts its focus on knowing its customer's needs. Whether you're looking for bug-repellent clothing for a simple summer campout, a Big Agnes two-person tent, a Nocturne sleeping bag rated to 15 degrees Fahrenheit for a winter excursion, or something as simple as a lineup of Clif Bars, Bill and Paul—routine guests on local television stations like Fox 17—will be ready to help you get properly equipped.
Ann Arbor's Bivouac can cover you on a variety of fronts for camping. Birdwatchers will appreciate the Nikon binoculars and Nemo shelter-tents. Hardcore campers, meanwhile, will welcome Benchmade knives and Liberty Mountain shelf-stable meals complete with flameless heating elements. There's all that plus GoPro cameras to help ensure that you'll never miss a moment of your big excursion. If you're not the type to go camping often, Bivouac can even offer gear rental services so you're not sinking a lot of cash into something you won't use often.
There are several Field & Stream locations throughout Michigan, but the one in Kalamazoo is a recent addition that is worth noting. It's got several of Field & Stream's major Field Tech services built right into it, including gun, bow, and tackle specialists. There's also a camping specialist on hand to cover all your questions about various product offerings. There will be plenty of product offerings here, including a host of products from Field & Stream itself like cots and lanterns. It's not just Field & Stream's own material, though, as we'll also have Mr. Heater space heaters, several entries from Coleman, and a world of products beyond.
REI is one of the best-known camping goods suppliers around, famous for its high-impact clothing. The store will offer actual classes for those who want to learn more about the camping craft. For those who don't need education but are just looking for the hardware, REI won't disappoint. How about a Tepui tent that incorporates your car in the design? Keen and Merrill hiking shoes and boots for those long hikes? Or perhaps an Osprey or REI-branded bag to carry it all in? No matter your purpose, REI will cover you.
Pinconning, just a bit north of Bay City, isn't too far from some of the best camping the state can offer. That in turn means a great opportunity to supply those folks looking to take advantage, and Northwoods Wholesale Outlet should fit the bill nicely. Whether you're looking for a variety of miscellany under the Coghlan's mark—everything from solar-heated camp showers to soap holders—or Coleman tents for a variety of conditions, you'll be covered right here. There are even hunting, fishing, and footwear-specific items to round out your camping plans.
