Rockville Lake Park

Rockville Lake Park in Rockville Indiana is an excellent place to cool off on a hot summer day. With a sand beach, calm water, and a wading area which gradually slopes into a deep swimming area, it is perfect for young children (with parental supervision of course) and adults alike. 

In the swimming area there is a concrete dock which you can climb up and jump off of. (Careful, it is easy to skin yourself on the concrete!) The water is deep enough for a dive!

There is a playground and picnic area near the beach. Note that pets are allowed in the park, but not on the beach. 

Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run near Marshall Indiana is a hiker's dream. This beautiful state park offers several trails which wind through a variety of geographical wonders. The trails vary in difficulty. Some have steps carved into rock walls while others have stairs which descend into deep gorges. There is even a trail which has ladders which you must climb to continue. There is a cavern area which is cold even in the mid of summer (the ice box) and a trickle of a stream into a pit (the punch bowl, pictured below). 

Beware, you may get your feet wet on some trails which you must walk into the stream, but on a hot summer day this is sure to be refreshing. The sand stone beneath the water's surface helps with traction.

There are several areas which offer rock climbing for beginners and experts alike. Dogs are allowed on the trails as long as they are leashed, so feel free to bring your pooch.

The paths are easy to follow, but make sure to pick up a map at the nature center. For those who wish to take a dip, take advantage of the Olympic size pool. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, Sugar Creek runs through the park, where you can kayak or canoe.

Don't forget water!

Lakeside Park

If you are searching for a beach on Lake Huron near the mouth of the St Clair River, Lakeside Park in Port Huron Michigan has one that offers not only clear crisp water, volleyball, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a splash pad but also offers less current, sandy bottoms, and waves. There are even underwater sand bars to swim out to, where boats set anchor nearby and the occupants swim or play a game of ball. 

Restrooms are available on site. Current rates are per vehicle. 

$5 for St Clair County residents

$10 out of county.

Indiana Dunes State Park on Lake Michigan

Want to find a campground with an awesome freshwater beach? Head on down (or should I say up?) to Indiana Dunes State Park on Lake Michigan. Not only can you beat the heat, but there are sand dunes that are a photographer's dream. As for the beach... well.... see for yourself.

Don't forget to lather on the sunscreen and pack the cooler with plenty of water!

Lake View Beach on Lake Michigan in Indiana

Lake View Beach is one of the Beaches East of Indiana Dunes that not only offers one of the most beautiful views in America, but is also pet friendly... and best of all FREE!

With crystal clear water, sandy beaches, and lots of parking, what's not to love?

Take a stroll, build a castle, people watch, or take a dip in the crisp waters.

Pavilions are on site to have a picnic lunch!

Even on a rainy day you can watch the storm roll in from under these with miraculous beauty! (Make sure to find safety if severe weather arrives!)

Marysville City Park & Chrysler Beach in Marysville Michigan

Chrysler Beach sits across the road from Marysville City Park (where there are playgrounds, sporting areas, a splash pad, and picnic tables to enjoy a lunch). 

The beach is excellent for a dip in the cool waters of the St. Clair River. Some bring out kayaks or floats to float down the river to nearby St. Clair. (on a float this can take all day).

There is even a dock for those who like to dive or jump into the deep area since the waters are decently calm near shore in this area. (careful not to venture out too far...this river does have a swift current farther out!)

Also a great place to watch for freighters (may even get to splash in some small waves) or building a sand castle! The beach is dog friendly so feel free to bring along Fido. (please remember to clean up after your pet). 

Restrooms and parking are located on site.

Did I mention that Canada is across the river?

Lighthouse Park & Beach in Port Huron Michigan

Lighthouse Park & Beach offer a view as well as crystal clear water to cool you down on a hot summers day, right where Lake Huron feeds into the St. Clair River... and for free! For a small fee, you can even climb the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse steps for a view from the top.  Restrooms and a playground are available as well as vending machines!

The beach offers sand for the kids to build a castle and beautiful stones for those into rock collecting.

The water does have current as well as waves so be prepared!

There are a variety of water crafts which frequent the port, so it is a perfect place to watch freighters and sailboats alike.

Don't forget the sunscreen!

Crystal Shrine Grotto @ Memorial Park Cemetery in Memphis, TN

Crystal Shrine Grotto is located within Memorial Park Cemetery near Memphis. 

Many don't think that cemeteries are places to take a road trip, unless you are in New Orleans of course. BUT this one is also unique.

Abraham's Oak...

Many visit from around the world to see this shrine, sculpted in the 30s by a Mexican self taught and proclaimed sculptor by the name of Dionicio Rodriguez.

See inside a tomb... 

The entrance to the shrine below... 

inside the shrine.... sculpted of quartz and precious gems.

Don't forget to sign the guest book

The funeral home offers sacks of fish food for free so the children can feed the fish!

So escape the summer heat and see this site listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Other sculptures are on property such as The Wishing Chairs. Check it out!