There are two types of people in the world: the ones who camp, and the ones who don't.

It doesn't matter if you're a new camper looking for tips or an experienced camper, there are always things to learn about Michigan camping. Here is my recent experience camping in Muskegon State Park, Michigan as well some things I learned.

1. Never underestimate the beauty of the Great Lakes.

I was awestruck this week as I walked the never-ending Lakeshore barefoot. The sand was smooth on my feet and the water refreshing. Running along the lakeshore I felt the splash of the water while the sand cracked beneath my running feet. The view from the shore made me feel small and insignificant. The water dazzles and sparkles all day and never seems to mind when I splashed into it. The lake was clear, and I could see little tadpoles quickly try to get out of the way as I moved to the nearest sandbar.

2. The sun shines brightest over Lake Michigan

Evening came and I sat on a grainy towel spread out on the sand watching the sun change the colors of the sky. Clear and happy blue spread out over me before it transformed into purple, then pink, then orange sky. The lake reflected every pigment and it exploded before my eyes in the evening as the song sank deeper into the sky. Deeper my eyes sank into the sockets in fatigue from the beautiful day. They seemed to mimic the depth of the sun. Blazing, fiery, powerful. once again I felt so insignificant.

3. Dirt has the power to clean your heart

Sweaty. Real Sweaty. There were some terrible smells coming from not only me but the people around me. Grime was weaved through my toes and my hair had a sticky patch within its matted mess. My feet were black and my clothes were drenched with water from unexpected "into the water" trips. After packing and leaving, and during the ride home, I felt a sense of peace and thankfulness. I felt at an all time dirty on the outside, but inside I felt clean. For three days it didn't matter what I looked like and it didn't matter how I dirty I felt because I was brought down to the level of the earth. I got to experience a way of life that many have to live every single day. There were no showers, no running water, no toilets. I was humbled to be one with nature... even when I fell out of my hammock.