If you're ready to get away from it all and escape the heat in your region, think north, think higher elevations and think water. Whether you're close to an ocean coast or can more easily get to a Great Lake, access to water will cool you and soothe your mind. You'll find spots to fish and trails for hiking, and at the end of the day, you can take a cooling dip.

No Gear? No Problem

If you haven't done a lot of camping, investing in the necessary gear can be daunting. However, you can skip the tented shopping and still enjoy great camping in Michigan State Parks on a fully equipped campsite. You'll find a tent for the adults, a pop up for the kids, a table and chairs, and a fire pit and grill. Best of all, Michigan offers access to four of the five Great Lakes.

Many campgrounds in the north country have great websites that can help you find a cabin to rent or even an RV to rent for a longer trip.RVs, like houses, need maintenance. If you choose to rent an RV, make sure you

• take it to an empty lot to practice driving something bigger than you're used to
• discuss how to handle the tank dumping mechanism
• discuss how to manage electrical use and where to look to check your power level
• how and where to change out propane tanks

North Central Options

To stay cool in the Midwest, consider a camping trip in Minnesota. You can find stretches of open country in the north where you can enjoy undisturbed time on the water and see nobody at all for your whole stay.

If you want a bit more company, consider a stay on Lake Superior near the city of Duluth. This remarkable town offers great views, cool breezes, a train museum, and breweries. No matter what else you do in Minnesota, make sure and stop for some walleye and some local ice cream.

Head East

Not everyone has a lot of camping gear. However, if you can get to Vermont, you can enjoy a stay in a cozy cabin at the Autumn Mountain Winery. Getaway from everything you don't want to deal with and stay cool near the shores of Lake Dunmore. Local hiking is lovely, and you don't have to climb too far to enjoy a picnic lunch while looking across the beautiful scenery that is Vermont.

The whole family will enjoy their time at the winery. In addition to tastings, there's a pool and games for the kids, horseshoe pits, and a spot for shuffleboard. Each cabin offers a coffee maker, TV, refrigerator, and microwave. They provide linens and toiletries, and you can request housekeeping.

Out West

For cool relaxation, consider a cabin rental in Lake Cushman, Washington. Lake Cushman is on the Olympic Peninsula. Once there you can enjoy many water sports as well as fishing, harvesting shellfish and just enjoying the beauty of the region. This is even more fun when you can ride a boat yourself. But that requires an official boating license, which can easily be done with aceboater.

This area is cooled by large bodies of water. The mornings will be quite cool. Take care to pack for comfort and for layering. Fleece jackets will be extremely helpful, and something with a hood will keep you cozy around the fire pit at night. Pack your hiking shoes as well. You'll be close to Olympic National Park and the trails will call! Also, if you're into experiencing the wilderness, then we recommend you glamping in Washington. There are many glamping spots around the state where you can really connect with amazing nature and experience beautiful hikes.

Cool Off in the Mountains

Elevation can also cool you off if you can't get to the north country. Consider a trip to Leadville, Colorado. Your visit can include a trip to Turquoise Lake for a swim or a paddle. You might also visit the National Mining Hall of Fame, or go zip-lining down the mountain. No matter what you do in Leadville, the elevation will keep you cool.

If you live at lower elevations, moving up into the mountains can be tough on your body. Make sure you stay hydrated, get the rest your body calls for, and eat plenty of complex carbohydrates.

Travel, like a lot of things right now, can feel uncertain. However, you can get a break from your daily routine and relax in a cool spot, either in the north or at a higher elevation. If you're not a seasoned camper, no problem! Consider a stay in a fully fitted out cabin or rented tent site for a relaxing vacation.