I am wanting to take my family (kids from 6 to 16) to a lake or river in Michigan, rent a cabin for the week, fish and do some family activities. Is there a lake or river that has stuff close by for the whole family to do in Michigan. The wife as most prefers to shop so I am looking for a place we can hopefully do both. I have been to Tippy Dam region and really like it but not sure if its a good choice for a family.

that is a tough call. the southern half of lower michigan is usually good for shopping and the northern half is great for the outdoors. I don't have any good suggestions for you, but we do offer some great fishing.

I have a great one. I love Ludington. It is on the water (Lake Michigan and Sable River I think???) they have a great state park, easy for me to get to, numerious lighthouses, rivers, sand dunes, and food is great. They are about an 1 1/2 from Sleeping Bear Dunes NP. You also need to head to Buhla (SP) and eat at a local favorite The Cherry Hut. Just an idea. Oh and the car ferry goes over to Wisconsin from there, very cool for the kids to see and the adults!

Traverse City area.

Yep either Ludington or Traverse's would be where I would go!! My mom and dad live near Ludington lots of lakes and the Pere Marqutte river is world known!! Walt

I second the Traverse City suggestion. We've been there a few times including last summer and it's always great. We stayed up in Suttons Bay when we went this summer because the room rates in Traverse City were high.

Check out Silver Lake in Shelby MI I

any place north of Clare....." THE GATEWAY TO THE NORTH"

There are alot of place's in the Upper peninsula that offer cabins for rent,Most are near water so you could go fishing or Hike around.
Shopping might be a few miles away,All depend's on where you rent the cabin.
Have you tried the Chamber of commerce,They usually have alot of info for you.
I wish you luck in your quest.

If you are looking for a quiet getaway... Go to the UP but if you like a place that has plenty to do and see then Traverse is the way to go!