Couple years ago we did similar trip, didn't go into Canada, started Sept 17 ending on Oct 6. Saw some color, but mostly I think we were about a week too early. Also didn't make any reservations and had no problem finding campgrounds.
Many things to do, don't know how to send you my iternery that I saved.
attractions: Elkhart-RV Hall of Fame
went up west side of MI-South Haven, Silver Lake Dunes, Sleeping Bear Dunes Nat Lakeshore
over to Mackinaw City-Mackinac Island
to Sault Ste Marie-watching boats/ships on Lake Michigan/Lake Huron, Soo Locks
west to Tahquaminon Falls, Shipwreck Museum, Lake Superior, Pictured Rock Nat Lakeshore, Porcupine Mtns
south to Door Peninsular, Wisconsin Dells, Duck boatride
to Springfield-Lincoln Museum
