I think you are right on both counts. I have done both and it worked for me, but, you don't have the same set of issues to work with. I have kids, so that changes everything. Work has moved us all over the world.
So, for me, buying 80 acres and a house/and barn and sauna house on Little Bay de Noc in the UP was heaven. I would take the kids there all summer and they had consistency in their life. I also got a fire sale on the place and had instant equity if I needed a quick sale. It was inexpensive enough to be able to let it sit when other things came to my door. I also owned a 38 ft. trailer and have to say that was such an amazing way to travel and boy, howdy! That clicked on all my channels.
I found if I liked something and there were people that were going to be there, that was fun and like you say, close enough to have the time there. I love Austin and lived in San Antonio for a little over 2 years. Floating down the Guadalupe River was so cool! Of course, months later, when I watched houses float on by, not so much. Yikes! I like new adventures, but, there is something very warm and inviting about knowing what to expect and working within that framework. Also, a timeshare does the same thing. They have camping timeshares, I went to an invitational and they gave you4 days at their place, another great way if you like to visit the same few places. I remember it has great amenities.
I think you have the right idea. At this time in life, this is what works for you. I worked within my framework, but once the kids got to high school, I didn't need the place in the UP and it was inconvenient to get to for no reason. So, I found another family that was looking for the same thing that I needed at the time, the consistent feeling for their kids with a part-time residence in summer. Bazinga! Perfect place and what a gift for both of us. I got to pass it to another that would love it like we did and they got the same consistency you need with kids. You know what you like and maybe one year, throw caution to the wind and go somewhere else for half the time. I always got six weeks off, so it was easy to split it up. If you have never been to Zion National Park, you should try it. It is three hours from Vegas, which I loved and I don't gamble. Some day, not this day while you are still in the neighborhood and making it yours. There will be a need to reach out someday, and maybe there won't be the want. Just know, you can change how you feel anytime. If you never do, does it really matter? I say no regrets. It doesn't matter if it doesn't move you one way or the other. I say the best place is the one you look forward to and have fun in. You have the rest of your life to check out the others, and maybe they won't even be camping.
You just never know! It is too hot in Texas in the summer! Yikes! Choose again. :) OK... I am taking up way too much space... Did I happen to mention that you have some stunning scenery up there? Indeed. I don't wonder why the dilemma. You have it all up there.
Have a great day!
My wife would love to just get a motor home and travel around when we are a little older and out of work. I kind of like the idea of having a place to call home. I don't think I could ever give up a permanent residence somewhere. Last time we went to Vegas we took a day and traveled to Valley of Fire, but we didn't make it to Zion. It was on the list though. We will be out that way again some day and for sure make it there. Thanks for the great reply. You raised some really good points!