How much do you have to spend? I would recommend a DR650 or KLR650. These are great all-a-rounders with a cult like following and tons of supplier. Head over to Adventure Rider for more information that you could read in a lifetime.
Aaron good luck and take lots of pictures. Went to your ihatemybike to see your bike and it is not there. I camp from my bike if I was going on this trip would try and do a combination of camping and couch surfing.
I'd offer you a place to stay, but current living just south of Rockford and...