Michigan state parks news - June 2024

On two back-to-back days, June 8-9, residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride Michigan?s off-road trails and/or visit a state park and other outdoor spaces ? all at no cost ? during "Three Free" Weekend. All ORV and fishing rules and regulations still apply.

• Free ORV - Legally ride 4,000 miles of state-designated routes and trails and the state's six scramble areas without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit.
• Free Fishing - Fish for all in-season species, all weekend long, without a fishing license.?
• Free Recreation Passport - Throughout the weekend, the Recreation Passport entry fee that's normally required for vehicle entry at state parks, state-managed boating access sites, state forest campgrounds, thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces will be waived.

As summer gets underway, exciting improvements continue to take shape in many state parks across Michigan.

Get ready for new and upgraded park roads, toilet and shower buildings, water and sewer, electrical and more!

Thanks to $273 million boost million in federal relief funding from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Building Michigan Together Plan, these much-needed enhancements will require temporary closures during construction, but the upgraded facilities will create better park experiences for everyone now and in the future.?

Check Michigan.gov/DNRClosures for the latest updates on park improvements, estimated closure dates and other details. Visitors will also find notices on other enhancements taking place this summer and into the fall.

Fall registration is now open for Nature Awaits, an education initiative that allows fourth grade classes to visit a state park on a free field trip.

Educators can choose from 30 state parks throughout Michigan, with transportation costs for public schools reimbursed up to $1,000. Trained DNR educators lead participants through 90 minutes of student-centered activities ? all of which are aligned with state curriculum standards and spanning a variety of subjects such as science, language arts, social studies and physical education ? during an interactive hike.

To learn more about the program and to register, visit Michigan.gov/NatureAwaits.

Before you jump in, remember the Great Lakes are large, powerful water systems that hold more than 20% of the world's fresh water. Strong currents can catch even the most experienced swimmer off guard.

Safety first! Before you go, be sure you and your family are familiar with essential swim safety tips like understanding beach flags alerts, wearing life jackets, swimming with a buddy and knowing escape plans for rip currents.

You'll find must-know tips and more safety info at Michigan.gov/BeachSafety.