Michigan state parks news - September 2024

With products ranging from cozy sweatshirts to unique axes, you can support Michigan's outdoors while gearing up with quality items.

For every purchase you make, "These Goods are Good for Michigan" partners give back a portion of their proceeds to a number of DNR-managed programs, places and initiatives, such as youth education, green initiatives, habitat preservation or, sometimes, specific locations near and dear to their staff.

Our special merchandise partner, Great Lakes Proud, offers sustainably sourced apparel and accessories featuring iconic Michigan symbols like campfires, morels, "Peace, Love, Parks," tree rings and more.

Everyone wins when you support one of these partners. Visit Goods4Mi.com. 

To help you plan your perfect fall getaway, Pure Michigan has created a Fall Color Map. Simply move the leaf to see the best predicted places to spot vibrant autumn foliage throughout the season. The map will be updated regularly as reports come in from across the state.

Whether you prefer fiery reds and oranges or soft yellows and browns, Michigan has something for everyone! Consider booking a campsite in a state park or state forest campground, taking a fall chairlift ride to the top of the Porkies, ziplining at Michigan Luge Adventure Park's zip line in Muskegon State Park, hiking or riding a trail, volunteering at a stewardship workday or exploring countless other options.

Captured by Michigan State Park Photo Ambassador Ryan Burger, this photo showcases Deadman's Hill and the trailhead for the Jordan Valley Pathway. See more pictures by Michigan state parks photo ambassadors at Instagram.com/MiStateParks. 

The DNR’s efforts to make Michigan’s public lands accessible to people of all abilities is about more than providing access to nature – it’s affirming that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves the opportunity to experience the beauty and peace of our great outdoors. 

From accessible walkways to the waterfront, user-friendly kayak launches, color blind scenic viewers at overlooks, accessible fishing piers, accessible hunting blinds and motorized track chairs for trail exploration to accessible accommodations including mini cabins, camper cabins, lodges and yurts, an increasing number of Michigan state parks offer inclusive ways for visitors to enjoy the outdoors.

Learn more in our Showcasing the DNR story.

With the DNR’s Nature Awaits program, every fourth grade classroom in Michigan is eligible for a free state park field trip designed to support their classroom learning and connect them with the natural world. Each trip includes 90 minutes of hands-on learning aligned with curriculum standards in science, social studies, physical fitness and language arts. Transportation reimbursement is also covered for up to $1,000 for public schools.

Don’t delay – fall registration is still open, and trips are being scheduled through November. Learn more and register at Michigan.gov/NatureAwaits.