Michigan state parks news - March 2025

Chart a course for boating adventure! This summer, there are two new ways to navigate to boating destinations.

• Discover your perfect launch with MiBFF. The revamped Michigan Boating Facility Finder (or MiBFF) makes finding access sites a breeze. Use the interactive map to explore launch points, check watercraft rules and stay informed about closures.
• Navigate with our new printed harbor guide. Grab your printed Michigan Harbor Guide at 19 state-managed harbors and select municipal marinas this summer. Ask harbor staff for your copy this summer!

Congratulations to this year’s gift card winners!

About a week after your camping and harbor reservation concludes, you'll find a brief online survey in your inbox. Your feedback is invaluable, helping us enhance your experience, understand what's most important during your stay and prioritize improvements and staff training.

To thank participants, six randomly selected respondents are receiving $100 state park and harbor gift cards. This year's winners are Sandra M., Patrick M., Patricia A., Kim M. , Stephanie L. and Marlin S.

Of all the wild creatures we share the planet with, birds are among the most beautiful. 

Want to learn more about the different birds stopping for layovers or moving into your community each new season? You can learn which birds are on the move in Michigan and the best state parks to see them.

Ready to get started? Text BIRD to 80888 or register online to sign up for Winged Wednesday weekly text updates.

Above photo: A magnolia warbler, captured by Michigan state park photo ambassador Sheen Watkins at Tawas Point State Park. These birds migrate through Michigan in spring and fall. See more pictures at Instagram.com/MiStateParks.

Fire experts within the DNR occasionally plan strategic fires called prescribed burns to manage the ecosystem on state lands. These burns help control invasive species, improve wildlife habitat, promote healthy forests and grasslands, and reduce wildfire fuel. 

Our stewardship team, comprised of foresters, wildlife biologists and other natural resources experts, develop detailed burn plans, ensuring responsible habitat management and enhanced recreational opportunities.

This means you may notice fire activity when visiting or driving by a state park this spring and summer. To sign up to receive prescribed burn updates in your inbox, visit the DNR's Prescribed Fire page.

The "Prescribed Burns" story map – including stories, photos and videos – takes a detailed look at how prescribed burns work.