The DNR's all-new RecSearch website, with its improved design, location-based search and powerful filters, makes it simpler than ever to explore state parks and recreation areas, campgrounds, state forest campgrounds and nonmotorized trails.

Much like other popular travel websites, RecSearch allows you to quickly find results based on interest and/or location. Search by a specific location or keyword, or apply filters based on location type, accessible features, activities, amenities and overnight options.

“Whether you’re looking for fun day trip ideas, planning a bigger excursion overnight at a state park or state forest campground, or seeking an adventure along a trail or shoreline, RecSearch provides the perfect inspiration to shape your nature escape,” said Ami Van Antwerp, DNR Parks and Recreation Division communications specialist. “We’re thrilled to roll out this resource for residents and visitors to our beautiful state. Consider it your new must-have tool for getting out there to explore and enjoy Michigan’s stunning landscapes and hidden gems.”

Built on the State of Michigan's web platform, RecSearch offers a seamless, responsive experience across all devices, including mobile. It integrates the state's unified brand, navigation and accessibility strategies, ensuring a consistent and user-friendly experience.

Users will find a wealth of information, including amenities at hundreds of outdoor locations (everything from picnic areas and fishing piers to track chairs and playgrounds), camping and lodging options, details on nonmotorized trails, availability of accessible accommodations for people of all abilities, and more.

Start exploring at Michigan.gov/RecSearch! Questions? Contact Ami Van Antwerp at 517-927-5059.

Coming soon to downtown Grand Rapids are some of Michigan’s rarest species: a piping plover, Michigan monkey flower and Karner blue butterfly. But they’re not moving in; they’re being painted.

On Saturday, July 26, the Pleasant Peninsula Mural Festival will transform 52 Front Avenue into a vibrant gallery of conservation-inspired street art. Through bold murals painted by 21 local and national artists, Michigan’s threatened and endangered species will take center stage in an unexpected setting: the city.

So why host a mural festival focused on rare plants and wildlife in an urban space?

“It’s our mission to make nature more accessible,” said Eddie Chaffer, muralist, director and founder of Pleasant Peninsula. “Public art makes Michigan’s spaces and species feel familiar, and familiarity leads to confidence, so the next time folks end up out in the woods or at the beach, they’ll feel more assured about their place in the natural world.”

Pleasant Peninsula, launched in 2022, is a nonprofit built from the ground up to promote conservation, biodiversity and environmental education through public art.

The one-of-a-kind mural festival paired muralists with conservation experts and educators from across the state to learn more about the plants and animals they will be painting.

“The plants and animals that will be featured, and many more like them, are important parts of Michigan’s natural heritage,” said Jennifer Kleitch, DNR endangered species specialist. “They’re the building blocks of healthy ecosystems, clean air and clean water.”

And while the art is striking, the story it tells strikes a deeper chord: Many of these species serve as indicators of ecosystem health, and their declines often are early warning signs of broader environmental concerns like habitat loss, invasive species and climate change.

“A festival celebrating these species brings visibility to their conservation needs and invites us all to connect with nature in a fun and exciting way – and hopefully in a way that drives greater connection and response,” Kleitch said.

The festival will include booths and presentations from conservation partners who work to manage and conserve rare species and their habitats. It’s a celebration, yes, but also a call to action.

“When it comes to rare species conservation, it takes a village,” said Kleitch. “Artists, scientists, nature centers, land conservancies and everyday people all play a role. When we work together, we can create real change.”

Whether you attend the festival or catch the murals another day, you can help Michigan’s rare species in simple ways:

• Learn about threatened and endangered species and explore Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan.
• Plant native flowers and grasses in your yard to support insects and birds.
• Donate to the Nongame Fish and Wildlife Fund or purchase a Kirtland’s warbler license plate.
• Volunteer at or support your local conservancies or nature center.
• Report observations of rare species to help scientists monitor populations.
• Familiarize yourself with invasive plant, insect and animal species and know what to do if you spot them.

Did you know that all state parks, boating access sites and all but one state forest campground (Johnson’s Crossing Trail Camp in Otsego County) that were damaged during the March 28-30 ice storm are now open? If your summer plans included an “up north” getaway within the area affected by the storm, good news: Here are some of the destinations with free, family-friendly programs that are ready to welcome you.

• If you enjoy camping and sightseeing, make sure to visit Wilderness State Park, situated just 11 miles west of Mackinaw City. The park features 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, over 20 miles of trails and a designated dark sky preserve. If you’re there this week, don’t miss the chance to join our explorer guide for fun activities ranging from guided hikes to crafts, and on July 19, firefighters will be there to discuss fire safety with visitors.
• If your ideal getaway includes time spent on a boat, be sure to visit Burt Lake State Park in Cheboygan County. The park is in the heart of the Inland Waterway, a 38-mile chain of rivers and lakes. If you’ll be there July 18, take advantage of free programs focused on turtles and bears, along with a guided nature hike led by the park's explorer guide.
• Are rustic camping and cycling more your speed? Be sure to explore the 75-mile North Central State Trail, one of the premier cycling trails in the Midwest. After your ride, set up your tent at Pigeon River State Forest Campground, located 30 minutes from Gaylord. While you're in the area, stop into the Pigeon River Discovery Center, which hosts free educational programs throughout the year, including a live raptor presentation July 19 hosted by our explorer guide program.

If your travel plans include beautiful northern Michigan, always be aware of the ice storm’s lingering risks and damage. Watch for weakened and dangling tree limbs that could fall, and look down to avoid downed branches that could create tripping hazards, especially in forested areas. 

The bottom line? Embrace the outdoors and take advantage of some stellar summer programming and recreation/learning opportunities, but be keenly aware of your surroundings.

Approximately 50% of DNR-managed motorized and nonmotorized trails in the region remain temporarily closed. Please respect all other trail closures, and keep in mind that even recently opened trails might still need additional maintenance.

For the latest status updates on state-managed facilities, trails and forest roads (including open, partially open or temporarily closed), refer to the map and dashboard on the DNR's ice storm response page.

For more weekly nature program schedules, visit Michigan.gov/NaturePrograms; for all DNR programs, events and classes, visit Michigan.gov/DNRCalendar.

Questions about the DNR’s explorer guide program? Contact Shaun McKeon at 989-370-0789.