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"*Michigan state parks news - August 2025*"

Hit ORV trails for free this weekend!

two ORVs riding on tree-lined trail

You're invited to ride Michigan's 4,000 miles of off-road vehicle trails and/or scramble areas during Free ORV Weekend [ [link removed] ].

Residents and out-of-state visitors legally can ride DNR-designated routes, trails and the state’s six scramble areas Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 16-17, without an ORV license or trail permit. All other ORV rules and laws still apply, and the Recreation Passport [ [link removed] ] is required where applicable. 

"If you like what you experience, please consider purchasing an ORV license and trail permit. Fees generated are reinvested into the ORV system, benefiting trail expansion, annual trail grooming, infrastructure improvements and more."

The entrance fee for Holly Oaks ORV Park [ [link removed] ] is also waived for the weekend.



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Northern Michigan is making a remarkable post-ice storm comeback!

tree stump with DNR truck in the background

Thanks to the relentless efforts of the DNR and local communities, all state parks, boating access sites and state forest campgrounds (except one) in the 12 impacted counties have been restored following the devastating March 28-30 ice storm.

We're also excited to report that 65% of state-managed motorized and nonmotorized trails have reopened, a huge step in restoring access for outdoor enthusiasts. Work continues on the sections of trail that remain closed following a prioritized and phased approach to safely reopen all impacted trails for public recreation. This incredible effort was made possible by DNR staff, trail partner groups and many hard-working volunteers, who have dedicated more than 41,000 hours.

"You can find a map and dashboard [ [link removed] ] with the latest status of state-managed trails on the DNR’s ice storm storm response page [ [link removed] ]. "



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Boating net safety: Look for orange when out on the water!

red flag on pole in in water

When you're on the water, keep an eye out for commercial fishing operations. These commerical fishing nets are often found near popular ports, marked by tall buoys with orange flags and typically a fair distance apart.

Getting snagged in a net or its lines not only impacts recreational anglers, tribal fishers, state-licensed commercial businesses and scientists, but can cause serious damage to your gear or boat's motor.

If you become entangled, 1) turn off the engine or put the boat in neutral, 2) cut yourself free using wire cutters and/or label your gear if left behind, 3) mark the net's location on your GPS and attach a buoy or jug for officials and 4) report GPS coordinates to an enforcement agency. Find contact info and learn more. [ [link removed] ]



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Shoreline horseback riding reservations at Silver Lake open Sept. 1

horseback riders posing for photo with sand dunes in the background

Experience Silver Lake State Park on horseback [ [link removed] ]! As part of an ongoing effort to expand year-round recreation at Silver Lake, a shoreline horseback riding season takes place annually Nov. 1-30 (except Thanksgiving).

Equestrians can ride a predetermined route along Lake Michigan. A staging area is available at the start of the route.

Reservations open Sept. 1 at 8 a.m. at MiDNRReservations.com [ [link removed] ] (use the equestrian tab and staging area filter) or call 1-800-447-2757. The cost is $10 per horse per day, with 125 slots available daily.



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Want to help shape future investments at Belle Isle Park?

A graphic showing pictures and brief descriptions of the 11 proposed Belle Isle investment projects

The DNR and the Belle Isle Conservancy want your input! We're considering 11 potential large-scale projects to enhance Belle Isle Park in Detroit and need your help to rank them.

Whether you're a regular visitor or just love this beloved park, please take our online public survey [ [link removed] ] to help guide the new strategic development plan. Your feedback is crucial as we explore funding for these significant enhancements. The survey closes on Labor Day.



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Mackinac Bridge to close to vehicle traffic Labor Day morning

walkers crossing the Mackinac Bridge

If your Labor Day weekend travel plans include crossing the Mighty Mac Monday, Sept. 1, please keep in mind that the Mackinac Bridge Authority closes the bridge 6:30 a.m. to noon for the Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk [ [link removed] ].

If you're looking for things to fill your time during the closure, participating in the Mackinac Bridge Walk is FREE (and registration isn't required). There's also lots to do on both sides of the bridge, such as visiting Mackinaw City or Ocqueoc Falls in the Lower Peninsula or exploring St. Ignace or Fayette Historic State Park in the Upper Peninsula.

For even more ideas, check out the new RecSearch website [ [link removed] ]. With its location-based search and powerful filters, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time.











*Michigan.gov/StateParks [ [link removed] ]*

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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Department of Natural Resources · Constitution Hall, 525 W. Allegan St., PO Box 30028 Lansing MI 48909 · 1-800-439-1420