Michigan state parks news - November 2025
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Summer booking window around the corner!
Believe it or not, it's not too early to think about planning your summer camping or boating trip!
Campsite, overnight lodging and harbor slip reservations can be made up to six months in advance, which means reservations will open Nov. 22 for dates starting Memorial Day Weekend.
Visit MiDNRReservations for information on reservations, and Michigan.gov/RecSearch for powerful filters to find exactly what you need, whether it’s a campground with pull-through sites, a park with a disc golf course, an area where metal detecting is allowed or another kind of amenity essential to your adventure.
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Registration open for Bob Ross-inspired virtual 5K
Ready to get a head start on your 2026 race goals? Registration is now open for Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K, taking place April 18-26, 2026. This virtual event honors iconic art instructor and television host Bob Ross.
Participants receive a Happy Little T-shirt, sticker, commemorative bib and finisher’s medal. Even better, your registration lets you choose which state you'd like to support, contributing directly to tree-planting and forest-protection efforts in state parks.
With participation expanding across the country, the positive impact of every runner keeps growing – just like the roots of a happy little tree!
Giving a 5K registration as a gift? Download your printable gift certificate. (P.S. Keep an eye on your inbox this November for our special DNR holiday gift guide!)
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Wear blaze orange outdoors during hunting season
To significantly reduce the risk of hunting accidents, always wear blaze orange when using trails on public or private land, especially during archery and firearm deer seasons.
While hunters are vigilant, wearing this highly visible color is the best way to ensure they see you. Outfit your pet with a blaze orange bandana, leash or harness as well.
Archery season takes place Oct. 1-Nov. 14 and Dec. 1-Jan. 1, 2026, and regular firearm deer season takes place Nov. 15-30. Find details on extended hunting dates into early 2026.
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Hunters, is your freezer already full?
Hunters, if you have success this season, consider working with a participating processor and donating a deer to Hunters Feeding Michigan, a program that helps Michiganders get venison to feed their families. If you're not a hunter and would like to help, consider giving a monetary donation, which is used for deer processing and venison distribution. Your generosity can make a meaningful difference to those in need.
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Many business opportunities open for bidding right now!
Looking for a unique location to launch or expand your small business?
A number of opportunities in state parks are up for bid right now, including mobile food, firewood, watercraft rental and beach concessions, as well as farming activities, a horseback riding stable and more.
The DNR collaborates with small businesses to elevate visitor experiences by offering a wide range of services, including retail, food services, rentals, water park operations, guided tours and more. Through a competitive bidding process, selected businesses can secure contracts lasting up to seven years. Visit Michigan.gov/StateParkConcessions.
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Volunteers, staff come together during historic ice storm recovery, cleanup
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In this recent Showcasing the DNR story, learn about a mother and daughter who were just settling into northern Michigan when the March 28-30 ice storm hit.
Their relocation coincided with a massive storm that left not only a lasting impression on their family, but on their neighbors and the many volunteers who came from across Michigan to help with the recovery.
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