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"*Michigan state parks news - July 2026*"

Three simple steps for safe e-biking on DNR-managed trails

a woman on an e-bike resting near lake

We've been getting lots of questions on e-biking on DNR-managed trails [ [link removed] ]. Here's some helpful information to know before you head out:


* *Know your e-bike’s class [ [link removed] ]. *Class 1 (pedal-assisted, up to 20 mph): Allowed on any DNR-managed trail where traditional bikes go, except in state game and wildlife areas, the North Country Trail and the High Country, Shingle Mill and Pickerel Lake pathways in Pigeon River Country. Class 2 (throttle/pedal-assisted, up to 20 mph): Allowed for mobility use only; requires a DNR-issued permit [ [link removed] ]. Class 3 (up to 28 mph): Not allowed on state-managed trails.
* *Find a DNR-managed trail [ [link removed] ].* Explore Michigan’s 2,000 miles of trails open to bicyles.
* *Be safe and leave no trace* [ [link removed] ]*.* Protect the trails and respect fellow visitors while you explore.


"Got an e-moto? If your bike lacks fully operable pedals, exceeds 20 mph with throttle assist or has a motor size greater than 750 watts, it’s an e-moto and considered a motor vehicle "(ie. moped, motorcycle or dirt bike) "in Michigan. Because of this, they must be licensed appropriately and are prohibited from nonmotorized trails. If licensed as an ORV, e-motos are welcome on Michigan's 4,000-plus miles of designated ORV trails."

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Stop invasive species: Clean, drain, dry

two boaters cleaning their boat

We're in peak summer, and as a Michigander, you know what that means — boating!

Here are three simple steps ("four if you are an angler") that will help protect our waterways from invasive species and possibly save you $100.


* *Clean*: Boats, trailers and equipment — remove mud, debris and aquatic plant material before transport.
* *Drain*: Live wells, bilges and ballast tanks by pulling drain plugs before transport.
* *Dry*: Boats and equipment thoroughly before the next use or clean with a pressure washer or chemical disinfectant before entering a different body of water.
* *Dispose (for anglers)*: Place unwanted bait in the trash — never release bait into the water.

Violations are considered state civil infractions and can result in fines up to $100.

"Interested in learning more about invasive species? Don’t miss the NotMISpecies webinars [ [link removed] ]. And, remember, they’re NotMISpecies — don’t make them yours!"



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Camping in bear country this summer?

black bear standing in brush

Michigan is home to about 12,400 black bears that spend much of their summer looking for food. If you're planning to camp in the Upper Peninsula or northern Lower Peninsula, keep these tips in mind for safely interacting with bears.


* Keep food in bear-resistant containers or out of sight in a locked vehicle or hard-sided camper. If rustic camping, hang food at least 10 feet high and 10 feet away from large tree limbs to prevent bears from reaching it.
* Maintain a clean camp, especially keeping grills clean and properly disposing of food waste in a trash receptacle or at least 100 yards downwind of your camp. Even clothes and towels used while cooking food may attract bears.
* Do not intentionally feed bears. Feeding can cause bears to become habituated to people and lead to conflicts.
* If you see a bear, do not panic. Bears are naturally afraid of people. Make loud vocalizations like “Hey bear” and wave your arms to look big and intimidating. Do not run, and keep dogs leashed.

To learn more about coexisting with bears, visit BearWise [ [link removed] ] or Michigan.gov/Wildlife [ [link removed] ] or contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453.



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Join us for an overnight camping adventure

tents spread across lawn in front of brick buildings

Join us for two fun-filled overnight family campouts great for first-time and seasoned campers!

The Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit will host the first campout Aug. 7-8 [ [link removed] ]. Pitch your tent on the front lawn and enjoy fishing, archery, games, a cozy campfire with s’mores and a pancake breakfast in the morning. Then, Maybury State Park will host the next campout Aug. 21-22 [ [link removed] ] in Northville. Enjoy a night under the stars, complete with a night hike, games and another s’more-filled campfire experience.

Need gear? Request a loaner tent when you register. Both events require preregistration and cost $45 per site. 

"Camping not your cup of tea? Check out the Dolls’ Garden Tea Party, Kayaking the Detroit Canals, Nature at Night and more. Visit the OAC calendar of events [ [link removed] ]."



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Roll up your sleeves at a volunteer stewardship workday

volunteer smiling at camera holding seed collector

The DNR’s Volunteer Stewardship Program [ [link removed] ] provides opportunities to protect and restore southern Michigan’s native ecosystems.

You can join volunteer stewardship workdays at several southern Michigan state parks. You'll help remove invasive plants, protect our high-quality natural areas, collect native plant seeds, learn about state park ecology, make friends and more.

Register for a workday ► [ [link removed] ]









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DNR* Recreation Search*

Fishing pier? Check. Full hook-up? Found it. Picnic area? Definitely.

Use our powerful filters to find the perfect state park, campground, nonmotorized trail, amenity and more!

Michigan.gov/RecSearch ► [ [link removed] ]

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