Michigan state parks news - September 2022

Straits State Park staff surprised?Dennis and Stephenie M. of Plainwell as the holders of the?DNR's 1 millionth camp night reservation of 2022.

Last weekend, they were given a warm welcome and gifts, including a $100 Michigan state park and harbor gift card!?

Keep in mind that campsite reservations can be made up to six months in advance and overnight lodging (cabins, yurts, safari tents and lodges) reservations can be made up to a year in advance. Visit?MiDNRReservations.com.

For many, the term ?riding? soon will take on a whole new meaning at Silver Lake State Park.

Registration is open now for the first official shoreline riding season (Nov. 1-30), when horseback riders will have the unique opportunity to ride the Lake Michigan shoreline. Registration fee is $10 per horse per day, and 100 slots are available each day.?

Visit Michigan.gov/Equestrian to find the registration link, learn more about the shoreline riding program and find other horseback riding information.

Whether it?s on foot, horseback, a mountain bike, an ORV or in a canoe, we invite you to celebrate Michigan Trails Week, Sept. 18-25, with us.

To pay tribute to Michigan?s extraordinary trail system, find a new trail adventure, revisit your favorite route or make it social. Be sure to follow MiStateParks on both Facebook and Instagram to find ideas on how to celebrate all week long.?Visit?Michigan.gov/DNRTrails?for more information, maps and ways to donate.?

Hundreds of donors and several friends groups have helped solidify Michigan as No. 1 in the nation for track chair availability in state parks.

As part of a fundraising campaign to increase accessibility, 14 track chairs have been placed in 11 state parks ? with more to come! These special off-road, electronic chairs tackle muddy trails, snow, sand and other challenges that traditional wheelchairs can?t.

Find out how you can borrow track chairs in Michigan state parks, as well as ways you can support track chairs.

Nestled on the northern shore of Higgins Lake, the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center?offers a?unique way to experience "up north" with special fall programs.

Kayaking 101 paddling (Sept. 10, 11, 19, 24, 26): Whether, you're breaking into a new hobby or looking to refresh your paddling skills, you'll gain confidence during this four-hour class. The event is free. An optional lunch is $14.

Lodge and Learn: Nature's Palette (Oct. 21-23):?Design your very own weekend getaway with this art-themed, forestry-focused retreat. Your stay includes two nights of lodging, all your meals and choice of classes, including a Bob Ross painting class, forest bathing, a mushroom class, photography and much more.