Michigan state parks news - January 2023

Snow on the ground and crisp cold air brings new ways to enjoy Michigan's outdoors!

Ice fishing, winter birding, Porkies downhill skiing, a winter luge, snowmobiling, fat-tire biking and cross-country skiing are just a few ways that you can open the curtain on cold-weather fun.?Visit Michigan.gov/WinterFun for ideas on how to enjoy the season.

By the way, the first Free Fishing Weekend of 2023 takes place Feb. 18-19.?All fishing license fees will be waived for two days.

Managing the state's parks and recreation system is a big job. As the DNR works to finalize the draft Parks and Recreation Division Strategic Plan (2023-2027), we're turning to you ? the visitors and residents who know and love these destinations ? for feedback.

The plan ultimately will guide the division in carrying out its mission to "acquire, protect and preserve the natural and cultural features of Michigan?s unique resources, and to provide access to land- and water-based recreation and educational opportunities."

The draft plan review and comment opportunity closes Jan. 20.

We're ringing in the new year with a new class of Michigan state parks photo ambassadors.

Thirty photographers have been selected to work hand in hand with the DNR to curate beautiful images and share their stories, travels and adventures at state parks throughout 2023.

Make sure to follow the?@MiStateParks Instagram page. We also invite you to tap on the 2023?Ambassadors story highlight to meet all 30 ambassadors.

Thank you to our 2022 ambassadors. Seeing these destinations through your lens has helped us highlight Michigan?s state parks, trails and waterways!?

For those of you who love your time in Michigan state parks and harbors, we might have the perfect gig.

The DNR is currently accepting applications for campground and harbor hosts at many locations across the state.

Volunteer hosts are responsible for 30 hours of service per week, such as answering visitor questions, planning activities and performing light maintenance duties. In exchange, camping and slip fees are waived.

Help us welcome metro-Detroit-based artist and lifelong Michigan state park camper Rebecca Goldberg as our newest "These Goods are Good for Michigan" partner.

Goldberg designs bold and positive travel prints, postcards and stickers ? plus much more?? featuring Michigan landmarks. She will donate?a portion of her proceeds to Port Crescent State Park and accessible recreation opportunities.

Visit Goods4Mi.com to see our collection of "These Goods are Good for Michigan" partners, who help raise awareness of and support for the DNR. A portion of proceeds goes back to state parks, trails and waterways.