Looking for something fun to do for the Memorial Day, 4th of July or Labor Day weekends, or trying to figure out where to take your family vacation?
Department of Natural Resources state park and recreation officials today announced there are still several state park campgrounds with campsites available throughout the summer, including the three holiday weekends. So, “GO-Get Outdoors” and enjoy your Michigan State Parks this summer.
“Campsites become available for arrival dates six months in advance of the date a reservation is made, so, right now, the window is open for reservations into early October,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “People may assume the time has passed to make reservations, but there are still plenty of campsites available at a majority of our state parks for the summer and during the weekdays, including some of our more popular parks.”
Many state parks and recreation areas also offer cabins, mini-cabins, lodges, yurts and even teepees that are available to rent for campers that don’t own a tent or RV. Boaters are reminded to check out the state harbors to determine where slips remain available to reserve this summer.
Reservations for harbor slips, campsites, cabins, mini-cabins, teepees and yurts can be made online at www.midnrreservations.com, or by contacting the DNR’s reservation call center at 800-447-2757.
Individuals and families new to camping are encouraged to take advantage of the DNR’s new “First Time Campers” program, sponsored by Gander Mountain. Persons looking to store their camper or boat between visits to save on fuel costs can sign up for the “Gas Savings Camper Storage Program” being offered again this year at more than 30 state park locations. To learn more about both programs, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr and click on “Recreation, Camping & Boating.”
While planning your trip, or if you are just looking for something fun to do, the “GO-Get Outdoors” calendar at www.michigan.gov/dnrgogetoutdoors lists events taking place at state parks or recreation areas near you. Also join the DNR in celebrating the 90th anniversary of Michigan’s State Parks this year. Events are posted on the calendar.
Motor Vehicle Permits for the 2009 season are available to purchase at any state park or recreation area, or online through the Michigan e-Store. Cost is $24 for a resident annual permit or $6 for a resident daily permit. A nonresident annual permit is $29 and a nonresident daily is $8. Resident annual senior discount permits, which are $6, may be purchased only in person at a state park or recreation area and will require a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration. Boating access site permits also are available at $24 for an annual permit and $6 for a daily permit.
For more information about a specific state park or recreation area, camping opportunities, events or accessibility, visit the DNR’s Web site or contact the Lansing office at (517) 373-9900 (TTY/TDD 711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired).
The DNR is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural resources
for current and future generations.
Great Lakes, Great Times, Great Outdoors
State Campgrounds Located in Manistee, Benzie and Leelanau Counties:
Garey Lake Trail Camp 
Grass Lake State Forest Campground 
Lake Ann State Forest Campground 
Leelanau State Park 
Leelanau-Rustic 
Orchard Beach State Park 
Orchard Beach-Modern 
Platte River State Forest Campground
Tippy Dam Campground-Rustic
Tippy Dam Recreation Area Rustic Campground
Veterans Memorial State Forest Campground
The Betsie Bay Inn has become a destination spot for those wanting to linger over a freshly prepared, globally inspired dinner or hoping to find a place for a relaxing weekend or in need of a unique space to hold that special event. The historic inn was built in 1867, and has been lovingly renovated and recaptured by hosts Leslie and Geoff Perkins. With three restaurants, two large banquet rooms and 17 rental rooms, some with spiral staircases, in-room hot tubs, saunas, steam showers, woodstoves, lofts and sweeping views of Lake Michigan and Betsie Bay. Their extensive wine cellar will be open this summer with a separate menu and dedicated staff for small and intimate occasions.
