Michigan state parks news - June 2025

On two back-to-back days, June 7-8, residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride Michigan’s off-road trails and/or visit a state park and other outdoor spaces – all at no cost – during "Three Free" Weekend. All ORV and fishing rules and regulations still apply.

• Free ORV – Legally ride 4,000 miles of state-designated routes and trails and the state's six scramble areas without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit. Keep in mind that many ORV trails remain closed following this spring's ice storm in northern Michigan. You can find a map and dashboard with the latest status (open, partially open, temporarily closed) of state-managed trails on the DNR’s ice storm storm response page.
• Free fishing – Fish for all in-season species, all weekend long, without a fishing license.
• Free Recreation Passport – Throughout the weekend, the Recreation Passport entry fee that's normally required for vehicle entry at state parks, state-managed boating access sites, state forest campgrounds, thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor spaces will be waived.

In the wake of the March 28-30 ice storm in northern Michigan, the DNR and dedicated local communities have been relentless in their efforts to clear storm damage and restore facilities statewide.

We're proud to report significant progress: 93% of parks and recreation facilities, 27% of state-managed nonmotorized and motorized trails and 36% of state forest roads have been safely reopened.

Witness the storm's impact and our ongoing recovery through drone footage and photos on the DNR's interactive ice storm story map.

Visit the DNR’s ice storm response page to view a dashboard with the latest status (open, partially open, temporarily closed) of state parks, state-managed trails, boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and state forest roads, as well as to find an interactive map, safety updates and more.

Did you know that we have floating water parks in Bald Mountain (opening June 17) and Holly (open now) recreation areas?

Get ready for inflatable slides, challenging climbing walls, bouncy trampolines and a variety of other fun obstacles on these courses.

Plan your visit! Find ticket details, rules, height requirements and hours of operation for each location at Michigan.gov/DNRWaterParks.

Are you ready for a high-tech treasure hunt? Explore Michigan's diverse state parks, trails and other outdoor spaces with "A Park for Every Season," a new series of geotours, each featuring 15 geocaches!

The Michigan Geocaching Organization and the DNR have partnered to create three distinct tours in Michigan's Upper, northern Lower and southern Lower peninsulas.

Want to commemorate your journey? We have geocoins available for purchase (for cachers and supporters), including a base, inserts and a digital souvenir.

Before your next Michigan state park adventure, explore the new, curated Michigan Field Guides!

A partnership between the Library of Michigan and the DNR makes these guides easily accessible on your mobile device. Dive deeper into Michigan's natural world with detailed information on flora, fauna, geology and other natural features, whether you're identifying wildflowers, spotting native birds or learning about unique ecosystems.

Ready for an unforgettable family campout?

Join us as the DNR Outdoor Adventure Center celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special OAC family campout on Friday, July 11, and Saturday, July 12!

No tent? No problem! We have loaner tents available on a first-come, first-served basis. Just remember to bring your sleeping bag, air mattress and pillow.

Preregistration is required, and the camping fee is $35 per site. If you can't make it to the OAC in July, check out the details for Maybury State Park's family campout Aug. 15-16.