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"*Michigan state parks news - September 2025*"
Let the season 'fall' into place
a little boy leaning on stone wall pointing at view
Fall is the perfect time to get outdoors. From stunning fall foliage and cozy campfires to cooler weather and fewer crowds, the season offers a wealth of opportunities to explore. Plus, with fewer people traveling, it's easier to find the perfect campsite. Here are a few tips to make autumn trip-planning a breeze:
* Our all-new RecSearch website [ [link removed] ] checks every box. You can use location-based searches and powerful filters to find exactly what you need, whether it’s a full-hookup site, a park with horseback riding, a tent-only site or much more.
* Use Pure Michigan's fall color map [ [link removed] ] to plan your day trip or overnight.
* You can stay at a rustic state forest campground [ [link removed] ], which are typically first come, first served.
* Discover your new favorite trail and immerse yourself in fall’s vibrant views by visiting Michigan.gov/DNRTrails [ [link removed] ]. You’ll find maps, closure information, trail etiquette tips and more.
* Head to the Porkies for a fall color chairlift ride [ [link removed] ] Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 20-Oct. 11.
"Photo taken at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park by Michigan state parks photo ambassador Jamie Ball [ [link removed] ]."
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Hunters Feeding Michigan empowers deer hunters
person in apron standing in front of large refridgerator
Since 2007, the Hunters Feeding Michigan [ [link removed] ] program has processed more than 2.8 million servings of venison, providing high-quality protein to neighbors in need.
The key to this program's success? Deer hunters donate their harvest to a network of participating processors without having to pay a process fee. From there, the Food Bank Council of Michigan and Feeding America network get this nutritious, high-protein food to those who need it most.
Donating a deer isn’t the only way to help Hunters Feeding Michigan, though. Anyone can make a monetary online donation [ [link removed] ] or check "yes" when purchasing a hunting or fishing license.
Need more info? Email
[email protected].
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Applications open for Michigan State Park Photo Ambassadors
silhouettes of father and two kids standing on shoreline
We're looking for passionate Michigan State Park Photo Ambassadors [ [link removed] ] to share their outdoor adventures and inspire others to get outside.
Ambassadors sever two-year terms and should have a passion for Michigan's outdoors, a talent for capturing compelling photos and videos, a public Instagram or Facebook account to share your content and a desire to encourage others to explore Michigan's natural beauty.
In return, you'll receive exclusive swag, opportunities to connect with other ambassadors at meet-ups and an invite-only group chat. Plus, we often use these images in official park promotions!
Ambassador applications [ [link removed] ] are open now through Oct. 12. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram [ [link removed] ] and Facebook [ [link removed] ]!
"Photo taken at Warren Dunes State Park by Michigan state parks photo ambassador Danielle Grandholm [ [link removed] ]."
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Post-ice storm progress continues
machinery sitting in woods
Thanks to the hard work of DNR staff, trail partners and volunteers, significant progress has been made on restoring trails damaged by the March 28-30 ice storm.
Roughly 80% of state-managed motorized and nonmotorized trails have been cleared and reopened. Work is continuing on the remaining closed sections, and we expect them to be ready for public use soon.
You can find a _map and dashboard [ [link removed] ]_ with the latest status of state-managed trails on the _DNR’s ice storm storm response page [ [link removed] ]_.
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As swim buoys at state parks are removed, swim area designation expires
two buoys in water
As the weather cools and days get shorter, the DNR is beginning to remove swim buoys and the Great Lakes flag system [ [link removed] ] from many state park beaches after Labor Day.
Once buoys are removed, the area is no longer considered a swim area.
These buoys mark the boundaries of designated swim areas, which are established to help identify locations with shallower water (less than 5 feet) and lower risks of dangerous currents and waves. DNR staff inspects these areas approximately every two weeks and adjusts them as needed to maximize safety.
While these beaches remain open to the public, swimming is not recommended. On-shore rescue equipment and safety signage will remain along those sections of shoreline through at least Oct. 1. Additionally, the emergency notification system at Grand Haven State Park will remain active, automatically notifying 911 when a life ring is pulled or the "call for help" button is pushed.
*Michigan.gov/StateParks [ [link removed] ]*
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