MI State Park Reservations Opening Soon for 4th of July Camping

Michigan State Park campsite reservations for the Fourth of July are opening soon. Now, you can book your camping spot up to six months in advance. So, if you want to camp on July 4th, start booking on January 4, 2024. If your trip starts a few days before, book six months ahead of that date.

Tent camping has had this six-month window for a while, but now it includes other options like yurts and cottages. There are various choices to pick from. The unique lodging choices include geodesic domes, quaint cottages, safari-style tents, tiny houses, and more.

According to insights from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, reservation data over the past few years indicates that the majority of campers make their reservations about six months in advance. The DNR also notes that the shortened reservation window addresses challenges faced by those unable to plan trips a year ahead.

If you're camping in a state park, note that the price of a Recreation Passport is going up by $1 in 2024, making it $14 for the year. This passport not only gets you into campgrounds but also allows entry to state parks for day use and lets you use boat launches.

You can buy these passports when you renew your car registration or at state parks. Keep in mind, if you buy it at a park instead of during registration renewal, there's an extra $5 fee (except for Belle Isle Park). Additionally, there is no extra fees for mopeds.

It's worth emphasizing that although some residents may have already received renewal notices reflecting the old fee, the new rate will take effect on January 1, 2024, for all in-person and online transactions.

Purchasing a resident Recreation Passport separately online is not an option. The passport is valid for a year or until your license plate registration expires. If obtained during your license plate registration renewal, your license plate tab will bear the letter "P." However, if acquired at a different time, you will receive a sticker that needs to be permanently affixed to the lower passenger-side windshield.

In Michigan, you can bring your furry friends along when you visit certain state parks and campgrounds, state forest campgrounds, state-managed harbors, state-designated trails, and boat launches. Just keep in mind that there might be some restrictions and some of the rules change according to the season.

There are some situations where you won't be able to bring your pets. These include designated swim beaches where pets are not allowed, areas that are protected for endangered species, and any areas that are specifically marked as off-limits for pets.

Another important thing to note is that even when your pets are enjoying a dip in the water, they still need to be leashed. Michigan requires a 6-foot leash for pets, even when they are in the water. This rule helps ensure everyone's safety and prevents any potential mishaps.

Where can you find pet-friendly state park beaches in Metro Detroit? There are more than 35 places to take your fur friend for a swim.  From Algonac and Mears, to Silver Lake. Here are 4 state parks that are not too far from Metro Detroit.

Brighton Recreation Area in Livingston County is a wonderful destination for dog owners. Dogs on leashes are allowed on the trails and a portion of the shoreline, Chilson Pond. You and your beloved furry companion can explore numerous miles of trails that offer a mix of varying and elevated hills and beautiful lakes.

Just outside the swimming area, Dodge #4 State Park features a specially designated beach where pets are welcome. Additionally, it offers a sandy beach and a stretch of one mile along the shoreline of Cass Lake.

Located south of the designated swim beach, there is a stretch of shoreline along Heron Lake where dogs can swim. The park covers 8,007 acres of rolling woodlands and fields, offering a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, boating, disc golf, fishing, and mountain biking.

Dogs have the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim along the shorelines of the Huron River and Proud Lake. It's located right on the gorgeous Huron River and offers an abundance of recreational options for everyone.