Campers who would like to celebrate Christmas in July will get their chance at Hayes State Park July 25-27 when the park celebrates its inaugural "Holly Days at Hayes."

Department of Natural Resources state parks and recreation officials said campers are invited to decorate their campsites and enjoy other festivities in this summer celebration of the winter holidays. The best decorated campsites will receive awards.

Activities begin Saturday at 8 a.m. at the campground host campsite and run all day. Events include a holiday bike parade, a Santa's workshop with crafts for the kids, a special program by the park's explorer guide, a children's fishing contest and more. The day will end with a glow lantern walk through the campground to enjoy the decorated campsites.

"We asked for suggestions from our users for 'GO-Get Outdoors' events they would like to see at Hayes State Park," said Timothy Bauer, park supervisor. "The overwhelming response was for a Christmas-in-July weekend, so we are pleased to announce our first Holly Days at Hayes."

Campers also are asked to bring non-perishable food and paper products to donate to the local food pantry.

"During the winter holidays, a number of organizations collect and donate food, but our local food pantry indicated they have a need for donations throughout the year," said Jim Knox, event planner. "This is a way our campers can help those who are less fortunate."

Hayes State Park is located at 1220 Wamplers Lake Road in Onsted. Camping reservations can be made online at www.midnrreservations.com, or by calling 800-44-PARKS. For more information about Holly Days at Hayes, contact the park at (517) 467-7401.

All vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the park entrance. Cost is $24 for a resident annual and $6 for a resident daily. A nonresident annual is $29 and a nonresident daily is $8.