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First Time Campers Program

Experience camping in a fun, friendly environment at a Michigan state park or recreation area. For just $20, this "edu-vacation" is a great way to enjoy Michigan's woods and waters - with all the gear, guides and good times included.

Setting up the stove

As a First Time Camper, you will receive:

  • Two Nights of Camping
  • Gear provided by Gander Mountain
  • Hands-on instruction on setting up camp and outdoor living from Michigan's most experienced campers
  • All for just $20!

Gear Provided by Gander Mountain includes:

  • (1) 4-person tent
  • (1) tarp
  • (2) camp chairs
  • (1) flashlight
  • (1) lantern
  • (1) camp stove
  • (4) hot dog /marshmallow cookers
  • (2) fishing poles

While you won't get to keep the gear, you will get great discounts on everything you'll be trying, and more!

Choose From 18 Different Parks!

To reserve your First Time Camper experience, contact the park in which you wish to stay, and ask to enroll in the First Time Camper program.
Baraga State Park
906-353-6558
Hoffmaster State Park
231-798-3711
Silver Lake State Park
231-873-3083
(September – October 30th only)
Bay City Recreation Area
989-684-3020
Holly Recreation Area
248-634-8811
Sleeper State Park
989-856-4411
Bewabic State Park
906-875-3324
Metamora-Hadley
810-797-4439
Keith J. Charters
Traverse City State Park

231-922-5270
Cheboygan State Park
231-627-2811
Muskegon State Park
231-744-3480
Wm. C Sterling State Park
734-289-2715
Hartwick Pines
989-348-7068
Pinckney Recreation Area
(Sun-Thur nights Only)
734-426-4913
Wells State Park
906-863-9747
Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
248-666-1020
Young State Park
231-582-7523
Port Crescent State Park
989-738-8663

If you have additional questions on the program, contact Maia Stephens at 989-225-8573 or stephensm3@michigan.gov

This program is for people who have never camped in a Michigan state park or recreation area before. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food, cooking utensils and bedding. Payment is expected at time of reservation. More complete packing lists will be available after making a reservation. A Recreation Passport is required for entry. For more information please visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

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