The Department of Natural Resources announced today that renovations to the popular Pigeon River Country's Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground in Otsego County are scheduled to begin in September. Temporary closure of the campground will start immediately after Labor Day Weekend on Tuesday, Sept. 2.

These improvements, funded with a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, will be completed prior to the 2009 use season.

The repositioning of campsites, and relocation of vault toilets and water wells within the campground's existing boundaries will increase the number of campground sites from 39 to 41. Each campsite will be regraded, resurfaced and expanded to accommodate two cars and a larger trailer. Campsites will also be outfitted with new picnic tables and fire rings. New access routes to campground amenities will provide improved access for all campers. The completion of these upgrades will bring Pickerel Lake State Forest Campground into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for accessibility.

Questions concerning these improvements may be directed to Brenda Curtis, DNR state recreation planner in the Forest, Mineral and Fire Management Division at 517 373 6260. Information regarding other state forest camping opportunities may be found on the DNR's Web site, www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails, or by calling the DNR Gaylord Operations Service Center at 989-732-3541, extension "0" for the operator.