Clear Lake State Park will host its first annual Fall Festival this year on Sept. 26- 28. In addition to the Harvest Festival, Clear Lake will also host its first annual photography contest.

Many events are planned for the harvest festival including a chili cook-off, pie eating contest, horseshoe competition, scavenger hunt and much more.

Participants in the photography contest are invited to submit up to 10 photos per entrant. Images may be submitted to the park in person or mailed to: Clear Lake State Park, 20500 M33 Atlanta, MI 49709. All entries must be delivered or post marked by Sept. 17, 2008.

The contest is looking for images from the park and/or its vicinity- on land, in the air, campground, day use area, trails or water including Clear Lake. Entry forms can be obtained by calling the park at 989-785-4388. Photographs can be in one of five categories:

• Mammals - Portraits and behavior
• Birds - Portraits and behavior
• Other Wildlife - including insects, amphibians, fish, spiders, and etc.
• Connecting People and Nature - People enjoying the outdoors
• Landscapes and Plant Life - scenic views and native plants in natural settings

The winners of the photography contest will be announced on Saturday at noon. Prizes will be awarded for each category within different age groups. Photographers are welcome to pick up their photos after the event or photos may be left with the park for use in future displays or advertisements.

Reservations for camping are still available and can be made online at: www.midnrreservations.com or by calling 800-44-PARKS (447-2757).

For more information about this event, accessibility, or persons needing accommodations to attend this event, contact the park supervisor at 989-785-4388 (or TTY/TDD711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired) at least seven days prior to the weekend. Information about accessibility details may be viewed at www.michigan.gov/clearlake.

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