The Department of Natural Resources reminds users of Michigan state parks, recreation areas and harbors, that reservations are now being accepted for the 2009 summer camping season. Reservations for harbor slips, campsites, cabins, teepees, and yurts are now available online or through the reservation call center for dates beginning as early as Memorial Day weekend.

"Campsites become available for arrival dates six months in advance of the date a reservation is made, so we are already taking reservations booking campsites for as early as the Memorial Day weekend," said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "Staff at the reservation call center begin taking phone calls at 8 a.m. on weekdays and at 9 a.m. on weekends. New site availability dates roll into the database at those times to be fair to all users."

Campers and boaters who are planning their vacations are reminded to make their reservations now to secure a campsite or slip at their favorite park, recreation area or harbor. Also, while planning your vacations, check out the calendar of events at www.michigan.gov/dnrgogetoutdoors, and select "GO-Get Outdoors," to see what events are being planned in 2009 at your favorite state park, recreation area or harbor. This calendar is updated daily as events are finalized.

Also, for those winter outdoor enthusiasts, there are state parks and recreation areas that remain open for winter camping or outdoor recreation year-round. Some offer rustic camping with no amenities, while others offer semi-modern campsites with site electricity available. Some parks have cabins, mini-cabins, lodges or yurts available to rent all year, and the cabins are mostly heated with wood or propane stoves. So GO-Get Outdoors and enjoy nature year-round.

Reservations can be made online at www.midnrreservations.com, or by contacting the reservation call center at 800-447-2757.

For more information about a specific state park or recreation area, winter camping opportunities, events or accessibility, visit the DNR's Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnr, under the Recreation, Camping and Boating section, or contact the Lansing Office at 517-373-9900 (TTY/TDD711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired).

Permits for the 2009 season also are available to purchase at any state park or recreation area, or online through the Michigan e-store. Cost is $24 for a resident annual motor vehicle entrance permit, or $6 for a resident daily permit. A nonresident annual permit is $29 and a nonresident daily is $8. Resident annual senior discount permits are $6 and can only be purchased in person at a state park or recreation area, or the main office in downtown Lansing, and will require a valid driver's license and vehicle registration. Boating access site permits are available at $24 for an annual permit and $6 for a daily permit.

In 2009, Michigan state parks will celebrate their 90th anniversary. Special events will be planned and announced throughout the year.