An amendment to the state's Land Use Orders of the Department of Natural Resources Director was signed by Director Rebecca Humphries at Thursday's meeting of the Natural Resources Commission that will allow the use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) in Twin Lakes and Baraga State Parks. Both state parks, which are located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, are near popular multi-use trails in the U.P. that allow ORV riding.

The amendment will improve access to ORV trails for park visitors by making it legal to operate ORVs on roads within the parks when going to or coming from trailheads. Other ORV use is still prohibited in the parks. The amendment also waives the state park motor vehicle permit requirement for ORVs in both parks.

"This change will increase the recreational opportunities available to park visitors and will attract more ORV enthusiasts to both parks," said Rich Hill Jr., DNR Parks and Recreation Baraga District supervisor. "With the proximity to multi-use trails, these two parks are the optimal place for ORV riders to set up base camp and enjoy a few days of phenomenal trail riding."

Twin Lakes State Park is located across the road from the Bill Nicholls Trail, which spans 37 miles from Mass City to Houghton. Baraga State Park is near an extensive network of designated ORV trails.

Both parks offer modern campgrounds along with the opportunity to stay in mini-cabins. Twin Lakes State Park also offers a newly renovated lodge facility, while campers at Baraga State Park can reserve the popular tepee site.

Detailed information about both parks and reservation information can be found online at www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails.

For more information, contact Rich Hill Jr. at (906) 228-6561.