The Department of Natural Resources is inviting the public to "GO-Get Outdoors" and visit the Portage Lake Unit of Waterloo Recreation Area on Saturday, June 13, for a "Summer Celebration" to promote summer fun and safety while providing new recreational opportunities.

"This event provides an excellent opportunity to get outdoors and try a variety of new recreation activities," said DNR Park Lead Ranger Nikki Van Bloem.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring the family to the park to meet Smokey Bear or join the Rendezvous Encampment to learn pre-1850 survival skills, such as how to throw a tomahawk. Archery will be taught by the Michigan Traditional Bowhunters with re-curve and long bows.

Since it is DNR's Free Fishing Weekend when no fishing license is required, there will be a fishing clinic geared toward children and individuals wishing to learn more about the sport of fishing. The clinic is being sponsored by the Jackson Area Bass Busters. The Xriders will be on hand to show visitors how to kayak, and the Coast Guard will offer free boat safety inspections.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, Classroom Critters will have two programs with live snakes. Ann Arbor Area Disc Golf will be on-hand to demonstrate disc golf on the Waterloo course. Wilson Bloodhounds will have their hounds out doing tracking demonstrations, while Waterloo Township Police Department will be handing out Child ID kits.

Saturday night, a Waterloo Discovery Center naturalist will present an astronomy program, followed by stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers of Jackson.

All activities, except stargazing, will be held at various times between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Portage Lake Campground is located within the Waterloo Recreation Area on Seymour Road, about 15 miles west of Chelsea, Exit 147 or 150, off I-94. The campground offers 136 modern campsites with accessible sites and restrooms. Camping reservations for this fun-filled event can be made online at www.midnrreservations.com, or by calling the DNR's central reservation system at 800-447-2757.

For more information about this event, the park, accessibility, or persons needing accommodations to attend this event, contact the park supervisor at (734) 475-8307 (TTY/TDD 711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired), or visit www.michigan.gov/waterloo.

Guests are reminded that alcohol is prohibited at Portage Lake.

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

Join the DNR in celebrating the 90th anniversary of Michigan State Parks (1919-2009) this year. Events are being posted at www.michigan.gov/dnrgogetoutdoors.