Text only stories

Text only stories

Ludington State Park

Flying kites on the beach is a tradition when we camp.

Wilderness State Park

What a beautiful park! We especially enjoy the programs put on by the parks. Over the years we have learned about everything from carnivorous plants to bats. Great memories!

Burt Lake State Park: My First Camping Trip

The beginning to a life of great state park camping trips!

McLain State Park Sunset - July 2018

Last summer, I took a week-long camping trip through the UP with one of my best friends. McLain was our first stop--and it was the best possible beginning. Our campsite was just a stone's throw from the rocky shore, and we arrived just before sunset. We sat by the water as the sun made its journey to the horizon, and I was filled with the inexplicable peace of being close to one of nature's wonders. Looking out over the water, I felt like I was on the edge of the world.

Otsego Lake State Park

Our first time camping at Otsego Lake State Park! It will definitely not be our last!

Wilderness State Park

One of the best views I have ever had while camping, looking right out onto Lake Michigan.

J.W. Wells State Park

Worked at JW Wells State Park in 77 - 80, most of the time with my best Friend. We drove from Menominee out to the park almost everyday. Loved it. Learned to love the outdoors and how to take care of it. Was my start to my career with the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management. Remember Jim, & Jim, Marion, Dan, Rich and all the other folks working there. I was an Interpreter one summer, picked up garbage and helped clean the bathrooms, worked at the entrance station and shut down the park at night. Remember the Conservation Officers and State Patrol coming in to make sure we were OK. What a great job for me.

Otsego Lake State Park

My husband and I met at OLSP fifty years ago while camping with our families. We kept in touch through the following years and married in 1972. We have 5 children and sixteen grandchildren who all love to camp. Hubby and I are planning to spend a few days at OLSP in July for our anniversay.

Sleepy Hollow State Park 2018

New hike in sites if you want to tent it away from the main campground . Well worth the extra effort of packing in all your essential gear.

Rifle River State Park Area - Old Park Office and Future Wife

I met my future (and present) wife at the park in 1969 where she worked as the park administrative clerk and I was a summer ranger. She arrived for work my first morning on the job while a fellow ranger and I were eating breakfast at a picnic table outside the park office. She threw a dead mangled fox at our feet that she found on the road on her way in saying we should take care of it. After gagging, I knew right away she was the one for me! Great time exploring the park after work! Watching bats fly out of the old barn at the Ranch at dusk one highlight! Park Superintendent Carl Slosser best boss ever!

Tawas State Park

Just a lucky shot of the sunset at Tawas. It was a beautiful trip to one of my happy places.

Burt Lake State Park

Most of my childhood memories of my birthday were spent camping at Burt Lake State Park . My Dad and his best friend (pictured) would go fishing on the Sturgeon River for trout while the Moms and kids would go to the beach or shop in Indian River. We would climb the stairs in the back of the campground to visit the Cross in the Woods. On the 4th of July we watched nearby fireworks from the beach. Fifty years ago in 1969 I had just turned 10 when the first moon walk happened. We watched it on our little black and white TV under our awning. That night we looked up at the moon as we sat around our bonfire and marveled that people were up there. Finally, no trip was complete until we visited the camp store to buy candy and souvenirs. It turns out the best souvenirs are the memories you make camping with your family and friends.

Hoeft State Park

At Hoeft state park we had an especially friendly critter we named Chippy! He visited us throughout our whole stay and we rewarded him with lots of nuts

Van Buren SP, 2018, Beach Reader

My husband is not much for the swimming but loves the beach for reading and relaxing for over 20 years. We love the solitude and quiet campground just a short walk from the beach. While he devours books and magazines I get to play in the lake and spend hours hunting for unique rocks and fossils. This beach is a favorite of the family!

Van Buren SP, 2018, Beach Buddies

I have been going to Lake Michigan most of my 62 years, traveling from Indiana and Illinois.. Our family has camped at Van Buren the past 21 years. A favorite for its quietude and proximity to beach. A rocky beach for sure but that is part of the attraction. This is one of our daughters and me.

Standing on the West marker at the Meridian-Baseline State Park

We thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of surveying and how the Meridian and Baseline helped shaped all of our land designations. You can learn more about the park in the video we did during our visit: youtu.be/0NSDui5gwRs

Muskegon State Park and tent camping fun! 1969

From tent to trailer camping, our favorite family memories are at Michigan State Parks. Mom really loved when we went from a tent to a camper...we must have too!

Young State Park Easter Egg Hunt celebrating the Centennial

Young State Park hosts an annual Easter egg hunt. To celebrate the centennial we had a drawing for a grand prize camping package. The winner was Lilah from Petoskey pictured here. We had over 200 egg hunters this year.

Silver Lake State Park / Catching air!

Playing at Silver Lake State Park means all day fun!! Catching air was such a thrill. I made sure I had the same machine as all the guys, so I could keep up and give them a healthy dose of competition.

Silver Lake State Park - for the Michigan Adventure Race: Silver Lake Edition

We put on the Michigan Adventure Race: Silver Lake Edition in 2015, the largest adventure race in the United States in a decade! We are coming back to do it again on June 1. Nothing like enjoying a Michigan state park while running, biking, sandboarding and paddleboarding in an Amazing Race-like treasure hunt for hidden flags.

Yankee Springs

Spring break 2019 for a six year old

Ludington State Park in near peak autumn colors

An older drone photo of Ludington State Park. The lighthouse can be spotted in the far distance.

Lower Falls of the Tahquamenon from a drone view

Aerial of the lower falls

Autumn drive in the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness

Fall colors abound in this aerial of the Porcupine Mountain State Park.

Agate Falls from above in Autumn

A birds eye view of Agate Falls

Cliff at Lake of the Clouds - Porcupine Mountains State Park

Most never see the cliff they are standing on when viewing Lake of the Clouds and the Carp River at Porcupine Mountains State Park.

Bond Falls in Autumn from Above

Dismal day, but still grabbed the fall colors and falls from above.

Indian Lake State Park

Favorite day, favorite people, favorite place.

Palms Book State Park

My then fiancé (now husband) and I sharing a laugh in one of our favorite places!

The Tawas Point State Park from above

Fall colors visit the Tawas Point State Park in this image from 2015.

Sleepy Hollow State Park

It was a sunny Spring day 2017. My young adult daughter called me and was particularly down. I told her that I wanted to pick her up and go for a drive. We live in the Greater Lansing Area and decided to take a drive to Sleepy Hollow State Park for a picnic. We sat on a bench near the water and noticed a bird running back and forth trying to get our attention. He was fascinating us. We realized that he was working to distract us from his mate who was dutifully sitting on her nest. It was a beautiful day. My daughter still remembers this as a day of rescue from her depression. THANK YOU!

Kitch-iti-kipi from above

Even from 400 feet in the air you can still see the bottom of the big spring - Kitch-iti-kipi (Palms Book State Park).

Tahquamenon Falls in Autumn

The tannin leached waters match the autumn foliage. This aerial (sorry, it is an old one) attempts to capture the beauty of both.

Pancake Ice at Grand Haven State Park

While you won't find motorhomes and campers parked in the campground during the winter at Grand Haven, there are still hearty beachgoers enjoying the season checking out the ice. Pancake ice is but one of the many ice types to form in Lake Michigan. And what could be a better view of such with the Lighthouse serving as a colorful backdrop.

Bewabic State Park

At just the right angle from above, the island in First lake at Bewabic State Park forms the mitten of the lower peninsula. Here it is captured in fall colors.

Ludington State Park Beach

Every summer, I take the same vacation: I spend the two weeks prior to Labor Day in Ludington, with daily trips to the Lake Michigan beach at the state park. It is gorgeous, peaceful, never crowded. Sometimes I go for a couple hours to swim, and then come back later in the evening to watch the sunset. I've never found another place this perfect. It is my favorite place on Earth.

Otsego Lake State Park

Sundown on Otsego

Tawas Point State Park

Sundown August 2018

View of Mackinac Bridge

View from the small beach near our campsite.

Ludington State Park - June 2018

This trip started another new tradition - adding Ludington to our every growing list of annual SP visits - beauty all around

Hoffmaster State Park Sept 2018 The ever evolving lakeshore

It's very interesting to monitor the ever evolving landscape on the lakeshore

Hoffmaster State Park - Sept 2018 Ladybug reunion?

One of many curiosities on this Hoffmaster trip!

Interlochen State Park - August 2018

Displaying our athletic loyalties to everyone in the park - #golakers #GVSU #gotigers

Hoffmaster State Park - August 2018

Enjoying Hoffmaster State Park

Ionia State Park July 2018

Watching the storm come in over the lake at Ionia State Park

Ionia State Park - July 2018

Enjoy a sunset at one of Michigan's hidden gems - Ionia State Park

Hoffmaster State Park - June 2018

Annual creek comparison from spring to summer 2018

Ludington State Park - June 2018

Enjoyed a walk on the shoreline!

Ludington State Park - June 2018 Wildlife enjoying the visitors

Enjoyed the wildlife while walking through this beautiful park

Hoffmaster State Park - April 2018 Yes that's snow!

Spring camping at Hoffmaster State Park, despite the snow!

Yankee Springs State Park - Nov 2016

Sunset over Gun Lake - Yankee Springs fall camping November 2016

Hoffmaster State Park - 2016

Love it when my grandkids come to visit! play day at Hoffmaster State Park

Hoffmaster State Park - 2016 Spring camping Lake Michigan lakeshore

Beautiful spring day on the lakeshore

Hoffmaster State Park - April 2016 Toe-dipping in Lake Michigan

Spring camping can be undpredictable, but this trip was warm enough to dip our toes!

Yankee Springs State Park - Nov. 2015 Walking with my honey

Walking the trails with my honey in Yankee Springs State Park during fall camping

Yankee Springs State Park - 2015 My morning view!

This visit started a new tradition of fall camping at Yankee Springs SP

Interlochen State Park - 2014

Campfire fun at Interlochen SP

Hoffmaster State Park - 2014 Traditional creek picture

Traditionally we take a picture of Black Creek every time we are camping to compare from season to season.

Hoffmaster State Park - 2014 An angry Lake Michigan in September

September 2014 was a cold and blustery visit

Wilderness State Park - 2013

Sunset on the lake...Wilderness State Park

Wilderness State Park - 2013 View of the bridge

Love northern Michigan!! It's like a world of its own...we are so blessed!

Muskegon State Park - View from the trailer - 2013

First time staying at Muskegon SP! It's gorgeous.

Hoffmaster State Park - 2013 Spring visit

We camp at Hoffmaster several times each year starting in April. Every year it is interesting to watch the variations in the shoreline.

Sunset on Duck Lake, Interlochen State Park

Interlochen is one of our favorite state parks. We enjoy the park, visiting Traverse City, and Interlochen Arts Camp!

Orchard Beach State Park

Water, fun, sun, and camping! Our state parks are the best!!

Orchard Beach State Park - Best sunsets and great camping memories with the boys

Camping at the state parks is our favorite summer activity. So much to do and explore.

Proud Lake Recreation Area

Stayed here in early April. Very cold but stayed warm in one of the two heated mini cabins offered. Bathrooms had just been opened which was great for the kids.

Tawas Point State Park 2016

Zachary (middle, 4), Nathan (right, 1), Owen (left, 1) at annual group camping trip, 2016.

Double Trouble at Hartwick Pines State Park

How do we work this thing?!

Port Crescent State Park

2015 annual group camping trip. Lots of babies means lots of umbrellas and beach naps!

Kitch-iti-Kipi

Visiting Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) for the first time. December 2018.

Silver Lake State Park 2014

The biggest and best sandbox for an almost 2 year old!

Trails at Marl Lake, South Higgins Lake State Park

Our family in 2017 at the spot where we got engaged in 2006.

CCC Museum at North Higgins Lake State Park

Checking out the CCC Museum at the North Higgins Lake State Park (2017)

Upper Tahquamenon Falls

The kids' first trip to the U.P.

Sunrise Run finisher at South Higgins Lake State Park

Mom with her 3 boys after finishing the 2015 Higgins Lake Sunrise Run.

Mother's Day Hiking at Brighton State Rec Area

Family hike on Mother's Day weekend 2018.

Triceratops Triathlon at Island Lake State Rec Area

Our first triathlon.

Twins' first camping trip at North Higgins Lake State Park

Owen (left), Nathan (right) at about 5 months old for their first camping trip!

Silver Lake State Park 2014

Annual friends camping trip 2014. This was the trip we tent camped with an almost-two-year old and it was a low of 37!

Yankee Springs State Rec Area

Summer 2018 annual friends & family camping trip. 8 kids under age 6! (10 adults ... at least we out-numbered them!)

Playing in the water at North Higgins Lake State Park

Zachary (back, 5), Nathan (green, 3), and Owen (blue, 3) having a water fight!

North Higgins Lake State Park

Late summer 2014

Highland State Recreation Area

Family nature hike in the spring.

Port Crescent State Park Org Area

My husband and I met each other in Port Austin, MI. The area where we chose to take our wedding photos is part of Port Crescent State Park on the old Trestle Bridge. We went on many dates to this area to walk the trails and watch sunsets. We continue to visit often.

Interlochen State Park

Each year on our anniversary, I put on my wedding gown. In 2017 we were at Interlochen State Park.

Proud Lake Fishing trip

Many fond memories on the Huron River in the rec area

Bond Falls Scenic Site

Enjoyed a beautiful August weekend with a motorcycle ride to Bond Falls Scenic Site, we have been to plenty of waterfalls and this one is in our top 3!

Lake Gogebic State Park

A peaceful September evening camping at Lake Gogebic State Park

Island Lake Recreation Area

My husband and I frequently enjoy riding the paved bike trail through the Island Lake State Recreation Area. In fact it has become part of our spring- to- fall exercise. In this photograph, we experienced an unusually warm February day so of course we headed out to the park. We enjoy the variety of hills and long stretches through meadows and forested areas.

Ludington State Park

Tubing on Hamlin Lake

Ludington State Park

Our favorite spot

Yankee Springs State Park

We live 20 minutes from Yankee Springs. We've been going there since our kids were small to swim and hike. We have made so many family memories there together. I can't imagine not having this wonderful resource so close to home.

Lime Island Recreation Area

Come visit the oldest industrial site in the State of Michigan – Lime Island! This hidden and forgotten gem is loaded with history and only accessible by boat. It is well worth the effort to see the very pristine island settings. There are lime kilns older than many other industrial sites in Michigan. Visit the Victorian House and the School House built and used by the past residents of the Lime. Stay on your boat in the harbor or rent one of the rustic cabins from the State or camp out on the tent platforms all with the best water views it the Upper Peninsula. The Freighter traffic is second to none and the sunsets are the best in the Upper Peninsula by far. Walk the many trails through old growth forests and you may see deer, coyote, rabbit, squirrels and if you are real lucky you may see the occasional transient wolf, bobcat, moose or black bear. Just remember it’s an Island in all its rustic form.

Proud Lake Camping trip

Family camping trip in 2016 when our Granddaughter said " Grandma I want to live at camping".

Waterloo Lantern Ski

Enjoying one of the awesome winter lantern hike events at Waterloo state rec area

Blind Lake Winter Trip Pinckney Recreation Area

First backpack trip of the year, the Potowatami Trail, 2/22/19

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Perfect mirror image sunset, stunning. We have a copy on our living room wall.

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Camping at Proud Lake, relaxing & close to home.

Duck Lake State Park

Duck Lake channel connects to Lake Michigan, warm & shallow good for young children, nice beach.

Duck Lake State Park

Sand designs

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Nature at its finest.

Tahquamenon Falls

Hiking around upper & lower Falls.

Belle Isle Conservatory

This elegant building hosts an impressive amount of diverse plant species.

Lake Michigan Ludington State Park

Walking on Ludington State Park beach shore of Lake Michigan. As beautiful as Florida!

Belle Isle Conservatory

I could live at the Belle Isle Conservatory

Lake Hudson Itself

Lake Hudson was absolutely beautiful and calm. We camping during an off time and had a lot of privacy. Bright lake by day and bright stars by night.

Lake Hudson’s Shadows

A beautiful contrast of Queen Anne’s Lace.

Staghorn Sumac at Lake Hudson Recreation Area

Making some staghorn sumac syrup for supper.

Big Sable Lighthouse

Family camping trip to Lake Michigan in Ludington Michigan 2016.

The Tower at Rifle River State Park

The tower at Rifle River is always a breathtaking 360 degree view.

Brighton State Geocashing

Upon hiking to explore fungi this little box caught our eye, stuffed into a tree knot.

Fort Custer Fungi

A beautiful conk mushroom, Ganoderma applanatum

Muskallonge Lake State Park

Walking the beach of Superior , listening to her music.

Wilderness state park

Fall Fest 2018 Sunday morning pancake breakfast in the dining hall

Island Lake State Recreation Area

I live on the Huron River just downstream from the ILSRA. I have been fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, etc. the river for the past 75 years. My favorite memory as a boy is taking my lunch and fishing equipment in our boat, and rowing up the river into the ILSRA to spend a the whole day alone. Those were special days, even if I didn't catch a fish.

Mears State Park, beach play area

Every year small changes to the park happen, some natural and some man made. This picture shows the "new" playground in the background. After this picture was taken other changes occurred. See if you can spot what they are this summer.

Ludington State Park

Our first trip to Ludington State Park was a really memorable one as our son learned to ride his bike for the first time, had an awesome time on the beach and walking out to the lighthouse.

Grand Haven State Park - Bacon anyone?

The Rigg Family end of summer, beach front view, fireside breakfast. #PureJoy

Muskallonge Lake State Park

My view when heading out for a gorgeous morning walk along the shore. The evening before there were high winds and the waves roared all night but now all was peaceful and serene.

Hoeft State Park...Sunset on the dunes overlooking Lake Huron (July 2018).

There was a path to the dunes right next to our campsite, so I walked up to the top to watch the sunset...very peaceful and beautiful.

Bewabic state park

super park

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

We climbed the watchtower at Summit Peak right as a storm was coming in. The electricity in the air was so strong that it made our hair stand on end! Luckily we were able to make it back to camp at Mirror Lake before the rain actually started!

Petoskey State Park/Fun on the Dunes

I spent many summers as a child in Michigan State Parks, and have continued the tradition with my own family. Here my daughter and I play on the sand dunes near the beach.

Burt Lake State Park

In August of 2017 my brother drove our 90 year old mother up here from Bellaire for a visit. We were camping here for a week and invited them to join us for dinner. As you can see we served the usual fare; hot dogs, macaroni salad and baked beans. My mother cleared her plate like a good girl!

Hoeft State Park

Little Wesley had his 4th birthday party while camping here. We met everyone for a weekend in July of 2017. We stayed for the rest of the week among the tall pines. Lake Huron was beautiful from the dune beach.

A different view of "the bridge" Straits State Park

In July of 2017 I took this photo of the Mackinaw bridge. Do you know where I was standing? This is a great park to explore the straits area from the north side.

My youngest son and daughter-in-law at Interlochen State Park

My son and his wife visited me here in August 2017 and put their boat in at the launch. They took me on a nice evening excursion of Duck Lake. There's a wonderful beach and store here and I bought their 100th anniversary coffee cup. I keep it in the 5th wheel. This park is an oldie but a goodie!

Glory Lake Hartwick Pines State Park

My wife and I visited here in June of 2017. Hartwick is not a huge campground but the surrounding park is huge. We really enjoyed full hook-ups here and the many trails. Very historic and beautiful.

Palms Book State Park - 2015

Enjoying a beautiful day at Kitch-itti-kippi!

2017 Indian Lake State Park

Nothing like corn hole and hamburgers while camping!

2013 Hoeft State Park - Sand Castle Building

Sand Castle Building Competition during Father's Day Weekend 2013. We won, we were the only ones!

2013 Ludington State Park - Archery Lessons

2013 the grandsons are learning archery presented by the park rangers.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls was the 2nd Michigan State park we visited together back in October of 2009. It had snowed and everything was dusted in white. We canoed to the island at the Lower Falls and had the whole island all to ourselves to explore.

Petoskey State Park

We are Dove and John Day of Petoskey, Michigan and the Petoskey State Park is a very special place to us. This was the first state park we visited together. We continue to visit the park in all seasons, walking along the beach and dunes, catching sunsets, and exploring the ever changing beauty. There's always something new to see! In 2009, I bought John at Michigan State Parks book for Christmas, and we decided that we would visit all of the state parks by the 100th anniversary in 2019. Our entire lives we have explored the beauty of the Michigan State Parks, and for the last 9 1/2 years have made it our goal not to let one pass us by. Together we have been camping, hiking, kayaking and picnicking the parks for almost 10 years, exploring those we’d never been to before, and re-visiting old favorites. We are very thankful to have the Michigan State Parks and Michigan as our playground.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes

The best playground for kids and adults! Climbing enormous sand Dunes and watching dune buggies, jeeps, trucks, and dirt bikes zooming by... A vast sand land of pure freedom and nature. Silver Lake on one side and Lake Michigan on the other. Both easily accessible to swim in.

Waterloo Rec Area November Trip

It rained maple leaves all night!

Exploring Sleeper State Park

Enjoyed a wonderful hike thru the October woods experiencing the wave dunes behind the campground Oct,3,2017

Sterling State Park sand dollar

Thank you to the wonderful fellow camper who planted a sand dollar on the beach at Sterling State Park on June 21,2016 for my granddaughter Shelby to find. I think she was the luckiest girl in Michigan that day!

Porcupine Mountains State Park

Camping at Michigan State Parks with our family, always included going to the nearest small town to find the local bakery for fresh baked good and the Catholic Church Mass schedule, because we always packed a dress to wear to Sunday Mass! This picture was in the Porcupine Mountains circa 1965.

Porcupine Mountains State Park

Our family camped at many Michigan State Parks over the years, usually during the July automotive change over. Mom, Dad, 5 kids in the station wagon and tent. This picture is circa 1961.

Silver Lake State Park

Family Cottage on Silver Lake for over 70 years! A mile from Silver Lake State Park. Excellent ORV area on the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Great swimming! We live here half the year and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else!

Silver Lake State Park

Silver Lake Sand Dunes has been a yearly vacation for my family for years. We go with usually a group of 20+ people who are all friends that we grew up with. I’ve made it a tradition that every year since I got Shelby, my dog in the picture that I will get a sunset pic of her. We love all the fun we have at silver lake. The park is great and the kids have learned to ride.

Silver Lake State Park ORV Area

Sun, sand, sand, more sand. Go to beach on Silver Lake, beach on Lake Michigan, ride the dunes in your Jeep, walk the dunes, go into town and play play play or shop. Or just sit at home with a bonfire and watch all the wild vehicles go by. We want to retire here soon.

Silver Lake State Park

Grandsons first time at the top of test hill!

Holland State Park

Christmas 2018

Silver Lake State Park

Love the view!

Silver Lake State Park

Another beautiful Lake Michigan sunset.

Ludington State Park

Found these downed trees out on the Lost Lake trail a couple years back.

Silver Lake State Park

I have loved spending summer vacations at Silver Lake State Park since 1963...now making memories there with my grandchildren.

Silver Lake State Park ORV Area

Watching the sunset in the dunes is our happy place

Silver Lake

Silver Lake Dunes

Wilderness State Park

First time up at wilderness state park with my best fur-friend Millie and my camper Big Bonnie. Follow our adventures on Instagram @ greatlakesgallivanters

Sleepy Hollow Hike

Just a cool pic!

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Lots of wildlife!

Harrisville State Park Hammock Party

His House Christian Fellowship from Eastern Michigan UNiversity took our annual camping trip to the beautiful sunrise side of the state! A relaxing spring weekend to celebrate the end of the semester!

Ludington State Park, Big Sable Point Lighthouse and Dunes Complex 1916

In 1916, University of Chicago Department of Botany ecologists undertook a field trip to the west side of Michigan. As they surveyed the area near Big Sable Point, on June 6, 2016, photographer George Fuller captured this image of the barren sand dunes with the Big Sable Point lighthouse in the background. Titled “Dune complex behind the lighthouse at Big Sable Point, Ludington, MI,” the image provides a view of the area over 100 years ago. Credit: University of Chicago Photographic Archive, apf8-03038, Special Collections Research Center, University of Chicago Library

Ludington State Park - Come on Pa, just one more run down the sand dune.

My husband and I both went to Ludington State Park with our families when we were kids. We then took our sons there as they grew up. Now we have grandkids and it is still our favorite place to spend time with our family!

Maybury State Park - Fall colors, summer's end

I've been coming to Maybury for over 40 years. But I always end my summer with long walks here.

Fort Custer Recreation Area

Needed to get away after a busy summer

Traverse City State Park

Winter camping at its best! Went camping the night the Polar Vortex started. We still had an very enjoyable weekend.

Maybury State Park: Getting Engaged!

We got engaged by the pond at Maybury State Park. The spot was special for us because our first date was a hike at the same state park.

Belle Isle- James Scott Memorial Fountain

Jessica and Benjamin had family and friends beside them as they were married on July 8th, 2017 in front of the gorgeous marble James Scott Memorial Fountain on Belle Isle in Detroit, MI.

Ludington State Park - Birthday Celebration!

Ludington State Park is one of our favorite parks! Our kids and grand kids love it...lots to do! My wife and I met at Tahquamenon State Park, honeymooned there, married 45 years in May! Take our kids and grand kids camping to State Parks all over Michigan. We love it!

Wilderness State Park

Our family met up with us here in the spring of 2018.

Lakeport State Park

Very first Campbell Reunion in 1946 at lakeport in july.Still going strong. This year marks 73 in July.

Leelanau State Park

Lake Michigan on a May afternoon, a short hike from Evergreen Cabin, where we stayed during a morel foraging weekend.

Lakeport State Park

After my father got out of WW2 in 1945 he felt it was important to have family reunions. So the first reunion was held in July 1946 at Lakeport State Park. As of today the reunion goes on. This year will make 73 years of having it at Lakeport State Park in July. We also have been camping for many years there with as little as 4 sites with up to 10 sites. Memories will continue for years to come.

South Higgins Lake State Park

Family Reunion Sand Castle Contest "Olaf"

Onaway State Park

This was our view from the cabin deck at Onaway State Park overlooking Black Lake in June 2018. The sunsets were spectacular!

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

We shared Tahquamenon State Park in February 2017 with our exchange student from Indonesia. It was her first experience with snow.

Engaged at the lighthouse

I proposed to my now wife at Leelanau State Park (she said yes!). We have made many great memories together in the state parks, but this one tops them all.

Wilderness State Park

I've been visiting Wilderness State Park since 1992 with my family, and in 2014 I went to Wilderness with my university's outdoors club camping. Another university was also camping that weekend, and that is how I met the love of my life! We have been together since the very weekend we met, and life continues to be an adventure everyday for us! I am always amazed at how a place so special to me in childhood continues to be a major part of my life and the stories that come of it.

Fayette State Park

The towers of the smelting furnaces in the ghost town of Fayette.

47 years ago...

In 1971 I met my future wife at Hoffmaster State Park.

Fort Wilkins State Park

Copper Harbor Light House

Wilderness State Park: Mount Nebo family hike

Hiking to Mt Nebo (Nebo/Big Stone Loop trail) with our kids to show them the spot where their parents became engaged.

Wildreness State Park: Popping the question on Mount Nebo

On a bitter cold day in January 2000, while snowshoeing the Nebo/Big Stone loop with my girlfriend of ten years to the day, we paused to catch our breath and take in the view from Mount Nebo. With a pounding heart and hand anesthetized by cold, I fumbled through my pocket, apologetically removed her left mitten, and slipped the engagement ring on her dainty, shaking, frozen finger. Fifteen summers later we returned to Mt Nebo with our two children. The exhausted, hangry kids and relentless cloud of mosquitoes posed an amusing contrast to the solitary bliss of our engagement day. But that's why we went there in the first place. Happy Valentines Day Elizabeth!

Wilderness State Park, Shore of Frozen Lake Michigan

Spartan Sierra Club went up with about 24 or so of its members this February to Wilderness, stayed in a tight rustic cabin with just a dinky stove for heat. Hiked out to the peninsula on Saturday, and the lake was so massive and white, it made everyone so bright and tiny on the arctic landscape that laid before us all. We walked out about half a mile onto the ice, where we saw gigantic flows of ice and snow piled on top of each other, very epic. I took this from the shore as the last few members were hiking back from off the ice. The most in awe I have been in from Michigan's wonderous, everlasting beauty.

Belle Isle

Nancy Brown Peace Carillon - August, 2017

Belle Isle

Anchor from the Edmund Fitzgerald - Dossin Great Lakes Museum - August, 2017

Belle Isle

Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory & kayakers on Lake Takoma - July, 2017

Belle Isle

James Scott Memorial Fountain - July, 2017

Belle Isle

Working on the Belle Isle calendar I wanted to get a picture of the Casino showing two sides of the building. That had to be done when the leaves were off the tree in front so I could capture the tower. Shot before sunrise and after a fresh snow. Waited a couple weeks and finally got a snow forecast. So at 5A.M. on a below zero February morning I set out, got the camera set up and under the watchful eye of the border patrol got my long awaited photo.

Tawas Point State Park

Flying a skeleton kite on a cloudy day at Tawas Point State Park, one of the best places in Michigan to fly a kite

Sturgeon Point State Park

Great finds at Sturgeon Point!

Sturgeon Point State park

Found a Petoskey Stone!

Sturgeon Point State Park

Looking for Petoskey Stones

Sturgeon Point State Park

Sturgeon Pont Light House

Straits State Park

Bridge view from the north side.

Highland State Recreation...A Trail of Love

In 2008, I met my future husband. We started dating and the Highland Recreation Area became our stomping grounds. From Bob's first trail run where I ended up carrying him out of the snow-packed D Loop from dehydration and exhaustion, to our engagement at the intersection of A/B Loop, to our first 17 mile race together called Highland Loops to multiple training runs, we can't love this trail anymore than we already do. From the lush greenery to the lack of people, it is a peaceful, technical trail that gives you many opportunities...just take that first step and that trail just might lead to a forever love.

Ludington State Park on the Lost Lake Trail

Our family camping tradition has been to camp here for over 55 years! I now love continuing it with my family and grandkids. The Lost Lake Trail is our favorite trail that is a must do every time we camp. Many wonderful memories this great park has given us all through the years!

Hartwick Pines State Park: Our Wedding Day!

May 13th, 2017 I married my best friend and love of my life in a small little ceremony at the Chapel in the Woods in Hartwick Pines State Park. The day was absolutely amazing surrounded by all the beauty of the woods and we could not have wished for anything better! For us, it was perfect.

Milliken State Park and Harbor on the Detroit River

Ice breaking up along Detroit’s International Riverfront on a February winter morning

Yankee Springs State Recreation Area - Best Job Ever

Spent a season working at Yankee Springs. A beautiful park with so many recreational opportunities!

Onaway State Park

Beautiful grounds to explore and ride your bikes around, great little hikes, sunsets within touching distance and fireflies at night!

Bay City State Park- Engagement Photos

We love camping at our state parks so we decided to use the beautiful backdrop of the Bay City State Park to use for our engagement photos. We took shots in a few areas around the pond, the marshes and on the beach in the middle of January. The fresh snow provided a perfect back drop for our pictures.

Hoffmaster State Park campground

Great times with the Tin Can Tourists at Hoffmaster State Park, in our restored 1956 Southland Runabout. We are thankful the park allows us to have our rallies there.

Grand Haven

This is a picture of my mom and dad in 1948 on the beach at Grand Haven SP. It was their first (blind) date, arranged by a mutual friend. They later married and spent 61 years together. They always remembered and referred to the Grand Haven date in their stories for years; it was a special place for them.

Tahquamenon Falls Proposal

Upper falls, where the love of my life asked me to be his wife!!

Ludington State Park

I recently moved to Ludington and I am LOVING winter hiking at the state park. Turns out hiking to the lighthouse in snow is easler than in sand!!!! The staff at this park are wonderful.

Island Lake State Recreation Area

Kayaking, hiking, and biking at this lovely recreation area is a big part of my fitness routine. I have lost a lot of weight and being OUTDOORS is a a huge part of keeping it off. State parks feed my mind, my body and my soul

Ludington State Park - Running down the dunes!

Many generations of our family have run down and jumped off the sand dunes at Ludington State Park. Now grandparents, we took our grandson to the park a few years ago for his first run! As you can see by his smile, he loved it!!

Wilderness State Park

Clara and Henry watching sunset at Station Pointe cabin.

Ludington State Park

First time visiting the sand dunes and we spent joyous hours rotating between climbing the dunes and rinsing off in Lake Michigan.....

50 Shades of Blue at Fayette Historic State Park

We couldn't believe the beautiful sights in store for us when we stopped at Fayette Historic State Park. Our visit was just a spontaneous detour--a way to drag our feet before heading back to our boring lives south of the Mighty Mack. However, the stunning vistas of Lake Michigan and Big Bay de Noc that awaited us became one of the highlights of our U.P. trip. And better yet--we practically had the place to ourselves, it was truly a hidden gem! Just add to the reasons Michiganders like to refer to this land as "God's Country." Can hardly wait for our return.

Tawas Point State Park

We had never been here before so we talked the family into meeting us there in summer 2018. It was wonderful and unique. We all had a great time and loved hiking out to the end of "the point." There are ponds and a light house. Because of its location you can stick your toes into Lake Huron on one side and Tawas Bay on the other. My sons caught a couple nice bass in one of the ponds and the dogs loved their own designated beach. Great bike riding and nice town. The sunsets over the bay were breathtaking. We'll be back!

Grand Haven State Park Baby Faces

Grandpa rose to his feet at the high water mark, “Give her to me,” he said. Filled with trepidation, Annelise responded with two out-stretched chubby arms. He held her close and crouched down then used one hand to draw a face in the wet sand. “Look it’s a baby!” he exclaimed. I wanted to rescue this scared Brooklyn baby on her first trip to the beach, but my son’s eyes flashed a knowing look - “She’ll be ok, Mom.” Grandpa drew another face, “Oh my, where did the baby go?” he asked over and over as each smiling baby face washed out on a wave. Annelise mustered the courage to stay, settled in, and relaxed one foot into the sand. Her toddler finger reached out to touch the baby’s face, but the wave lapped it up first and washed it out into the lake. “Where did the baby go?” she asked Grandpa. With each new baby face her fear subsided until her bottom sat on the sand and Grandpa let her go. This photo captures that moment in time on June 13, 2013, a windy summer day on the beach at Grand Haven State Park.

Rivermouth Campground Tahquamenon Falls State Park

I could not pass up taking this photo of the Tahquamenon River last fall (2018). The colors were breathtaking to say the least and I am so grateful to have had that time with my family in such a beautiful place. It reminded me of the gift from a higher power that is there if we only take the time to look and let it in. I love this park and look forward to visiting again soon.

Young State Park

At a certain time of year we have the beach to ourselves and warm weather to boot! Don't tell any one, ok? This certainly has been one of our favorites for over forty years. The kids were so young when we first came here. Such memories, like the time we were all sitting around the fire after dark and Grampa was nonchalantly hand feeding potato chips to what we all thought was a bear cub. In the dimly lit periphery as it turned out, was one of the largest raccoons we had ever seen. (at least that close-up) After Gramma began her "tirade" which scared the raccoon away, Grampa apologized for forfeiting an entire bag of chips to feed the "poor starving" animal. It's hard to teach the kids not to feed the animals when Grampa does it right in front of you. I miss that man. What adventures we had...

Ludington State Park

Best sunsets in the state

Silver Lake State Park

After being coaxed into visiting this park for the first time by my ORV loving sons, I thought my wife was going to have a heart attack when # 2 son got us stuck at the top of "Test Hill." #1 son had to come up behind and pull us off the crest of this dune with his truck and a tow strap. At the time the experience seemed somewhat nerve wracking but I have to admit it was really exciting. As for my wife, she expressed herself explicitly upon our return to the bottom of the dune. Another state park memory to revisit with the boys for years to come. Summer 2018.

Indian Lake State Park

After over forty years of michigan camping, we finally stayed at this park for the first time. We quickly realized it was going to be on the one of our favorites list. Summer 2018

Port Cresent Birds of Prey

Bird of prey and river area

Port Crescent State park

Camping at the park

Straits SP, summer of 2014 family vacation

The summer that we bought our camper, we decided to make a vacation out of the drive to pick her up in MI. We loved the UP!!

Grand Haven State Park on family vacation from TN in 2014

The summer that we bought a pop-up camper, we had to drive to Flint, MI to pick it up so we decided to make a vacation out of it and we LOVED the shore of Lake Michigan!

Madilene's Michigan Winter Adventure

Wintertime in Northern Michigan. Madilene can not Luge yet... but we will get her ready! Sarah and I are having so much fun with her. We went to Muskegon Luge & Sports Complex, Muskegon State Park, Muskegon State Park , White River Light Station, and Lake Michigan Shoreline & Dunes.

Duck Lake State Park

We got Married in the middle of Trail 14 at Duck Lake State Park. It literally looked like a fairy-Tale, couldn't have chosen a better location!

Craig lake state park

Experiencing the fall with my bae in northern Michigan was a life changing and character building experience. I can’t wait to go back to Craig lake and continue exploring this spring!

Silver Lake State Park dunes hike

First time visiting this amazing scene with my partner, who has come here for solace & adventure for many years. Now, we adventure together!

Petoskey State Park Hiking Trails

Epic hour and a half hike with my dog, Pokka, in the early fall at Petoskey State Park! Steep ridge trails, deep ravines, beautiful canopy of trees.

Holland State park

A great bike ride from Holland State Park to West Olive and back. Really enjoyed the dedicated bike route and smooth roads.

Holland State Park

Visited Holland for the tulip festival and had to make a stop at the state park!

Port Crescent State Park

We just found this state park! We love it!

Ludington State Park

My husband and I come here to camp every year! Love bringing our dog!

Tahquenamon Falls State Park

Took my sister camping and up to the Falls and we hiked for hours. Love this place!

Hoffmaster State Park freighter at sunset

Freighter passing on horizon during a stunning sunset

Port Cresent State Park - Night Sky Reserve

A very cold night in Sept. 2016. My son Jeremy, his fiancée and I shooting the stars.

Wilderness State Park

Started hiking a trail in Wilderness State Park and then he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! We have been married for almost two years now and loving him more and more every day! Our favorite thing to do is go camping in Michigan State Parks, but it all started at Wilderness!!

Holland State Park

Family road trip to see the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, specifically the sand dunes area. It was an amazing trip, we've told tons of others they need to visit if they have never been! Our favorite spot was just north of Pentwater where the above picture was taken as the sun was setting over beautiful Lake Michigan!

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Solar Eclipse

August 2017, Lake of the Clouds from Escarpment Trail during maximum solar eclipse. 75% of the sun was obscured. Overcast, but still awesome!

Burt Lake State Park

Burt Lake State Park-1923

Burt Lake State Park-Original Observation Tower

Original Observation Tower at Burt Lake State Park

Tahquamenon Falls

Tahquamenon State Park summer 2001

Lake Michigan Campground, Muskegon State Park

While serving as campground host for many years, John and I started a memory book in which returning campers would sign their photos of bicycle/Smokey Bear Parades, sand castle and scavenger hunts as well as craft activities and Explorer Guide programs. We have memories of homemade shuffle board equipment tournaments, very early street hockey games out side our door, and the wonderful guy who came every year from California just to wear the Smokey Bear costume to lead off the bicycle parade, of dog rescues after the fireworks and passing out comfort and taking insurance photo after running through hail storms to alert campers of the bad storms. We shopped yard sales all summer for bicycle parade decorations, took in donations for the loan out games, and received donations of trophies and ribbons to pass out for sand castle or scavenger hunts. When people started asking to leave beach equipment, we started a "Leave/Lend" trunk of beach toys and every day we watched it empty, only to see it fill again.Our lasting joy is that over 10 years later, we still have campers and summer staff come up to us at the the most unexpected times! We served but received the first blessing, even if I did have to set the alarm for 7 a.m. coffee everyday!

Ludington State Park

A perfect Ludington sunset

Metamora-Hadley State Park

Every fall for 30 years our friends and family have gathered for the Harvest Campout at Metamora-Hadley. This picture is from the year after our dearest friend, Superman to us all, passed. We honored his memory dressed as Superman at our annual state park celebration.

North Higgins lake State Park

A surprise visitor on the hiking trail

Bodi lake State campground

Early foggy morning fishing on Bodi lake. This campground is managed by Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

Grand Haven

May of 2018 enjoying the sunshine

Wells State Park-better than Disney!

My husband and I, along with our 4 children, have been avid campers for 35 years. Back in the 80’s a coworker told us about Wells SP and thus began a yearly odyssey from Chicago’s NW suburbs to the shores of Green Bay. Over the years we’ve made some lasting friendships and watched the lake come and go and come again. One summer when the kids were still in school, we asked if they preferred Disney World or Wells SP for our summer vacation. Unanimously they chose “JDub”! And we’ll all be seeing you again this summer at our happy place on the lake!

Palm Brooks State Park-Kitch-iti-kipi

Wow! what an amazing place. Kitch-iti-kipi is one of the coolest places in Michigan. The raft and the fish you can see in the clear blue water. I visited it for the first time in September 2018. It is on my bucket list again for 2019. Thank you for keeping this place "pure Michigan."

Fort Wilkins Historic State Park

My first visit to Fort Wilkins Historic State Park was to participate in the 2018 Michigan Cares for Tourism event last September. What an awesome historic site and I even got to help paint a historic building. Very cool experience and definitely a place to visit again.

Leelanau State Park - Hiking at the Trailhead

We loved hiking at the Trailhead at the Leelanau State Park this past weekend. It was chilly but a great trail system and an amazing view of Cathead Bay. Thanks for keeping this place beautiful and open to the public.

Leelanau State Park

The scenery around the park can be spectacular on a cold winter day.

Muskegon State Park

Making a little splash during extended seasons!

Silver Lake State Park

Ready to ride at Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Muskegon State Park

One of the best ways to experience our shoreline.

Muskegon State Park

A most wonderful day riding our horses with our daughter on the shoreline of Lake Michigan!

Muskegon State Park

Fabulous day at the beach! First public organized shoreline horseback ride, September 2018

Silver Lake State Park Shoreline riding

Dreams do come true!

Fort Custer Recreation Area - so much fun!

Our dog mushing group loves meeting up and exercising our dogs at Fort Custer! The park staff is great, and we like meeting local community members as well. The trail system is fantastic.

Leelanau State Park

We had a great time on the January snowshoe hike around the lighthouse and park.

Hoffmaster State Park

Sunset on the beach at PJ Hoffmaster, late summer 2018.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness Park

The most beautiful place in the UP!! Breathtaking and great falls.

Leelanau State Park

We loved the Fat Tire Bike Event in January on the new trails!

Pinckney Recreation Area

Horseback riding on a winters day

Union Bay Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Went camping for first time. We drove around the Union Bay Campground looking for an available site. Stopped to pay and noticed we were leaving a trail behind us. Upon further inspection discovered one heck of a mess. I spent the next 2 hours cleaning milk off the floor. Sometime in our travel the refrigerator had popped open. A gallon of milk had fallen out of the refrigerator. While driving around the campground the milk had slid next to the door and the milk's cover came off and made one heck of a mess on the floor.

Ludington State Park

My dad carrying my daughter off of the beach at Ludington in 2005. He has since passed away but I cherish this picture and our time at Michigan State Parks. As this picture shows, he was a terrific grandpa!

Rifle River Recreation Area

Nice view of the Milky Way over Grousehaven Lake during our stay at the campground - July 2017

South Higgins Lake State Park (summer boating life)

Bo is Out on the boat during a hot summer day at Higgins Lake

Belle Isle

The photo is of my two brothers and mom at Belle Isle back in 1973. This is at our annual Church Picnic. I'm the little guyðŸ˜. Belle Isle was our family gathering spot for those hot summer days and my year round natural resources classroom. This place is where my natural resources career journey began. Thanks mom for always encouraging me to explore and learn on the island. Also, thank you Ms. Geri Jackson (Detroit Recreation Dept)for helping me land my first summer job on Belle Isle....I would have worked there for free!!!!

Burt Lake State Park

Taken at the beach. Watching the sun sink on the best day until the NEXT one. Great fun canoeing the Stergeon River that day with 26 of our closest friends.

Seven lakes state park

This park is absolutely beautiful I love going all the time in the summer to walk the trails even my 9 year old son loves it as well. The water is so clean and very beautiful. If anyone lived closed I would most definitely recommend this park.

Straits State Park

Beautiful camp site!

Porcupine Mountains State Park

Taking our boys hiking to Lake of the Clouds in 2014 is a memory we'll never forget. The scenery and peacefulness of that hike were breathtaking.

Silver Lake State Park

One of our favorite beaches to visit, and also one of the most beautiful lighthouses, we love Little Point Sauble portion of the Silver Lake State Park. It is out of the hustle and bustle, and absolutely beautiful.

Burt Lake State Park

I have gone camping every year at Burt Lake State since I was 6 months old (1953). I have taken my children and now my grandchildren there every summer. This is a picture of 4 of my grandchildren playing and enjoying there new "beverage stix"

Wilson State Park

Swimming at Wilson St.Park Beach and ice cream from beach store. About 1958.

Port Crescent State Park, beautiful sunset

Our first (but not last) trip to Port Crescent State Park. Our family stayed in the cabin, kids had a great time in the warm August water.

John Young State Park

Beautiful!!!

South Higgins Lake

Summer 2018. However, it looks like a campsite from 50 years ago.

Hoffmaster State Park Beach Baby

Growing up on the shores of Lake Michigan

Lakeport State Park - Sunrise on Lake Huron

We always have a wonderful time with family here!

Warren Dunes State Park Shoreline

This was our first camping experience and one of those crazy warm days on May 5. We are lucky enough to live about 15 miles from here and stayed here for the test run in our brand spanking new camper. It was in the 70s but the water was still way too cold for most...but not my son, who absolutely loves the water. Great memory!!

Belle Isle State Park

Full Moon over Canada

Belle Isle State Park

Stair fountain at sunset on nice summer night

Belle Isle State Park

Fountain at sunset on a nice summer night

Holly State Recreation Area

The 1st camper I owned, she was a goody ðŸ' Holly State Park is awesome ðŸ'•

Harrisville State Park

The best vacation of our 2018 summer at Harrisville State Park. Nothing can beat time floating in the clear water on a sunny day.

Lakeport State Park

A night of family rock hunting on the beach at Lakeport State Park.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park Harvest Festival

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE going camping at Tahquamenon Falls State Park in October for their annual Harvest Festival! Halloween weekend, free pumpkin, campsite decorations, pumpkin carving contest, costume contests, apple cider making, CHILI CONTEST!! and trick-or-treating! Paradise usually has their haunted trail the same weekend.LOTS OF FUN! Haven't missed it in last 15 years.

Straits State Park

We attend the St. Ignace car show every year. This was the first year for both our cars. Love the proximity to town.

Port Crescent State Park

Beautiful sunset, with wonderful friendsðŸ'"

Lakeport State Park and A beautiful August full moon on the beach

A beautiful August night with a full moon. One of my favorite parks and never disappoints.

Young State Park Beautiful Sunsets

We have camped at this park for over 40 years, and it's still our favorite.

Ludington State Park

Nice walk to sable Point from Ludington State Park with Della and Molly.

Dodge Park # 4

Kayaking on Cass Lake. Dodge Park # 4 is our favorite spot for hiking, picnicking, and kayaking. Happy 100 years Michigan State Parks!

John Young State Park

Camping with the cousins!

North Higgins State Park

Owen, Lyle and Bob out for a drive in 1968!

Dodge Park # 4

We’ve had many Birthday parties at Dodge Park over the years. Now we’re wishing our favorite parks a happy 100 years. Grateful for all the memories!

Grand Haven State Park

Kiteboarding in December.

Petoskey State Park

The whole family visiting our favorite place to see a Michigan sunset. For 20 years it has been a tradition to take a photo by this rock at Petoskey State Park. We’ve traveled the world but Michigan is by far the most beautiful place. Happy Birthday State Parks!

Ludington State Park , Hamlin Lake beach area

What a nice state park.

Harrisville State Park. Setting up camp

Setting up the tent for another great camping trip

Tawas Point State Park "exploring the point"

I'm retired now and my wife will be soon. We have time now to explore parks that we have never visited. This is one of our favorite new finds. While our two boys were growing up we spent our weekends camping closer to home. Now we can venture out farther and spend longer periods of time in the woods and water. Our children join us when they can. Our memories are priceless. Happy 100th everyone!

FJ McLain SP, Sunset over Lake Superior

You can't beat a sunset at McLain State Park on a beautiful clear evening in mid-June with clouds on the far horizon and the sun not setting until a few minutes after 10 pm. Just pull up your lawn chair and enjoy. This is one of 25 photos I took that night.

Island Lake Badlands

Mountain biking the Badlands

Harrisville State Park

Sun rise over lake Huron

Lake Port State Park

Halloween Camp 2017

Muskegon State Park

I went camping with my Nanie and Grampie! Muskegon State Park was our favorite. This photo is circa 1973 and it was a late fall trip...

Leelanau State Park. Looking out over the vast blue waters of Lake Michigan.

This campground is a wonderful place, so quiet and peaceful. A quiet walk or bike ride to the waters edge sitting and listening to the beautiful sounds of nature. Although you can't swim there and short trip to Petersen Park or Christmas Cove makes for a cool dip on a hot day along with great rock hunting.

Wilderness State Park

So much experienced in one day! We traveled from Picture Rocks to visit Mackinac Island for the day. After a dozen miles of bike riding, fudge and fun, we headed to our pre-reserved near beach campsite on Lake Michigan at Wilderness Park. What an amazing sunset to top off a day where we saw 3 Great Lakes.

Our camping friends at Young State Park

For more than twenty-five years, we have been camping at Young State Park with family and friends. Great times and lasting memories

Proud Lake Wedding

We got married. Yay!

Holland State Park

Fantastic sun sets and weather while camping at the state park in September of 2015

Port Crescent State Park overlooking beach

Last min Late October weekend trip to Port Crescent but we rented a cabin and there was heat inside. Took a hike around and gazed out into Lake Huron from the beach. Very pretty and meditative place post-labor day season!

Port Crescent State Park

Beautiful hikes and scenery!

Burt Lake State Park

We took our 3 year old son and our dog for their first tent camping trip here. We camped on a site with a water view. We took the boat out on the Intercoastal Water Way and explored the area. It was awesome! !!!

Sterling State Park

I take a picture of this section of beach everytime I go to Sterling State Park. There is something that draws me to this part of the beach. I am calm and relaxed there. The sound of the waves is soothing.

Sterling State Park Harvest/Halloween Weekend

This was me dressed like an old school television set on a table. the program was the Kennedy Nixon debate. We have gone tent camping that weekend for many years. The staff is always friendly, the park clean, and the water is beautiful to see. We take tons of pictures.

Trillium Fest was a big deal each May - PJ Hoffmaster State Park

Years ago when our kids were young, we camped at Hoffmaster on Mother's Day weekend to take advantage of the Trillium Fest. This was back before the deer ate so many of them. We'd always hike from the campground to the Nature Center and watch the spring flowers movie before hiking back. I still remember those camping trips every time I listen to Vivaldi's "The Seasons." My daughter and I went back last year to recreate the experience.

Thompson’s Harbor State Park, Pond in Spring

Ice melts on a pond in Thompson’s Harbor State Park

Thompson’s Harbor State Park, Dwarf Lake Iris

Thompson’s Harbor is home to a large number of the rare dwarf lake iris.

Rockport State Park, Bell Bay Beach

A beautiful early summer day on Bell Bay

Mears State Park

We have taken family vacations here. Love this place so peaceful and relaxing.

Pontiac Lake State Park

Wide Open

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Rugged South Superior Shore

This was a 100 yards or so from my Yurt. The coast matched Superior in its toughness. I had a few awesome nights here.

Tahquamenon Falls - Lower Falls

Walking the falls with my dad, early 1970s

Kitch-Iti-Kipi - Palms Book State Park

After hearing and seeing so many friends talk about Kitch-Iti-Kipi, my mom, daugher, and I took a weekend trip to the UP to see it. My daughter loved "steering" the boat! We all loved it and thought it was as beautiful as we'd heard.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Grand Lake Outlet

In the spring, kayakers put in at the Grand Lake Dam and travel out into Lake Huron via the Grand Lake Outlet.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Spring

Millions of smooth stones can be seen through the crystal clear waters in the bay near the mouth of the Grand Lake Outlet.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Hiking to the Sand Dunes

An easy hike takes you from the trailhead to the larger sand dunes.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Grand Lake Outlet in Winter

A serene winter wonderland

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Grand Lake Outlet in Winter

A winter scene at the Grand Lake Outlet

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Small Dunes, Looking South

These dunes are just a few steps from a parking area at the road.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Sunset at the Small Dunes

An easily accessible beach with sand dunes

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Small Dunes

Smaller, but beautiful and easily accessible sand dunes and a sand beach are located here.

Mitchell State Park

My family has been coming here every summer as long as I can remember. I love that my kids now join us for a week of fun fishing, camping and swimming!

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Sand Dunes

Unique landscape at Thompson's Harbor

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Climbing the Dunes

The dunes along Lake Huron and Lake Michigan are known as "sliding" dunes which slowly consume the forest behind them.

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Old Ranger's Cabin

The ruins of an old ranger's cabin lie along the trail to the sand dunes at Thompson's Harbor State Park

Thompson's Harbor State Park, Sand Dunes

The view from the top of the larger sand dunes at Thompson's Harbor

Thompson Harbor State Park, Sand Dunes

Thompson's Harbor is home to beautiful sand dunes

Thompson Harbor State Park, mouth of Grand Lake Outlet

Smooth stones near the mouth of the Grand Lake Outlet

Thompson Harbor, evidence of lumber activity

Thompson Harbor was a bustling lumber site during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Belle Isle State Park

A January evening on Detroit's Belle Isle State Park looking at downtown

Metamora-hadley campgound

Geese swimming in water with view of beach and dog nearby

Dodge park #4

Daily Therapy

Harbor park in the winter Harrisville State Park

Snowy view of Lake Huron with stairs leading down to beach

Sunset and Fishing Belle Isle State Park

Great day to fish

Belle Isle State Park

Another great sunset from sunset pointe

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Dusk Bass

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Fishing with my niece right before construction started on bridge.

Proud Lake State Recreation Area

Had a bad day and decided to bbq at the dam.

Negwegon State Park

Lake huron on a stormy day

Aloha State Park

Heading down the Cheboygan River from lake Huron to Aloha State Park

Fishermans Island State Park Sunset

The children and I spent four lovely days camping on the beach. Popping into town in the mornings, and swimming our afternoons away. Dinner and breakfast on the beach, everyday.

Brighton State Recreation Area - Windigo Cabin

We always get the cabins every year. Great place for hiking and fishing.

Teenage Grandsons hiking on a sunny day.

We had a grand time hiking the dunes and taking the Mac Woods Dune Ride at Silver Lake Dunes with our grandsons from Texas. They were fun to walk in the pure sand.

Rifle River Recreation Area

Hiking in the park 1 of the largest white pines in the park

Bald Mountain Beach Buildings

Beach Buildings under construction 1968.

Bald Mountain Old School

M-24 entrance booth with employees, sheriffs, and a DNR El Camino.

Aloha State Park

The campground is set on beautiful Mullett Lake. The park was created in 1923 from land that included a small park. Weeds were removed to make a nice beach. Electricity was added to campsites in 1949. Additional property has been purchased over the years to make room for 283 modern camping sites.

Family Fun at Leelanau State Park

I have been bringing my kiddos here for the past few years for the meteors-n-s'mores event in August. We rent the mini cabin which they now refer to as "our little cabin in the woods." We have yet to actually stay up late enough to see the meteor showers, but the kids love the s'mores and love the park and we look forward to going each year.

Interlochen State Park Original Deed

Original deed from the State of Michigan's purchase of the park land in 1917. This marked the first time that land was purchased for the intention of creating a public park in Michigan.

Fall Colors at Tahquamenon Falls State Park

As a Yooper joining the Michigan State University Outdoors Club, I felt it was my duty to share the unparalleled beauty of Autumn in the Upper Peninsula. I took a small group of nine students to Tahquamenon Falls State Park in October of 2018 where we camped under a canopy of red leaves, hiked the river, explored the falls, and made delicious campfire pancakes. Someone in our group even made $20 eating a live earwig. I don't think they thought it was quite as good as the pancakes though.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

This was is a favorite memory of our family (and in one of our favorite state parks). We camped in the Porkies for five days with three families in the summer of 2018. We had a wonderful time exploring the park (mostly on foot). This photo is the first big hike that all 9 kids could do themselves (no carrying included). The highlight of this 5-mile hike was having lunch at this beautiful waterfall. The kids even took a dip in the cold water. If you want to check it out, the hike starts at Government Peak Trail.

Indian Lake State Park

The park is located on the  fourth largest inland lake in the Upper Peninsula! We love to camp here and if you like photography there are so many cool shots waiting for you - like this one of my three kids.

Bond Falls Scenic Site - Historically Beautiful in Black & White

A historic photo of Bond Falls, before there was a parking area and boardwalk, but the view is still very similar today.

Bond Falls Scenic Site - Award Winning Beauty, Unchanged by Time

Even with the addition of accessible amenities such as a parking area, vault toilets, boardwalks and viewing platforms debuting at it's grand opening in 2005, the spectacular view of Bond Falls has not changed much in many decades. It has actually selected as "Best Waterfall" twice by Lake Superior Magazine's readers in their Best of the Lake series, most recently in 2018!  It has also made CNN's "10 of the best waterfalls across the United States".

Agate Falls Scenic Site - Under the Trestles and through the Tunnel to Agate Falls we go!

Agate Falls Scenic Site is unique in that you park at a Michigan Department of Transportation Rest Area, walk through a tunnel under Highway M-28 on a paved path and continue under some railroad trestles before reaching the upper view of the falls. The short journey into the falls is part of the experience.

Baraga State Park - It's Cool at Baraga!

In the U.P., you truly never know what the weather is going to do and in 2014 for the Memorial Day weekend holiday, it was 80 degrees but we had icebergs on Keweenaw Bay!  A "cool" sight on a hot weekend!

Cheboygan State Park: Slept in a Tipi!

Spent a few days after Labor Day exploring Cheboygan State Park, and found they have miles of trails and shoreline to explore, with cabins, yurts, and tipis to spend the night in.  It's a great place to visit.

Clear Lake State Park

Located in Elk Country, Clear Lake State Park is a quiet, secluded retreat offering a sandy beach, disc golf course, ORV trails and access to the High Country Pathway.

Maybury State Park: History

Maybury State Park is named for William H Maybury, a former commissioner on the Detroit Board of Health. He designed and oversaw construction of the Maybury Sanatorium on about 900 acres of open and wooded farmland in Northville. The facility was dedicated to the treatment of patients with tuberculosis and operated from 1921-1969. After closing, the City of Detroit sold the property to the state and after a period of site improvements the park opened in 1975.

Clear Lake State Park - Day Use CCC Camp

Clear Lake State Park's day-use area is part of history. It was the Presque Isle Civilian Conservation Corps Camp during the depression years.

Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park

It is always a lot of fun to see all the different camping options of shelters at the parks. A camper brought their own tepee to sleep in!  

Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park

Found this older picture in the files at the park. The Park Officer is showing a visitor citation.

Leelanau State Park

The view from the campground is spectacular! My favorite place in the world to sit and think about life.

Leelanau State Park

The trails and surrounding acres of land at Leelanau State Park are spectacular and full of history. There used to be a warming house for the crews who cut ice to bring back to town and the world's largest red maple tree was recorded here, although now it is mostly decayed and girdled by porcupines.  

Fort Wilkins State Park

At the 2019 Michigan Cares for Tourism event, I was able to volunteer with my husband for the first time ever. We were married in a state park, so it was great to help preserve the history of a state park. 

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Visiting the area for a Michigan State Waterways Commission meeting in September and a local suggested we hit the Lake of the clouds overlook for sunrise. It. Was. Stunning!!! I will never forget how magical that morning was.

Wm. C. Sterling State Park

As a child my family and I would go for walks on the trails around the marshes. This remains such a special memory of mine; one that has truly sculpted who I am today. 

Interlochen State Park

Our neighbors have been a gift to my son, so it was great to introduce them to my favorite state park! From playing in the water to swooshing through leaves our kids love fall at this park.

Old Mission State Park

My son loves two things...fishing and lighthouses -and this is one of his favorites! Great trails, a hidden beach and the lighthouse complex are all great reasons to visit.

Interlochen State Park

We were walking through the park and found this colorful rock. On the back there was a note and information on how to log into a Facebook page to share where the rock had been found with a photo. Kid fun!

Yankee Springs Horsemans Camp

The Walker family grew up at YS horsemans camp

Yankee Springs Horsemans Camp

Pony rides at harvest fest

Yankee Springs Horsemans Camp

Annual New Years Day Ride

Ionia State Recreation Area

Forbidden Trail Ride

Yankee Springs Recreation Area

Grew up coming out to Gun Lake campground with a group of people. I have a lot of memories associated with the park and can't wait to create new ones with my young son. 

Muskegon State Park

Sunsets at Muskegon State Park are not to be missed!  A perfect ending to a perfect day...

Tahquameonon Falls State Park Trip with Gram and Papa

My Gram and Papa loved to travel. Often, they took my sister, Fawn and I along on their Michigan adventures. We visited a lot of state parks like Silver Lake, Palms Book, Tahquamenon Falls and more! Here we are at the falls...circa 1985 (ish). 

Warren Dunes State Park

Chicago Skyline

Maybury State Park

One of the few locations in southeastern Michigan that has groomed cross country ski trails.  When the snow is great, the park has dozens of Nordic ski enthusiasts enjoying the trails. 

Yankee Springs - History

Established in 1836, the village of Yankee Springs was made famous by Yankee Bill Lewis who owned and operated a hotel along the stagecoach run from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids. The Yankee Springs Inn flourished in the 1830s and 1840s and began it's decline when the railroad routed travelers through a different stop. Yankee Bill was elected into the Michigan Legislature in 1846, representing Allegan and Barry counties. 

Grand Haven State Park - Great year round!

Most people think of GD Haven S.P. as a Summer destination. Beautiful beach, hot sun and jumping off the pier into Lake Michigan. I like it best in Winter. Very few hardy souls get to see it then. Huge Winter waves, ice volcanoes, pancake ice, migrating waterfowl. Been there hundreds of times. Always amazing in some way. (catwalk coming back in 2019.)

Otsego Lake State Park

On a very rare 80-degree day in March 2012, we got to experience our first beach day of the season at Otsego Lake State Park. Sunshine, beach chairs, good friends and solid ice still on the lake made for one of our most memorable beach days ever!  

Otsego Lake State Park

A historic meeting that impacted the world. 

Bewabic State Park 

The day use parking lot at Bewabic State Park was built on two levels purposefully so that park visitors could sit in their cars and listen to music! You can see the bandstand that was built by the CWA in 1934 in the center of the photo at the edge of Fortune Lake. The grassy slope and surrounding terrain formed a natural amphitheater which was perfect for musical entertainment.

Ludington State Park

I'll never forget the 1st time I got to go up in the tower of the Big Sable Pt. Lighthouse @ Ludington SP. It was in the late 1980's when the water levels of the Great Lks were extremely high. The Winter before the lake had destroyed some of the out buildings and there was some question if the light tower was going to be taken as well. It survived and I've been up there many times since then. It's always worth the hike!

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park

Hoffmaster State Park encompasses 1200 acres, including 3 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and represents one of the finest examples of high relief, parabolic dunes and forested backdunes on the Great Lakes. Opportunities to explore the park are available during all four seasons.

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park

Founded in the 1960’s, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park was created in honor of Percy James Hoffmaster, the longest acting Director of Conservation and the first chief of state parks in Michigan.

Bass River Recreation Area

Once destined to become a landfill, Bass River Recreation Area consists of open meadows, open brush land, mature hardwoods, small ponds and 300-acre Max Lake. It has approximately three miles of frontage on the Grand River. The park is used primarily for boating, hiking, mountain biking and horse back riding (on designated trails) as well as hunting.

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park

During the early 1920s, Emma Genevieve Gillette developed a close friendship with P.J. Hoffmaster, superintendent of state parks (1922-1934) and later director of the Department of Conservation (1934-1951), now Department of Natural Resources. Hoffmaster enlisted Gillette in scouting the state for areas of land having state park potential, an assignment which the nature lover took as her life's work. Beginning in 1924, she helped locate and raise public support and funding for state parks at Ludington, Hartwick Pines, Wilderness, Porcupine Mountains, and what was to become the P.J. Hoffmaster State Park as well as Kensington Metropark and the national lakeshores at Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pictured Rocks. In 1976, as she looked on, Governor Milliken dedicated the E. Genevieve Gillette Nature Center in P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, as a lasting tribute to her countless volunteer efforts on behalf of the citizens of Michigan.

Bewabic State Park- Crisp Fall Morning

There is nothing better than a crisp Fall morning walk along Fortune Lake. When I observe the changing trees, I like to thank Herbert F. Larson for caring for them as much as I do. The Iron County Road Commission manager and engineer recognized the importance of protecting our natural resources- particularly virgin timber and natural scenic areas. He was the first person to establish a roadside park in the U.S, which subsequently led him to purchase part of (what is now Bewabic State Park) in 1923 in order to save the stands of virgin timber for future generations to enjoy. 

Holland State Park, Busy from the begining.

Holland State Park was opened in 1928 on the land where one of the most visited lake-side hotels once stood.  When the Historic Ottawa Beach Hotel burned down the State was urged to buy the property and in 1925 they did.  It is now the site of one of the busiest State Parks in the system. Type the link below into your browser to learn more about the beach and surrounding historic area. 

Leelanau State Park

There is a great hike through Leelanau State Park to reach Cathead Bay!  It is a perfect place for a swim and to look for Petoskey stones.

Leelanau State Park

The Grand Traverse Lighthouse has a great museum to visit. I love this lighthouse!

Tawas Point State Park, Haunted Lighthouse Weekend

Haunted Lighthouse Weekend at Tawas Point is always one of the highlights of the year. The staff and Friends Group always do a great job providing a fun and safe Halloween experience for the whole family.  

Keith J. Charters/Traverse City State Park

We love Harvest Festival! This is a picture of only about 1/4th of the people dressed in costumes who entered the costume judging contest in 2018.

Keith J. Charters/Traverse City State Park

The sunrises at the park are magnificent!

Leelanau State Park

There are three sets of stairs that are still being used in the park. They were built in the 1930's by the WPA.

Leelanau State Park

Hiking on the trail.  It is a sport for all ages!

Sleepy Hollow State Park

Plans for  Sleepy Hollow State Park began over a decade before it  was developed and opened!

Metamora-Hadley First Mini-cabin in the State

1991 news article about the first mini-cabin in the state opening at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area

Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area, Remember the days?

Old photos of camping at Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area 1960'-1970's

Ortonville Recreation Area: Department of Conservation Brochure

Undated pre 1964 brochure for Ortonville Recreation Area with Metamora-Hadley as a satellite park.

Ludington State Park, "Queen of the State Parks!"

As Park Interpreter for 20+ years I continue to love the natural and cultural history this Park offers everyone!  It's a place of never ending nature happenings and historic discoveries. It is a book that is always being added to and every visitor can experience and add to it. I am the luckiest person to have had the chance to work here year-round for over 20 years!  "Someone has to do it and I accept the job!"

So Mears State Park, aka Pentwater State Park, is small in size, but large in memories. One of the iconic features is "old baldy" an elevated dune that serves as part of the trail system and scenic overlook of both the campground and the channel leading into Lake Michigan. It's a great locals vista to catch the fireworks (shhh, don't tell anyone!) and offers that million dollar view for all to enjoy. Our family has been visiting the Pentwater area continually for a few years now and we're happy to call it our home away from home. 

Ludington State Park, "In the Beginning..."

In 1926, the citizens of Ludington and Mason County donated over 1,000 acres of dune land to State of Michigan for future State Park.  In 1933 works starts on building a State Park by the Federal Government's Civilian Conservation Corp. (Great Depression Era)  1936 State of Michigan opens and names this park "Ludington State Park" in honor of the local citizens.  P.J. Hoffmaster, Director of Department of Conservation, gives the park its name.  The C.C. Corp continues building the Park until W.W.II breaks out in 1942.

Waterloo Recreation Area, Past Park Interpreter 1988 - 1992

My first Park Interpreter assignment at the Eddy Geology Center in Waterloo Recreation Area. From 1988 to 1992 I was year-round employee operating the Gerald E. Eddy Geology Visitor Center, head of all trail maintenance and signage for all of the Park, and producing/presenting all the educational programming within the Park. As a younger person it was exciting but also scary not having a lot of experience nor a park mentor to draw experience from. It was and is a beautiful southeastern Michigan State Park! The photo is a shot of Mill Lake from the bluff where the Eddy Visitor Center sits today. One of the very few lakes in this part of Michigan not urbanized.

P. J. Hoffmaster State Park, Co-Park Interpreter 1994 - 1998

In 1994 I left Waterloo Recreation Area for P.J. Hoffmaster State Park to be a co-Park Interpreter. The 4 years I served at Hoffmaster were very enjoyable and loved the mentoring I got from staff and volunteers. Aside from the layout which has a disconnect from the day use and camping areas the Park is a beautiful natural dune preserve.  I miss the variety of vegetation like spring wildflowers blooming each year. Trilliums were and still are my favorite that introduced springtime with beautiful showy white flowers. Being so close to large urban areas the beaches were never super crowded like beaches in nearby communities of Grand Haven and Muskegon. It had that natural relaxing feeling. The history of Hoffmaster State Park is really amazing and unfortunately the local people that shared this history with me are mostly gone now with very little historic signage for visitors to view when visiting.  

The Ludington State Park's Lake Michigan Beach House is a historic structure built in the mid-1930 during the Great Depression by the men of the Civilian Conservation Corp, Camp Ludington - Pere Marquette. In 2014 it was restored back to its original look and function. It has an open layout plan on the upper level which contains a beautiful stone fireplace, lounging / picnic area, and natural / historic exhibits. The lower level houses a beach store and restrooms. The upper and lower verandas are popular with park visitors watching over the golden sandy shoreline, Lake Michigan's vast endless sea of water, and glowing sunsets!

Pinckney Recreation Area, Silver Lake beach and picnic area

Photo taken from an airplane in the summer of 2018

KJC/Traverse City State Park

Sunrises at the park can be magnificent!  I love the peaceful mornings at the park.

Fayette Historic State Park

I was so pleased to discover this little friend carved into a stump in the campground. He kept me company the entire weekend I was there. I love how the campsites are nestled in among the cedar grove. It was is so beautiful and peaceful!

Petoskey State Park

One of my favorite state park memories is fossil hunting on the beach at the state park. I spent hours in the cool bay, sifting through the rocky shoreline to find some pretty rocks. I did find a couple of small Petoskey stones, but I love all the fossils!  And I left behind all but these four for other treasure hunters! 

Pinckney Recreation Area 1980 park brochure

In 1980 the Pinckney Rec Area totaled approximately 9800 acres. Today, it is well over 11,000 acres of park land making it the fourth largest State Park by acreage.  Located only one hour from metro Detroit and 20 minutes from Ann Arbor, the park provides a large land base for a variety of recreational pursuits.

Pinckney Recreation Area

Mid 1960's picture of Silver Lake Beach with the old concession building in the background. Evidently, the beach was as popular then as it is now!

Pinckney Recreation Area

Memorial Day 1965 picture of the Crooked Lake Campground. Juniper was the common tree due to the fact that formerly, most of this property was pasture and the animals found the tree undesirable to eat.

Pinckney Recreation Area, Glenbrook Yurt

Michigan State Parks first Yurt was installed overlooking Halfmoon Lake in 2006. It remains as the most popular lodging option at Pinckney with approximately 220 camp nights reserved annually.  Located just off the Potawatomi Trail System and the Halfmoon chain of lakes, this yurt affords you the option to hike, bike, paddle or drive your car to this comfortable destination.

Muskegon State Park- Locking up for the Night! 

The Summer or 1999 proved to be an exciting yet scary one, as an Summer Worker one of the responsibilities we had was to lock of the old iconic Blockhouse, located on top of the South Scenic Drive. That Summer the Blair Witch Project movie came out and all the staff went and saw it. Well needless to say, the next night was my turn along with a friend to close the Blockhouse after dark. Nervously, my friend and I ascended the Block house hill with key and flash light in hand. As usual, there weren't any signs of life and any noises coming from the old structure. We climbed the stairs as procedure, to check to see if anyone was inside before locking. We announced ourselves a few times, "Park Ranger, locking up." Still no sound. We made it to the top of the stairs and flashed our lights, right into the face of a couple star gazing... ... It freaked us out! How my friend and I didn't scream in terror and run out of the building was beyond me.  We informed the guests that we were closing up and waited outside for them to leave. The guests left shortly there after. We locked up the building a ran back to the truck!  I'm proud to say I still work for the department and never gave up working for PRD, even though the Blair Witch was waiting for us in the Blockhouse that night!

Ludington State Park- The Proposal! 

It's been almost 15 years ago now, but the Lighthouse of Ludington State Park has a very special place in my heart. That September, I was prepared to propose to my wife.  I made preparations the week before to have the light house keepers prep the light house right around sunset to have the tower ready for me to ""pop the question.""  
The night before, I prepped the staff that around dinner time I would come to the park with my wife to be, and her son.  The Lighthouse folks were ready to watch my step son, who was 2 at the time, while I proposed up in the tower.  I had also prepared a large, ""Will You Marry Me,"" in the sand right below the tower for her to see.   
All was set, however, for all those who are married and for all those that have tried to pull off the ""MOST AMAZING PROPOSAL OF ALL TIME,"" things didn't go according to plan.

Instead of my wife showing up just before supper time as planned, she showed up at Lunch (I think she knew, something was going to happen ; )   

To make it a little more challenging, our step son wasn't feeling good and had a nagging cold.  

So what would I do... 
... I tried to stall, that didn't work... we made our way to the park and I stopped by the office to 'check on some information.'  I called the light house keepers to inform them I'm 5 hours early!!!  They were so gracious, they rewrote the Will you Marry Me and took care of our step son, while I popped the question!  

It was awesome & yes, she said YES!  What a day! "

Muskegon State Park- Park Ranger, Jack of All Trades, Master of None

One of the best parts of being a Park Ranger is all the variety of tasks we get to complete, one of the biggest challenges as a Park Ranger is all the variety of tasks we get to complete;)

In the late Fall and early Winter of 2011, my friend and I were tasks with building and setting up a Yurt.  The park had purchased the Yurt a season or so ago and it was time to build it. We both had experience with minor construction, codes and permitting before, but never an installation of a Yurt.  

Site selection was completed, along with permitting and we started to build the deck.  The Yurt is roughly 20 feet diameter structure and needs a sturdy structure. We talked to other parks that had Yurts and did some online research to make sure we had all our ducks in a row.

We started the footings and frame work on the deck and just as the snow started to fly we completed the majority of the work.

In Spring we finished the decking and put together 80% of the hand railing.

NOW THE FUN PART, building the Yurt!!!

We eagerly, moved the majority of the Yurt supplies to the deck area and began to unwrap the manufactures instructions...
... AND THERE IT WAS... STEP ONE, BUILD A ROUND DECK!@!#!@# 

Oh, what fun, the deck stayed square and hundreds of people have enjoyed the location, but every time we would go to clean it, we would remember... 
... STEP ONE!!! "

Pinckney Recreation Area, Bruin Lake CG 

Letter from the park manager in 1965 regarding the 20,000th camper and the overall history of camping at the Pinckney Recreation Area.

Grand Haven State Park- Meet my wife! 

So, it was frowned on and definitely not encouraged but from time to time fellow employees at the State Parks fall in love! That's what happened the Summer of 2003. I had recently transferred from Van Buren State Park up to Grand Haven State Park to work with a few ranger friends and love struck!

I was a Park Officer at the time and a late hire around June came aboard, who I thought was pretty cute.  I came up with a couple lame accuses to hang out...  ""We should get everyone from the park staff together and hang out some time..."" Even though we worked different shifts??!?!!?   Real smooth, dude.
I came up with a few other one liners but nothing really stuck.

I went on a small vacation with another friend to the U.P. and had some guy talks over the campfire.  He told me, 'just ask her out!'

So I got back from vacation and the next day during my shift I road up the contact station and asked her out to coffee.  She said YES!  I continued on my patrol that afternoon feeling ten foot tale.

That Yes, turned into a YES a few months later that turned into a forever vow!

Thanks Grand Haven State Park, you helped me meet my forever gal!  "

KJC Traverse City State Park

The cottage is a great place to rent with family.  It has 3 bedrooms, two baths and plenty of space to hang out.  Many people rent the cottage year after year.

Leelanau State Park

Hey! Can someone help me down? Never mind, I love the views from this tree!

KJC Traverse City State Park

Sunrises are the best on East Grand Traverse Bay!

Leelanau State Park

The Grand Traverse Lighthouse was lit up blue for Autism Awareness in April.

Hartwick Pines State Park Memorial Building

The Memorial Building is the original Visitor Center at Hartwick Pines State Park. When Karen Hartwick donated the land for the park in 1927 she put in the deed that such a building must be constructed. The building and park are dedicated to the memory of Karen's husband, Edward Hartwick. Edward died of cerbro-spinal meningitis in 1918, while serving in France during WWI.

Closed since the new Visitor Center was completed in 1995, the Memorial Building has just undergone a thorough cleaning. It will be open for guided tours in spring 2019!

Help the Friends of Hartwick Pines State Park fundraise for the complete renovation of the Memorial Building by purchasing a t-shirt or coffee mug. Visit the gift shop inside the Hartwick Pines Visitor Center to purchase.

Ortonville Recreation Area: Hadley Hills History

Interesting early history of the Hadley Hills up to becoming part of Ortonville Recreation Area

Hartwick Pines State Park The Monarch Has Fallen

Generations of visitors remember wrapping their arms around the Monarch. The Monarch was one of the largest trees in Hartwick Pines' old growth forest. In 1992 the top of this massive tree blew off in a wind storm. Decades of guests walking around the tree to hug it had the unfortunate effect of crushing the soil and root system. In 1996, the weakened tree was officially declared dead.

Today, the Monarch is a 60 foot tall stump. It is marked on the Old Growth Trail and thousands of visitors continue to visit it every summer.

Duck Lake State Park- Dune Jumping!!

For a small park Duck Lk has it all. This has always been our families favorite when we have young kids visiting. The short distance between Lk Michigan & Duck Lk makes it easy to enjoy both. I really like the fact that one side of the lake is developed and theNorth side is all natural. No development . I often think that if this had been mandated by the State early on all our lakes ( they belong to the people of MI) would be so much more enjoyable. Imagine Torch Lake with no homes on one whole side.

Grand Haven State Park 

I have worked at Grand Haven for some time now. As a state worker days can get long, the heat wears you down and so do all the guests, on days like that you have to rely on your coworkers to help get through the long days.  There was on day when it had just stopped raining and he decided to take the golf cart and go through a huge puddle, we got soaked from head to toe. We had a really good laugh after I got over the initial irritation of being soaking wet. I am so thankful for the people I have got to work with and get to know along the way of my state park carrer. 

Duck Lake State Park

Duck Lake State Park is the perfect place for kids of all ages. Many generations of families have been enjoying the park since its opening in 1988. Previously the park was a boy scout camp from the late 1920's to 1960's and President Gerald R. Ford was a camp counselor there. If you take a hike along the shoreline of Duck Lake you can still see the remnants of the old boy scout building foundations and there is also a small monument dedicated to President Ford. The park features over 700 acres of land including hiking trails, dunes, woods, beautiful pine plantations from the CCC and a small inland lake which has a channel that runs into Lake Michigan. Families with small children enjoy swimming in the calm shallow channel and warm inland Duck Lake. One of my earliest memories is swimming in the channel with my older brother and chasing minnows when I was very small. My mother tells me she sailed on Duck Lake with my Grandpa and her siblings when they were very young. 

Sleepy Hollow State Park

One of the many things I have loved about this park is being able to teach youth of varying ages the sport of archery.

Sleepy Hollow State Park

Some of the best sunsets around!

Chalres Mears State Park - Sand Sculpting

For each visitor Charles Mears State Park holds unique memories but for me many of them focus around sunsets and sandcastles. These experiences, passed from generation to generation, remind us to enjoy the little things in life. State Parks are as timeless as these time honored experiences.

Twin Lakes State Park - When Camping Was Free - circa 1930s

Back before it became a state park, Twin Lakes Park was owned and run by the county. This is the old sign that used to be posted at the park back in the 1930s. Twin Lakes did not become a state park until 1964. 

Twin Lakes Park Swim Dock - Circa1930s

Back in the 1930s when Twin Lakes Park was run by the county, a swim dock was built at the park. The dock was present at the park and used regularly by park visitors until the 1970s when it was removed. The locals of the area built a diving platform for their own personal use, as depicted in the photo just beyond the dock. the platform stood approximately 20 feet off the water. The kids in the area would come to swim and dive off the platform. Some even recall how they would stand on the railing at the top to add height to their jump! Twin Lakes no longer has a swim dock or pier at the park, but the boat launch does have a skid pier. 

Leelanau State Park

We love camping at Leelanau State Park!  It is our happy place!

Leelanau State Park

Thank you to the park for allowing us to come out and enjoy a morning on the trails to do a 5k.  We are the Northport Elementary School.  It was a blast!

Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park

Caught the 2017 solar eclipse at this beautiful historic state park along the Cass River. 

Port Crescent State Park

Breathtaking sunset from the beach at Port Crescent State Park campground.

Lakeport State Park

Found my first Petoskey stone!!

Ludington State Park Sunset

Camped here with Friends in Dave's RVs! 

Hartwick Pines State Park

Got Married June 30th in the chapel, had reception in the picnic shelter. Was a beautiful day!!

Union Bay Campground - Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Beautiful sites right on Lake Superior.

Aloha State Park

My Great Grandparents Thomas and Louise Ballard were the first caretakers of Aloha State Park and we hold a Bi-annual family reunion there.

Fayette state park - deer in the apple trees

We visited in October. The park was virtually empty except for a few deer eating apples. They weren’t afraid of us at all and stood quietly while we watched them. A beautiful rainy day at spooky Fayette. 

Holland State Park, View of Big Red from atop Mt. Pisgah

Mid-October camping weekend with friends at our favorite, Holland State Park. It was chilly but invigorating, as we hiked up Mt. Pisgah & enjoyed the trails up there. We also dressed in layers to ride our bikes and walk on the beach. Campfires were particularly enjoyable in the colder weather, and the warm sunshine was much appreciated! 

Brighton State Recreation Area, Little Appleton Lake

Absolutely gorgeous. A pristine lake tucked away in variety of rich browns and deep greens. I would like to come back just to this spot and sit all day enjoying the view. This park is truly a gem.

St Ignace at Lake Michigan morning

A lovely stay in late August. Our own private beach in the beautiful Upper Peninsula.

Algonac State Park

One of the best spots in Michigan to view Great Lake Freighter's and other large ships.

Algonac State Park

A scenic aerial view of the Wagonwheel Campground.

Sterling State Park at sunset

Taken from our favorite campsite, lot 26 as the setting sun reflected on the clouds. 

Sterling state park

Last day open for camping 2018. Site 25. Beautiful place to spend with the family

Leelenau State Park

August 10th 2017... campsite #29 was the BEST lakefront site I’ve ever camped at! Great view, bald eagle hanging out and it was so quiet and beautiful, loved it sooo much. We will be returning to this site yearly to continue making memories.

Hartwick Pines State Park Family Vacation Starts NOW!

Wonderful memories of the original campground camping under the old pines. Year after year running into the same families in August. What a park!

Albert Sleeper State Park

Best sunsets and beaches in Caseville Michigan

Port Cresent State Park

Camper cabin at Port Cresent truly is paradise!!

Mitchell State Park

Meet Earl the Squirrel! He hung out at our campsite all weekend. Little did we know, he loved scones just as much us. We got tired of him getting into our scones so when we left the campsite we would leave one out for him, so he wouldn't get into ours. At the end of our trip we left him what was left. As you can see he didn't wait for us to leave before he came to get his goodies!

Lakeport State park

Favorite staycation spot!!!!!

Tawas Point State Park

Sunrise on the beach

Tawas Point State Park

Made it to the tip!

Ludington State Park

Sunset over Lake Michigan (having seen the sun rise over Lake Huron earlier that day)

Porcupine Mountains State Park

Our BSA Venture Crew spent a week backpacking around the Porkies. On the way to Mirror Lake, someone else hitched a ride ;)

Walter Hayes State Park

Small state park, but unbeatable sunrises over Wampler’s Lake! Great way to spend Memorial Day weekend.

Seven Lakes State Park

Got an excellent view of Seven Lakes State Park on a hot air balloon ride! Once-in-lifetime experience for my mom and I as a celebration for my college graduation.

Island Lake State Recreation Area

Beautiful place for an overnight backpacking trip in preparation for a week-long trek in Isle Royale National Park! This was our reward for a long day of hiking.

Seven Lakes State Park - Hooked on Scouting

Seven Lakes State Park has been the location of many scout outings over the years.  For many scouts it was their first experience camping.  We enjoyed hiking, fishing, swimming, playing bucket ball, making can ice cream and telling ghost stories around the campfire.  A beautiful camp close to home.

Holly Recreation Area - Organization Campground

Holly Recreation Area Organization campground holds years of scout memories as a local "first time camping" location. Scouts learned to set up tents, cook and build campfires. Hiking the many beautiful trails in the area, fishing, climbing trees and a surprise visit by the LLama club through our campsite are some of our fondest memories. It's great to have a rustic campsite so close to home.

Hartwick Pines 

Hartwick Pines was our base camp for canoeing the Au Sable River. When not on the river our scouts learned the history of lumbering at Lumberman's Monument.

Hartwick Pines State Park

Wendel Hoover's evening programs in the 70's. Mr Hoover would walk the 47 sites personally inviting you to his evening outdoor talk about the park. The smell of his pipe and the great presentations will never be forgotten by the Toledo Ohio families that made Hartwick Pines our home.

Muskallonge Lake State Park

Playground and beach access to Muskallonge Lake from the campground

Whitefish Bay Happy Hour!

My husband and I camped at Brimley for the first time! Our site was small but very close to the water. We sat on the beach and watched the freighters! It was wonderful!

Aloha State Park

Born and raised in Michigan, we are now long time residents of the Aloha State! We stayed at 6 Michigan State Parks this summer and Aloha State Park was a favorite!  Our site was near the water! Aloha until next time, Michigan State Parks!  

Petoskey State Park

We come to Michigan every summer and Petoskey has been a family favorite for years! The park is beautifully maintained and is very peaceful! Little Traverse Bay is a short walk from any campsite! Looking forward to next summer!!  

Tahquameonon Falls State Park

In early May (the  6th) 1972 my wife and I were on our honeymoon. We had the bright idea that we would camp one of the nights at the lower falls campground. Well, we had a tent, camp stove, and sleeping bags along with some borrowed camping utensils all in the trunk of our 66 Ford Galaxy. We probably should have realized we were making a mistake when we drove in and we were the only one's there with a tent. Also that year there was snow on the ground that we had to scrape out of the way in order to set up the tent, we also should have re-thought the idea when we were driving in and saw a black bear walking along the edge of the campground. Anyway we stayed somewhat barely warm that night. (it was our honeymoon after all)

That was the only night spent camping on our honeymoon. The rest of the nights were spent in warm heated Motel rooms on our trip to Niagara Falls. So we have enjoyed coming back to the campground, and the upper and lower falls many times in the autumn over the years to see the beauty of this area, and reminisce of our first camping adventure.

Porcupine Mountains State park

Gisele and Joe at one of their U.P. fav"s

Porcupine Mountains State park

Gisele and Joe on the walk way to Lake In The Clouds

Bond Falls

Gisele and Joe hangin out at Bond Falls

Silver Lake State Park 

An excellent opportunity for equestrians at Silver Lake State Park. We rode our horses across the ORV dunes (after ORV season) and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.  We hope more opportunities will be granted and organized. Thank you State Parks and DNR!!  What a perfect way to celebrate your 100th, with horses, just like 100 years ago :)

Muskegon State Park A splashing good time!  Watch us go!!

Riding our horses along the Lake Michigan shoreline is a dream of many equestrians and tourists alike.  Thank you State of Michigan DNR for making dreams come true. Happy 100!!

Mitchell State Park

Spent the weekend in this beautiful park nestled between 2 lakes with completely different views. They're connected by a channel with boat stalls and sidewalks that take you from one end to the next. A modern bathhouse with hot showers was within a short walk (5 campsites) from our large corner lot. We were in town for a wedding and loved the idea of coming back to a campfire each night rather than staying in a local hotel. Will definitely be back soon!

Silver Lake State Park  Living the dream

A fantastic opportunity granted by the State of Michigan DNR made dreams come true for many people and smiles all day long.  Thank you!  Happy 100th!!  Let’s ride again!!

Muskegon State Park. A walk in the Park

Dreams came true for 69 riders at Muskegon State Park. Memories made in Muskegon. Watch us go!   Happy 100th!  Let’s celebrate like it’s 1919, horseback style.

Muskegon State Park. My happy place

Riding horses along the shoreline was common practice 100 years ago. Let’s bring back these opportunities and adventures. Happy 100th, Ride on!
Happy 100th!! Hoping for many more years of equestrian enjoyment. Thank you State of Michigan DNR. Share the joy

Muskegon State Park Give your Best every day!

Thank you State of Michigan DNR for providing excellent recreational opportunities along the shoreline just as they were experienced 100 years ago, still enjoying them today.

Rifle River State Recreation Area

The tower at Rifle River Rec Area, always a must climb with our kids Memorial Day weekend.  What a great park, and base camp for Morel Mushroom hunting.

Grand Mere State Park   The Reward for Making The Climb

As a child, a trip to a state park was a favorite experience for our entire family. Camping as a family, church camp outs or a day at Lake Michigan are memories that fill my childhood. There of been stretches of years, as an adult, where I did not make efforts or create opportunities to visit Michigan’s state parks.  Beautiful wooded areas, great land and lakes all around the state are amazing spaces to experience life. For me, there is no other way to describe the sandy dunes along Lake Michigan and the cool waves of that beautiful blue water than to say the word “home”.  In 2017, a year after my husband abandoned me and our marriage and six months after my father passed away, it restored my broken heart.  I choose to visit Grand Mere, a state park I had never been at before, to take my 48 year old, extremely overweight and hurting self to see “home”. Climbing the dunes on that trail took all I had. I was alone, yet determined. When I got to this spot and saw “home”, tears welled up and I felt the healing begin.  The time spent at that small Michigan state park that day was “The Reward for The Climb” and I am forever better for it. 

Muskegon State Park

Muskegon State Park, my happiest place since I was little, even better now that my kids say this is *their* favorite place too!

Orchard Beach State Park

Beautiful overlook of Michigan. 

Twin Lakes Park Store - Today's known as the Enclosed Shelter

Believe it or not, Twin Lakes State Park used to have a convenience store - and it was located in what is today known as the Twin Lakes Enclosed Shelter. This old picture shows price signs for some of the goods the store sold. In the lower left corner you will find a sign for boat rental ""Boats for Rent $0.25"". In the lower right corner of the photo you will find a price list ""Ice Cream, Candy, Tobacco, Can Goods, Hotdog $0.10, Hamburger $0.10, Coffee $0.05, Tea $0.05, Pop $0.05, Malted Milk $0.15, Milk $0.05. How much would these items costs at your local store or drive-in today? 

The Twin Lakes Park store is no longer open but the building still stands and is rented out to the general public for events and gatherings. In June and September it also serves as the event gathering place for the Annual Sport Ride and the Senior Ride which are both hosted by MiTRALE. Krupp's Mini Mart down the street is now one of only two stores found in Twin Lakes, MI. Krupp's Mini Mart has also been an avid supporter of the Senior Ride since the ride began, donating over a hundred pasties each year to the riders.

Aloha state park

Close to the Mackinac bridge walk, great swimming, hiking.  Loved it.  Would return*****

Fort Custer Recreation Area

Fort Custer Recreation Area was developed on land that was once used by the Department of Defense as an induction center for World Wars I and II and the Korean War; a hospital for returning wounded soldiers and a German POW camp. We now offer many forms of outdoor recreation, including cabin rentals, camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and hunting.  Our campground offers an 'Up-North' feel downstate with most campsites separated from each other.  Pictured is our Riverside Family Cabin, located along the Kalamazoo River, which sleeps 6 people.  It is heated and is very popular with both families and hunting groups.

Island Lake Governor Groesbeck

Governor Alex Groesbeck inspects Island Lake in 1922.

South Higgins Lake

Ahoy there Mateys . Princess the GSD on board at the south shore

South Higgins Lake State Park

Kathleen enjoying the crystal clean waters of Higgins lake on the Sea Ray boat.

South Higgins Lake State Park

The Wrona Family cooking up a camp meal.

Highland State Recreation Area: Haven Hill Carriage House

Highland State Rec Area is beautiful in all seasons! This is the original Carriage House at the top of Haven Hill. It is the last remaining vestige of the once great Haven Hill Lodge complex, the quiet retreat of Edsel and Eleanor Ford. The Friends of Highland Recreation Area are working to bring this building back to life for many future generations to enjoy! For more info, visit fohravolunteers.org.

Hartwick Pines State Park

Gloria Lake in October.

Highland State Recreation Area: History and Nature Together!

In 2005 when my wife Eva and I first moved to White Lake, Michigan and quickly discovered Highland State Recreation Area and its Haven Hill history. We immediately fell in love with the natural beauty of the park and the history of prior ownership of much of the land by Edsel and Eleanor Ford and their family. The iconic Edsel Ford Barn, which was eventually damaged in a severe storm, stood large and back in 2008 and was a focal point for the earliest days of the Park's all-volunteer Friends of Highland Recreation Area support group.

Highland State Recreation Area: Explore the Trails!

The trails at Highland State Recreation Area offer something for everyone. Choose from the crushed gravel Cedar Creek Trail, the technical mountain bike trails, or miles of single track and horse trails! This foggy, fall day from 2016 was one of the most beautiful, peaceful days I've ever experienced in the State Natural Area portion of the park, located just west of the main park road.

K8VOX & W8TAM at Rockport SRA

A unique discovery in the MI State Park system was Rockport! We are amateur radio operators and are participating in Michigan State Parks on the Air - with a goal of operating our portable radio station at everypark in the state!

Craig Lake State Park

Craig Lake State Park is a great place for a family fall hike!

Van Riper State Park overlook trail view of Lake Michigamme

The overlook trail at Van Riper State Park is a bit challenging in elevation however once you reach the peak the view is well worth the hike.

Van Riper State Park History

Did you know that Van Riper State Park was named after Dr. Paul Van Riper, MD, the local town doctor?

Van Riper State Park Moose

Van Riper is a great starting off point to find the elusive Michigan moose. www.michigan.gov/moose

Wilderness State Park

Brought my kiddos here to camp for Labor Day weekend. We loved being right on the lake with a pet friendly beach! This was a great home base for going to Mackinac Island, and the campground hosts were fantastic.

Proud Lake Recreation Area - My First Year

I started my DNR (then Conservation Dept.) career as a seasonal park ranger at Proud Lake Recreation Area at the Dodge 5 Unit in 1963.  I spent about 25 of the 35 years on the DNR with the Parks system and ended up as the Administrative Officer for the Division when they consolidated with Recreation Division. Here is an early photo a camper took of me at the Dodge 5 unit in Commerce MI in 1963.

Bald Mountain Day Use Road and Booth

Main park road and entrance booth in 1969 as it entered final phase of construction.

Bald Mountain Old Campground

Old Campground at Bald Mountain located at what is now the Cherry Ridge Picnic Site. In the background you can see the start of the Trout Lake beach complex.

Bald Mountain Construction

2 articles from July 1969 regarding the construction of the beach and day use areas of Bald Mountain, as well as upgrades to many other local state parks.

Warren dunes state park

Photo donated by park patron of coyote puppies. From the ranger archives.