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Rockport Recreation Area

kids kneeling by stream surrounded by rocks

Rockport Recreation Area

Plan development process

The DNR is in the process of developing a new general management plan for Rockport Recreation Area, located near Alpena in northeast Lower Michigan. The process typically takes one year to complete.

The new general management plan will replace the 2008 Phase 1 and 2010 Phase 2 general management plans, which were part of a regional strategy that included Negwegon and Thompson’s Harbor state parks. This initial effort established Rockport as the central "hub," allowing it to accommodate greater development and visitation while keeping the other two parks in a relatively natural state. This approach stemmed from the 2007 Northeast Michigan Integrated Assessment, which aimed to create a sustainable future through tourism and economic development. The new plan will be informed by the recommendations in the 2024 development plan and the additional community input gathered throughout that process.

A park's general management plan defines a long-range (10- to 20-year) planning and management strategy to protect and preserve the site’s natural and cultural resources and provide access to land- and water-based public recreation and educational opportunities.

Public input opportunities

Visitors, community members, stakeholders and others interested in sharing their opinions, ideas and experiences are encouraged to participate in an online survey, available through Nov. 21.

The new draft general management plan will be developed based on your survey feedback (and feedback from a stakehoder meeting). Additionally, the DNR will hold a public meeting next summer where you can review and comment on the draft plan.

Take online survey »

Related resources

About the park

Rockport State Recreation Area covers 4,237 acres and 5.9 miles of Lake Huron shoreline, offering unique cultural and natural resources, including 17 different natural communities. Visitors can explore geologic formations from former quarry operations, natural sinkholes and a variety of trails. The park also features a deep-water port and boating access site, popular for fishing and scuba diving. The park is home to a dark sky preserve and the Besser Natural Area, which helps protects rare plants and old-growth pine. 

Contact

For more information, contact Matt Lincoln, DNR Parks and Recreation Division land specialist, at LincolnM@Michigan.gov.