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About the RAM Center

a wooden walkway at the RAM Center

About the RAM Center

Nestled on the northern shore of Higgins Lake, the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center is available for families, small groups and individuals; nonprofit, government and education-based organizations; as well as private businesses with an outdoor- or green-themed agenda. It is owned and operated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Combine the fun of summer camp with the facilities of a premier conference center. Unplug yourself from modern distractions and reconnect with your family, friends or team members. Lodging is available for up to 135 participants (double occupancy) in six rustic lodges, and there are several large conference spaces that can accommodate up to 250 guests, as well as several smaller meeting spaces for a more intimate group setting.

104 Conservation Drive
Roscommon, MI 48653
989-821-6200
MacmullanCenter@Michigan.gov

Picture yourself here

benches and flowers on concrete porch

Browse through our photo gallery that includes many of our lodging accommodations, dining hall, meeting and conference rooms, outdoor spaces and more. There's also a virtual tour of the Harry H. Whiteley Conservation Education Building, which serves as the main hub for conference and meeting space.

Photo gallery and virtual tour »

History

The Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center began as the Higgins Lake Conservation Training School in 1941. Many of the buildings were proudly constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corp from 1939-1942. Over time, many other individuals and organizations helped build the furnishings that gave the center its unique "up-north" style.

In 1972, upon the death of DNR Director Ralph A. MacMullan, the facility was renamed to the Ralph A. MacMullan Conservation School. It was later renamed the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center. Many people today call it the RAM Center for short.

Each summer, between 1941 and 1988, the DNR conducted the Teachers Conservation School where generations of Michigan teachers came to the facility to learn about conservation of Michigan’s natural resources directly from the people who managed them. The school underwent many changes throughout the following decades and was run by various organizations.

For several decades, the tradition continued with the annual DNR Academy of Natural Resources. Today, many groups and organizations regularly meet at the RAM Center to come together to learn about natural resources and connect along the shores of Higgins Lake. Many people fondly refer to the RAM Center as their second home.

Traditionally, reservations were open to nonprofit, government and education-based organizations, as well as private business with an outdoor or green-themed agenda. In March 2021, the RAM Center opened up to families and small groups that also incorporate an outdoor- or green-themed agenda during their stay.

Teachers learn about gun safety at Teachers Conservation School at RAM Center