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Park programs and amenities

Costume and pumpkin Contest winners

Park programs and amenities

Michigan's parks are so much than just a park! We have events, programs, classes, activities and amenities for people of all ages, interests and abilities. Come stay for a few nights or just for the day.

Featured event

Happy Little Trees 5K T-shirt with trees, mountains and Bob Ross' drawing

2025 Happy Little Trees (Virtual) 5K registration open

No matter how you reach the finish line - walk, run or roll - you pick the pace and the place, anywhere outdoors! Everyone who participates gets a Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and finisher's medal. All you have to do is complete your 5K between April 19-27, 2025. It's no coincidence that Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 25) fall between these dates!

Registration is $36 and includes your keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, finisher’s medal, commemorative bib number and shipping.

All race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Michigan state parks.

Register now, find race info »

Event calendar

Check our event calendar to find what is happening at a park near you. On the calendar you will find events such as Halloween festivals, lantern lit hikes, outdoor skills classes and more.

Explore events

A trail with steps lit up at night with colorful lights

Programs and classes

Harvests and Haunts

Many parks hold fun fall and Halloween events. Some are only for registered campers, so book early as these dates fill quickly!

Nature programs

Many of our parks offer seasonal outdoor education programs. Schedules will also be posted in the parks.

Dark Sky

Go stargazing at a dark sky preserve or join us for Meteors n S'mores during the Perseid meteor shower.

Outdoor Skills Academy

Hands-on learning for a range of outdoor activities, from hunting and fishing to hiking, birding and much more.