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the Michigan Department of
Natural Resources is closing many amenities offered in state parks and
recreation areas, effective now through at least April 13.
State parks and recreation areas currently remain open to provide
residents with local opportunities to get outdoors; however, extensive
travel should be minimal – and reserved only for essential needs – and
effective social distancing (of at least 6 feet between yourself and
another person) is required so that unsafe conditions do not develop and
state-managed lands can remain open.
“We are doing everything possible to protect the health and safety of
visitors and staff at state parks and recreation areas,” said DNR
Director Dan Eichinger. “No matter how people are choosing to get
outdoors, it is critical that everyone follows the social distancing
guidelines. If they don’t, we will be forced to close public access to
all state-managed lands.”
Closures and reduction in services include:
* *Many park amenities have been closed* in order to minimize the
chance of people gathering in groups and/or maximize the environment
for effective social distancing. Current closures include, but are
not limited to, concessions, playgrounds and play equipment, viewing
platforms, fishing piers, GaGa ball bits, volleyball and basketball
courts, designated dog areas, disc golf courses, radio-controlled
flying fields, pump tracks, and picnic tables and shelters.
* *All bathroom buildings and vault toilets will be closed* in all
state parks and recreation areas, including those at campgrounds,
boating access sites, trailheads at state-designated trails, etc.
People are encouraged to plan accordingly to avoid needing a
restroom during a visit. Note: Over the next few days, vault toilets
will be closing. Many locations, where available, will be
transitioning to portable toilets that will be cleaned by local vendors.
* *There will be minimal trash service available*. Visitors are
encouraged to bring trash bags, if needed, to carry trash home and
minimize litter.
* *No hand washing stations will be provided*. Please carry hand
sanitizer or sanitizing wipes containing at least 60% alcohol, as
well as trash bags to carry out used wipes.
* *Additionally, *grooming of snowmobile trails* (the season closes
March 31) and grooming, brushing, grading and clearing of all
*nonmotorized trails and ORV trails are suspended* until at least
the end of the order. When out on any trail, be aware of
surroundings, including the potential for washouts or debris. To
report anything that could be a risk to other trail users, call
517-331-0111.
* *For the duration of this order, the DNR is unable to reimburse
trail sponsors or grant sponsors for any trail-related work.
Follow the DNR’s COVID-19 response webpage
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