Are state parks free in Michigan?
Robert Guerrero
Updated on February 16, 2026
That's two full days when residents and out-of-state visitors can grab a fishing rod, ride the off-road trails and visit state parks all free of charge. “Michigan is home to some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities and most beautiful natural spaces you'll find anywhere,†said DNR Director Dan Eichinger.
Considering this, are Michigan State Park still free?
At state parks vehicles will pay $17, motorcycles will pay $11. Non-residents can pay $9 for a day pass or $34 for the year.
Furthermore, is there a senior pass for Michigan state parks? The passport gives users year-round access to Michigan's state parks, campgrounds and boating access sites. The state increase follows the December announcement by Huron-Clinton Metroparks that its price for vehicle passes increased $5. The annual metroparks pass had been $35 and $24 for seniors age 62 and older.
Besides, do I need a Michigan state park pass?
The Recreation Passport (replaced the former state parks sticker) is required for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots. Local, county, municipal and metropolitan park passes will need to be purchased separately.
Can I visit state parks in Michigan?
A Recreation Passport is required for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas, state forest campgrounds, and most boating access sites and state trailheads.
Related Question Answers
How much does it cost to camp at Michigan state parks?
The cost of overnight tent camping at one of the 1,200 rustic state forests campgrounds will be $13. Shelters in state parks will range from $35 for teepees at various sites to $120 for a camper cabin at Holley Recreation Area.Do Michigan state parks take credit cards?
Forms of payment that will be accepted include MasterCard, Visa, Discover and the DNR state park and harbor gift card. The gift card then can be used to make a reservation online at or via the call center at 1-800-44PARKS (1-800-447-2757).What beaches are closed in Michigan?
Pike Bay at Portage Canal / Lake Superior - Chassell Beach- Veterans Memorial Park Beach.
- Crossroads for Youth.
- Wixom Lake - Wixom Waters.
- Crooked Lake - Independence Oaks County Park.
- Big Seven Lake - Seven Lakes State Park.
What is a Michigan recreation Passport?
Michigan State Parks Recreation Passport The Recreation Passport replaces the state parks sticker to get you into all state parks, state recreation areas and state boat launches. Your Recreation Passport also helps preserve state forest campgrounds and trails, and historic and cultural sites in state parks.How much does it cost to get into Tahquamenon Falls?
How much does it cost to get into Tahquamenon Falls? In State: You can get a Recreation Passport through the Secretary of State when renewing license tabs. If you don't have a Passport, vehicles will pay $17, motorcycles will pay $11. Pay at the entrance.Is Michigan a state?
Location map of the State of Michigan in the US. Michigan is one of the East North Central states in the US. The state's name is the French version of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake."How much is a passport in Michigan?
Routine Service up to 18 weeks.Current Processing Times (Per U.S. Department of State Passport Services):
| Fees Paid to U.S. Passport Agency | Adults (16+) | Minors (Under 16) |
|---|---|---|
| Passport Book Fee | $110.00 | $80.00 |
| Passport Card Fee | $30.00 | $20.00 |
| *Expedite Fee (Additional) | $60.00 | |
| *Overnight Return Mailing | $17.56 | |
How much does it cost to get into Algonac State Park?
The park's summer cost range will change from between $22 and $27 a night, to $24 to $29. "I think most people understand that fees have to be increased from time to time to keep with the rate of inflation," said Dennis Wilson, supervisor for Algonac State Park.Where can I buy a park pass?
How to purchase:- In person: Find a location to purchase this pass at a federal recreation site.
- Online: Buy this pass from the USGS Store.
- By phone: Call 888-ASK USGS (1-888-275-8747), extension 2. Hours of operation are 8 am to 4 pm Mountain Time.
How many national parks does Michigan have?
The National Park Service operates five national parks in Michigan -- though some are under specific designations, like national lakeshore, national battlefield and national heritage park. Collectively they attract more than 2.5 million visitors each year.What is the Michigan Activity Pass?
The Michigan Activity Pass [MAP] presented by The Library Network program is a partnership between Michigan's nearly 400 public libraries and hundreds of Michigan's state parks (formerly the Park & Read program), historic sites, cultural attractions, campgrounds and recreation areas.When can I buy a 2021 Michigan fishing license?
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources provided information this week about fishing licenses that all anglers must have in 2021. The new license sales begin today for the season beginning on April 1. Michigan's annual fishing license is valid from March 1 of a given year through March 31 the following year.Does Belle Isle take credit cards?
Visit the park to make a deposit in person or mail it (no mailed cash) to Belle Isle Park Administration Office (white house), 2 Inselruhe, Detroit, MI 48206. Payment is accepted in the form of cash, credit card, certified check or money order.How many state parks are in Ohio?
74 state parksDo senior citizens get into state parks for free?
Age 62 or older. Provides free entrance to all state park, forest, recreation area and historic site facilities that charge daily walk-in or parking fees, as well as a $2 per night discount on campsite fees (excluding group campsites). The senior citizen pass is valid for your lifetime.What is the difference between Golden Age Passport and senior pass?
The Senior Pass replaces the Golden Age Passport. This is a lifetime pass for US citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance or standard amenity fee. This pass replaces the Golden Access Passport.Do state parks Honor National Park Passes?
No. The Annual Pass is valid at participating Federal recreation sites.How do I get a Golden Age Passport?
How do I get one? A Golden Age Passport MUST be obtained IN PERSON at any federal area where an entrance fee is charged. There is a one-time $10 processing charge to obtain the Golden Age Passport. It is available only to citizens or permanent residents of the United States who are 62 years old or older.Can I use my husband's National Park Pass?
Passes can have two owners, so you and a spouse, friend, relative, co-worker, etc., can share the pass and split the cost. You'll need to show the pass with valid identification, so you'll want to be sure you share it with someone you can easily share the pass back and forth with.Does AARP offer camping discounts?
AARP offers membership – at $12.50/year – to those over 50 years old. Like many of the other clubs, camping discounts are but one of the many benefits of membership. Show your AARP card at check-in and receive a 10% discount at participating campgrounds.What is the most visited state park in Michigan?
Holland State ParkIs alcohol allowed in Michigan state parks?
Alcohol. Alcohol possession and use is limited or prohibited at some state parks.Are masks required in Michigan state parks?
COVID-19 HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR STATE PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS: It's recommended that visitors wear face masks when inside any enclosed public building for your safety and the safety of others. We encourage you to bring gloves, hand sanitizer, disinfectant and any other health and safety items you deem necessary.Which state has the most state parks?
New York has 1,416 state park sites, by far the most of any state, while Alabama has the fewest at 22.What Michigan state parks have full hookups?
- Big Cedar Campground Canoe & Kayak Livery – Germfask, MI.
- Sunlight Resorts.
- Cedar Valley RV Park, Inc.
- City of Menominee – River Park Campground.
- Traverse Bay RV Resort.
- Canada Creek Ranch Association, Inc.
- Twin Oaks Campground & Cabins.
- Miller Lake Campground.
