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Almost 100 years ago, the Michigan State Park Commission set the course for visitors to enjoy and explore four seasons of fun. May 12, 2019 officially marks the anniversary of state parks, and the DNR is planning a yearlong centennial celebration. Join in and celebrate our rich history and take an energizing look forward as we mark this milestone year with special events, podcasts, historical stories, videos, geocaching and more.
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It's official! State parks' birthday year begins
Nearly 100 years ago, people in Michigan were rallying to protect the state’s most beautiful outdoor destinations. On May 12, 1919, the Michigan Legislature established the Michigan State Park Commission, paving the way for Michigan's state parks system..
Consider this your official invitation to join the centennial celebration! Share memories and photos, attend special events, explore new (or favorite) parks and learn more about our history. Visit michigan.gov/stateparks100 to see what’s in store.
Check out the new video for a bird's-eye view of some of these special places.
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The storied past of Michigan state parks
So many people, places and events helped shape our state parks system into what it is today. These stories – everything from the auto industry’s impact on outdoor recreation, to tales of Babe Ruth getting caught doing some out-of-season fishing – just add to the lore and nostalgia surrounding state parks. Read more about these “historical stories of significance” on the centennial website. (Photo: Island Lake State Park)
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Share your state park memories, photos
To capture special state park memories, a new online State Parks Memory Map (a virtual guest book) is available to everyone.
Explore the special memories submitted by our visitors and staff – camping trips, day hikes, Petoskey stone finds and more – or add a story and photo at michigan.gov/stateparks100 (click Explore map, add your story).
- Click “Share your memory” (blue button in upper, right-hand corner).
- You can sign in as a guest, so no login is required.
- Add as many stories and photos as you like (like the photo above).
"My Gram and Papa loved to travel. Often, they took my sister, Fawn and I along on their Michigan adventures. We visited a lot of state parks like Silver Lake, Palms Book, Tahquamenon Falls and more! Here we are at the falls...circa 1985."
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Camp or day-trip during May 12 birthday weekend
Interested in camping during the official anniversary weekend, May 10-12? Book your favorite park or explore one you haven't yet visited! Make reservations at midnrreservations.com.
Camping parties will receive this complimentary commemorative bumper sticker upon arrival. Put it on your vehicle, bike, laptop or notebook and show your state park pride.
Or, make it a day trip. Grab your hiking shoes, backpack, bike, rod or paddle and explore one of Michigan's 103 state parks.
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MARVAC helps you prep for centennial adventures
The cold and snow won’t last forever. Get a head start on camping season with a visit to a MARVAC RV & camping show.
You'll find dealers showcasing the latest gear, camping equipment, folding campers, motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers and fifth wheel travel trailers. Stop by the DNR booth and say hello. We'll help you get started planning your centennial-year camping trip.
Visit marvac.org for show and ticket information on upcoming shows:
- Detroit RV & Camping Show Feb. 6-10
- Battle Creek RV & Camping Show Feb. 28-March 3
- Port Huron RV & Camping Show March 7-10
- Annual Flint RV & Camping Show March 14-17
- Northwest Michigan RV & Camping Show March 22-24
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New website connects you to everything centennial
Stay up to date on centennial news and information at michigan.gov/stateparks100. You'll find an evolving array of centennial-related information like a calendar of events, a memory map, videos, a new geoaching tour, opportunities to donate and/or purchase merchandise and more.
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