Hurry! Little 4th of July Camping, Lodging Remains at State Parks

There were still some camping spots available early this week at Lime Island State Recreation Area on the eastern end of the Upper Peninsula, but state parks in general are more than 90 percent booked for the Independence Day holiday. (Photo via Creative Commons)

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If you’re planning to camp in one of Michigan’s state parks over the Fourth of July weekend, you’d better make your reservation now.

The parks are 90.51 percent booked, compared with 88.6 percent this time last year, said Jacquelyn Baker, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Parks & Recreation Division.

Baker said Great Lakes shoreline parks book quickly because of their fantastic views, but she reminded campers that many central Michigan parks offer beautiful inland lake views and campsites.

State parks that have the most campsites and lodging alternatives, such as cabins, yurts, and tepees – in a recent report are (they’re booking quickly, so we can’t guarantee sports are still available):

Southeast Michigan: Lakeport State Park; Waterloo Recreation Area

Southwest Michigan: Fort Custer

Northern Michigan: Hartwick Pines

Eastern U.P.: Lime Island State Park

Western U.P.: Porkies, Twin Lakes State Park, Van Riper

To make a reservation, go to the Central Reservation System, found online at www.midnrreservations.com, or call 1-800-447-2757.

Several parks are participating in a Fireworks-Free Fourth of July celebration out of deference to veterans, for whom loud explosives may trigger symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Aerial fireworks aren’t allowed in state parks, but the DNR is discouraging the use of fireworks that are allowed out of respect for “veterans who may want a quieter celebration.”