Michigan hikes camping fees. What to know about new prices
- Michigan state parks will raise fees on modern and semi-modern campsites by $4 to $10 a night starting Aug. 1
- Cabin and lodging rates will also increase to cover rising costs like utilities and staffing
- Some Michigan parks also fully or partially closes this summer or fall
Campers should expect higher prices at Michigan state parks, starting Tuesday.
The Department of Natural Resources is increasing fees for some campsites and overnight lodging effective Aug. 1, a move officials say will help the state keep up with rising operational costs.
Rates for modern and semi-modern campsites will go up by $4 to $10 per night, depending on the amenities and location. Modern sites include electricity, showers, and flush toilets, while semi-modern sites offer either electricity or restroom facilities. Rustic campsite rates will not change.
Cabin stays will range from $60 to $120 a night and deluxe lodging will cost $160. Modern lodge prices will rise gradually but won’t exceed $236 a night. A 7.5% premium will apply to sites with at least 85% occupancy, while a $50 nightly premium will apply to high-demand lodges.
The DNR announced the price hikes in January, saying the higher fees reflect growing expenses, including utilities, equipment replacement and staffing.
Campers can book sites up to six months in advance, meaning the new rates will apply to reservations made from February, as well as any drop-in camping that is available, beginning this week.
Related:
- Michigan state park camping fees to increase starting Aug. 1
- As inflation strains Michigan parks, DNR budgets, lawmakers weigh fee hikes
- Michigan gives boost to summer boating with $3.8M for local marina projects
- Pure Michigan: It’s a fragrance now. State launches beach-themed spray
The DNR also plans to introduce new fees for intermittent camping, which covers vehicle and equipment storage.
About 97% of the funding for operating and maintaining Michigan’s state parks comes from user fees and royalties. Nearly half of that, about 48%, is generated through camping and lodging reservation fees.
Recreation Passport sales contribute 29% and another 11% comes from royalties on state-owned oil, gas and mineral resources, which support the Michigan State Parks Endowment Fund. The remaining funding comes from concessions, shelter reservations, interest earnings, and other miscellaneous sources.
Many state parks are partially or fully closed for the season as they undergo repairs, according to the DNR:
Allegan State Game Area (Allegan County)
The Trowbridge Dam boat launch and portage on the Kalamazoo River will be closed until 2027 for EPA-led cleanup work. Access will be limited; paddlers should exit at Pine Creek or Fox Mountain. Canoe/kayak pickups will end Sept. 20.
Bewabic State Park (Iron County)
B and C campground loops closed for 2025 season for construction. A loop remains open with some noise expected.
Black River Boating Access Site (Gogebic County)
Closed indefinitely due to low water after partial dam failure. Area is unsafe due to soft, exposed lakebed.
Brighton Recreation Area – Bishop Lake campground
Closed in 2025 for road and electrical upgrades. The reopening date is delayed due to unforeseen issues and will be announced once confirmed.
Cheboygan State Park campground
The modern campground is closed throughout 2025 for renovations to the toilet and shower building. No reopening date provided.
Clear Lake State Park campground
Closing August 4, 2025, for upgrades to the water distribution system, toilet and shower building, and sanitation station. No reopening date specified but closure lasts through the 2025 season.
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park east loop
Closing August 1, 2025, through the end of the season for electrical system and campsite upgrades. The sanitation station and cabin remain open.
Hoffmaster State Park visitor center and trails
The visitor center closed for renovations throughout summer 2025. The visitor center parking lot and some trails remain closed until at least August 5, 2025.
Indian Lake State Park south campground and day-use areas
Closing August 11, 2025, for the season due to the construction of a new toilet and shower building and shoreline restoration. Reopening date not yet announced.
Ionia State Recreation Area campground and cabins
Closed through October 31, 2025, for upgrades to the toilet and shower building, sanitation station, drain field, and electrical system.
Lake Gogebic State Park campground and cabins
Closed August 18, 2025, through July 20, 2026, for water, sewer, and electrical system upgrades.
McLain State Park sites #1-91 and Driftwood Tiny House
Closing October 1, 2025, for the season due to electrical upgrade work. Other sites and cabins remain open.
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