Michigan's Parks Are Free To Enter On Black Friday

MICHIGAN — Michigan's parks will be free on the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Wildlife officials say they know the day after Thanksgiving often is devoted to laying around on the couch recovering after the big feast, watching college football all day or hunting for the best Black Friday shopping deals.
This year they hope Michiganders will opt for another tradition — one started by Recreation Equipment, Inc. – the Kent, Washington-based retail and outdoor recreation services company known more commonly as REI.

The company’s #OptOutside campaign launched in 2015 has grown in popularity since.

The outdoors-focused movement encourages people to spend more time outside, and highlights the benefits of immersing yourself in nature, on Black Friday and all year long.

For the fourth year in a row, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is participating alongside REI in encouraging others to join the #OptOutsidemovement.

That means on Friday, Nov. 29, the DNR will waive the regular Recreation Passport vehicle entry fee providing access to Michigan’s 103 state parks and recreation areas, 138 state forest campgrounds, and state trailheads and boat launches.

“For anyone who’s been itching to get outdoors or someone who might need a nudge, Black Friday is the perfect day for residents and visitors to explore Michigan’s natural resources,” Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “From quiet trails to picturesque waterfalls, breathtaking vistas and more, state parks are full of opportunities for fun and reflection.”

While no Recreation Passport is needed, all camping, permit and license fees still apply.

“The holiday season can be hectic,” said Maia Turek, DNR Parks and Recreation Division resource development specialist. “This is a good way to stretch your legs, unwind and appreciate the gift of plentiful, scenic outdoor spaces. Michigan has some of the most beautiful destinations and getting outside in the fall and winter creates a completely different recreational experience for all of your senses.”

Ami Van Antwerp, DNR Parks and Recreation Division communications coordinator, said opting outside is a unique opportunity to explore Michigan’s natural assets.
“Spend a day under one roof, then spend a day under the sky,” she said. “When you think of all the different ways you can enjoy these green spaces, state parks are really like one big outdoor gym with 100-plus locations.”

Once you get outside, the DNR gives plenty of activities to choose from:

• Hike, run, fat-tire or mountain bike, snowshoe and more on over 13,000 miles of state-designated trails and pathways.
• Watch for birds and other wildlife on acres and acres of public lands.
• Discover Michigan’s fascinating backstories by visiting historic sites.
• Enjoy some late-season fishing (double-check to be sure your favorite boat launch is open).
• Hunt in Michigan’s state parks and recreation areas, state game areas or state forest lands.
• Soak in the peace and quiet of Michigan’s natural areas.
• Search for a variety of hidden geocaches as part of the State Park Centennial GeoTour.
• Capture some gorgeous nature photos with your camera or phone.

See their Things to Do webpage to learn more about all the different activities you can enjoy when you #OptOutside.