Did you know that 2019 marks the 100th year of the Michigan State Park organization? One of the things I love so much about this beautiful state is the natural beauty of our parks. I’m sure everyone has their favorite one, mine happens to be the Tawas Point Lighthouse and State Park. No big surprise there. Situated on over 200 acres on the northern tip of Tawas Bay, it offers a full hook up campground, several beaches (including a dog beach), a historical lighthouse, a 2+ mile trail that weaves through marshes, beaches and woods where you can observe all kinds of wildlife. There is a bathhouse, a beach cafe and even live entertainment from time to time. Kiteboarders and windsurfers come from all over the Midwest to play in these waves. Birdwatchers also love the Point, they have their own annual festival and have recorded over 160 species in a single weekend!
There are MANY cool things offered by the Michigan State Parks that a lot of people just don’t know about.
Examples: (SP= state park)
Snowshoe building clinics at Sleepy Hollow SP and Ludington SP
Ice fishing clinic at Micthell SP
Lantern lit snowshow hikes at many SPs including Hoffmaster, Island Lake and Tahquamenon Falls
Easter Egg Hunts at Young SP and Lakeport SP
Moonlight Bootleggers 5K run at Ionia SP complete with old timey music and moonshine cocktails at the finish line.
Beach Yoga at the Lighthouse at Silver Lake SP.
These are just a few examples of the year round activities offered at your local state parks. Most activities are free, you just need an annual recreation pass which is only $11 at the SOS or $16 at a DNR office. That is an incredible deal when you think about everything you get in return. Plus all of that money goes back into the park system and keeping them operating for generations to come.
Part of my new “Living Simply” lifestyle is to spend more time outside. Just breath in the fresh air, relax, unwind. I can’t think of a better place to do that than in one of our gorgeous parks. I encourage you to get out there and visit one today!
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