DETROIT (WWJ) - If you like the outdoors, you may want to head to a Michigan state park.
June 8 and 9 is Three Free Weekend, with free admission, fishing and riding ORV trails at all state parks in Michigan. A fishing license and ORV license is normally $26, on top of admission.
"Michigan is home to some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities and most beautiful natural spaces you’ll find anywhere," DNR Director Dan Eichinger said in a statement. "Whether you’re already an avid outdoors-person or someone just beginning to explore the outdoors, our ‘Three Free’ weekend makes it easy to explore a new hobby, visit a new park or introduce friends to an outdoor experience you love."
These two days include:• Free fishing -- Twice a year (once in the summer, once in the winter), residents and nonresidents can enjoy Free Fishing Weekends and fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations do apply.• Free state park entry -- To encourage people to pursue free fishing and other outdoor fun within state parks, the DNR waives the regular Recreation Passport entry fee that grants vehicle access to Michigan’s 103 state parks. • Riding ORV trails for free -- During two Free ORV Weekends each year (the second one this year is set for Aug. 17-18), Michigan residents and nonresidents legally can ride DNR-designated routes and trails without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit.
For the best outdoor experiences, the DNR urges everyone to put safety first when they’re enjoying Michigan’s woods, water and trails. Helpful safety tips -- for ORV, boating, beach, fire and other topics -- are available at Michigan.gov/DNREducation.
Additionally, many invasive plant and insect species continue to pose serious threats to Michigan’s natural landscape. When your day outdoors is done, take care to avoid giving invasive species a ride -- clean mud, seeds and debris from vehicles, gear and clothing. Find out what other actions you can take to help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect the places you love at Michigan.gov/Invasives.