That picturesque state park your family has camped at for years. The wooded trail that brings you peace — and your four-legged companion utter joy. The boat launch that is your tried-and-true spot for fishing excursions with friends.
State-managed parks, trails and waterways are important to each of us because they're places where memories are made. For this reason, the DNR wants to hear from you as staff looks ahead and plans the future of these precious public spaces.
"The future of Michigan's parks and recreation system should be shaped by the people who use, support and care about it," said Thomas Bissett, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "Input from our staff, partners, visitors and communities helps us better understand what's working, where challenges exist and where opportunities lie."
Public input is sought on the following projects:
DNR Parks and Recreation Division's next five-year plan
Share your thoughts on Michigan's state parks and state forest campgrounds, trails and state forest pathways, linear state parks, harbors and boating access sites by completing this survey by Nov. 18. Whether you're a frequent visitor, business owner, community member or simply someone who appreciates the state's natural and cultural resources, we want to hear from you. Responses will help establish themes that will inform the DNR's vision for Michigan state parks, trails and waterways. Your input is anonymous and confidential.
"This feedback is critical as we develop a strategic plan that will guide our decisions for years to come," Bissett said. "By sharing these perspectives, Michiganders are helping us create a roadmap that keeps our parks relevant, accessible and responsive while ensuring we remain good stewards of the resources entrusted to our care."
Questions? Contact Thomas Bissett at 517-284-6120.
Road reconstruction at Island Lake Recreation Area
Whether you enjoy walking, biking or exploring the trails at Island Lake Recreation Area (Livingston County), an upcoming road project could affect your experience. The Road Commission for Oakland County is seeking public input on a planned 2027 project to reconstruct and resurface the intersection of Kent Lake Road and Grand River Avenue in Lyon Township. As part of the project, the pedestrian crossing on Kent Lake Road for the Island Lake Pathway (part of the Huron Valley/Island State Recreation Area Trail) will also be rebuilt.
If Island Lake and its trails are part of your outdoor adventures, take a moment to share your input by calling 877-858-4804 or emailing Design@RCOC.org. You can also find more details about the proposed project on the road commission's website.
Questions? Contact the Road Commission for Oakland County at 877-858-4804 or Design@RCOC.org.
Natural resources planning at Wilderness State Park
Those interested in long-term natural resources management planning for Wilderness State Park (Emmet County) are invited to give feedback on a new stewardship plan for the park. The public input process is essential to ensuring the park continues to serve visitors and the Emmet County community for years to come.
Learn more about this new stewardship plan on the park's webpage and provide feedback by filling out this survey. A public meeting also is part of the public input process and is being planned. More details will be shared soon.
"This plan supports the park's general management plan, which was completed early this year and serves as a roadmap for the protection, restoration and sustainable management of the park's natural resources," said Steven Woods, state parks regional ecologist for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.
Questions? Contact Steven Woods at 989-889-9492.