Michigan campers will soon encounter higher costs, as the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) prepares to roll out its first significant price update since January 2020. The revised pricing will take effect on August 1, 2025.
Modern and semi-modern campsite rates will see increases ranging from $4 to $10 per night, with specific pricing determined by the location and amenities offered. For campgrounds with occupancy rates of 85% or more, peak-season premium pricing will also be introduced.
Overnight lodging in state parks will be adjusted, with standard options costing between $60 and $120 per night and deluxe accommodations priced at $160 nightly. The DNR has stated that all additional funds generated will go toward improving and maintaining state park facilities.
Modern lodge rates will increase gradually, eventually reaching $236 per night, with a $50 nightly premium applied to locations consistently maintaining 85% or higher occupancy. New fees for intermittent camping and equipment storage are also part of the updated fee structure.
Rustic campsites at state parks and forest campgrounds will remain unaffected by these changes, ensuring that budget-friendly options are still available for campers seeking a simpler experience.
The DNR website highlights that the increased revenue will support enhanced visitor experiences statewide. Planned improvements include better customer service, cleaner facilities, resource conservation efforts, and upgraded campground features like new fire pits and picnic tables.
These pricing updates, aimed at addressing rising operational costs, are designed to sustain quality services at Michigan’s state parks and recreation areas. The adjustments were shaped by input from the Michigan State Park Advisory Committee and based on a market analysis to stay competitive with private campgrounds.
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Don’t remember seeing this here, but am just booking a state park in New Mexico. Looked previously in December 2024, and the rate for a full RV site was $14. On January 1, that increased to $30. Should have booked in December, I guess….
Michigan has become a joke. I took my final trip there back in September. Never again!
Michigan has sadly turned into a huge money grab with its State Parks.
I paid a ridiculous large fee for just an electric site with dirt parking ($39).
Then they charged me a booking fee, a vehicle fee (which cost me even more because I was out of state), but the worst was they charged me a fee for my toad!
All of the fees totaled more than the original campsite! I’m done with Michigan.
Thank you for the news, RV Travel! We have never traveled in Michigan, so I’ve no idea of how they tend to be maintained. Generally, I endorse efforts to be self-sufficient and staying current with maintenance and upkeep. Have a great weekend and safe travels!
Gotta love boondocking!
Nationwide, there’s so many state parks and CCC sites closed due to lack of funding and/or disrepair that it’s sad.
I totally support paying a fair price for fair accommodations and understand prices will never go down when costs keep increasing.
What I don’t support are increases to cover up government excess and waste. More money doesn’t cure waste anymore than more meth cures an addict….
WTH, Michigan! We’re lifelong Michiganders and have been putting up with overpriced, no service campgrounds for decades. $45 for 30 amp electric-only sites get sold out 10 minutes after the reservation window opens BECAUSE THERE’S NO OTHER CHOICE. Let’s stick it to the campers by charging even more.
Automotive registrations increased 40% over 15 years ago to pay for state parks. The state added a $14 per license plate free to pay for state parks. The money comes in, the parks remain outdated, in desperate need of maintenance, and now will cost even more.
We are becoming fulltimers in June of this year. I won’t miss the battle for these expensive sites.
https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/01/dnr-pauses-plan-to-clear-cut-4000-acres-of-state-forest-for-solar-power-plant/
The state in it’s infinite wisdom, based on backlash, decided that they couldn’t take the environmental impact of clear-cutting land in order to put up solar panels.
Already overpriced. We love Mich. from Maine. But expensive for sure.