LANSING, MICH. -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has temporarily suspended the requirement of its Recreation Passport, making public access to all state parks and recreation areas free for the time being.

The suspension of the Recreation Passport requirement was announced late Wednesday in a release about several DNR operational changes to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Under normal circumstances, the passport -- which is $12 annually -- is necessary for vehicle entry into state parks and recreation areas, state boat launches, state forest campgrounds and state trail parking lots.

DNR officials said the reason for the suspension is two-fold: To limit transactions between the public and DNR staff in an effort to prevent the spread of coronavirus, and to encourage people to pursue healthy activities outdoors.

“It’s an encouragement to let people know state parks and trails are accessible, as long as people are following health considerations,” said John Pepin, deputy public information officer for the DNR.

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The DNR has not set a date for when it will stop waiving the need for a Recreation Passport.

Other DNR operational changes in light of the coronavirus pandemic include temporarily closing many public contact areas at DNR-managed facilities, including restroom buildings, shooting ranges, and visitor centers. Several changes were also made that will affect camping at Michigan state parks and rec areas.

Further updates about changes and closures at DNR facilities can be found at Michigan.gov/DNRClosures.

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