Michigan state parks see banner year for camping

Low fuel prices and an improved economy have helped boost the number of nights spent camping in Michigan’s state parks and recreation areas past 1 million for 2015.

That’s the first time the state has hit that number since 2012, and it’s 9% higher than 2014 reservations. Even better news: Campers say they like what they’re getting.

“Overall, the numbers are up, and the customer feedback we’re getting has been really positive,” said Jason Fleming, resource management chief for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ parks division.

Fleming said surveys of campers during the 2015 year show that 89% rate the experience as “good” or “very good.”

“First of all, they really like the services,” Fleming said. “They like the fact that we go in and we take care of the facilities.” Fleming said the state is always working on off-season improvements such as updating facilities or upgrading electrical service throughout a campground. Another priority is improving accessibility.

He said campers also gave the state parks’ reservation system good marks.

The majority of campers in state parks use tents or recreational vehicles, but Fleming said cabins, mini-cabins, yurts and a handful of lodges that once served as residences for park supervisors are popular. They’re also a good choice for first-time visitors or people who want less-rustic lodging in the outdoors.

“How do we reach out to people who don’t camp?” Fleming said. “Is that through cabins or our camping 101 program?” That program offers all equipment necessary and help with setup at selected campgrounds to teach newbies the ropes of camping.

Fleming said the state’s recreation staffers are trying to find ways to expand on midweek camping, when parks tend to be less full. Since many campers don’t go far from home, that could mean encouraging “staycations.”

“If I live close by and I work nearby, I can do both,” Fleming said. “I can go to work and come back to the campground at the end of the day.”

The 1 millionth camper of 2015 was Cameron Wells of New Hudson, who made the 1 millionth camping night reservation at Proud Lake Recreation Area in Oakland County .He camped there with his mother, Linda Wells. The state operates more than 100 parks and 16 marinas around Michigan.