Michigan State Park Campground Upgrades Lead to 2024 Closures, Opportunity for Private Campgrounds

Several Michigan state park and recreation area campgrounds will undergo closures during the 2024 camping season. 

According to a report, these closures, announced by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, are due to various upgrade projects aimed at enhancing camper experiences.

Algonac State Park, known for its scenic riverfront campground, has already ceased reservations as of November 1. The park is undergoing a series of improvements, including the conversion of sites to full-hookup, the removal of the north bathroom, enhancements to the sanitation station, and road repaving. The reopening date remains unspecified, leaving potential visitors in anticipation.

Bay City State Park’s modern campground will be inaccessible until May 23. The park is set to receive comprehensive upgrades to its electrical, sewer, and water distribution systems. These improvements include the addition of full water and sewer hookup at several sites, new electrical pedestals at every campsite, an increase in 50 amp campsites, more ADA-compliant sites, a third lane at the sanitation station, and a new drainage system to mitigate flooding issues.

Brighton Recreation Area’s Bishop Lake is also on the list, with its modern campground closing from March 1 to July 14 for electrical and road upgrades. The Horseman’s Equestrian campground will follow suit, closing from June 1 to October 15 for road repairs.

Brimley State Park’s modern campground will delay its opening until May 23, attributing the postponement to electrical upgrades. Similarly, Cheboygan State Park’s modern campground, excluding its rustic cabins and modern lodge, is temporarily closed for an enhancement project focusing on electric and water distribution systems, with a planned reopening in spring 2024.

Fort Custer Recreation Area, strategically located between Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, has its campground closed with an expected reopening on July 31. The closure facilitates the replacement of the entire electrical system in the west loop of the campground, encompassing sites 1 through 110. Additionally, the campground’s restroom and shower buildings are set for replacement.

These closures, while temporary, present a unique opportunity for Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, particularly for nearby private campgrounds. With state facilities temporarily unavailable, private campgrounds have the chance to attract campers seeking alternative destinations. This situation offers these businesses a potential increase in visitors and revenue, highlighting the importance of the private sector in supporting Michigan’s robust outdoor recreation industry.

Private campground operators can capitalize on this opportunity by enhancing their marketing efforts, offering special promotions, and ensuring their facilities are prepared to accommodate an influx of campers. 

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources‘ decision to upgrade state park campgrounds reflects a commitment to maintaining high-quality outdoor recreational facilities. These improvements are expected to provide long-term benefits to Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, enhancing the state’s reputation as a premier destination for camping and outdoor activities.

Campers planning to visit these areas during the 2024 season are advised to stay informed about the closures and seek alternative arrangements. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommends checking their website for the latest updates and planning accordingly.