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New Legislation Aims to Prioritize Michigan Campers for State Park Reservations

In a move to prioritize Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts, State Representative Cam Cavitt has unveiled a legislative proposal designed to ensure Michigan residents get first dibs on campground reservations within state parks and forests. 

According to a release, the proposed House Bill 5597 seeks to establish a two-week exclusive reservation window for Michigan residents before opening up availability to out-of-state campers.

Rep. Cavitt expressed concern over the rapid pace at which camping spots at Michigan’s state parks are being snapped up, often leaving local residents out in the cold. 

“The overwhelming interest in camping within our beautiful state is heartening, yet it’s disheartening to see Michigan families miss out on these opportunities,” Cavitt remarked.

“Given that these families contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of these parks through their taxes, it’s only fair that they get the first opportunity to enjoy them,” Cavitt added.

Under the current system, campers are allowed to book their spots up to six months in advance of their trip. 

This has led to a scenario where, by January 8, a third of all campsites for the year 2024 were already reserved. 

High-demand areas, such as Cheboygan and Thompson Harbor state parks, see their available spots fill up within mere hours of opening for reservations.

The introduction of HB 5597 has sparked a conversation about equitable access to natural resources and the benefits of state residency. 

The bill is now under review by the House Natural Resources Committee, which will consider its implications for both Michigan residents and the broader camping community.

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OliverTwine
OliverTwine
March 20, 2024 9:20 am

Have you ever felt like snagging a camping spot in Michigan was a real mission impossible? Get ready for a thrilling rescue with State Rep. Cam Cavitt’s bill! It’s like having a camping superhero on your side, ensuring your S’mores and tent dreams come true stress-free in the Great Lakes State!

JaxPon3r85
JaxPon3r85
March 20, 2024 11:48 am

Did you know? This new idea from Cam Cavitt is all about looking out for us campers in Michigan! It’s a cool move to ensure we Michiganders get first dibs on those sweet camping spots in our state parks. With this bill, it’ll be way easier for us to enjoy the great outdoors here. How awesome is that?

LilaSunset
LilaSunset
March 20, 2024 12:10 pm

Isn’t it interesting that there’s a new bill proposed to help Michiganders secure campground spots? Representative Cam Cavitt’s got our backs! The bill aims to give us locals a fair shot at booking before out-of-towners swoop in. It’s all about making sure we Michiganders have a good chance to enjoy our state’s beautiful parks. Plus, it’s great to see efforts toward transparency and community engagement in outdoor fun!

TinaCloud
TinaCloud
March 20, 2024 12:32 pm

Isn’t it cool how State Rep. Cam Cavitt’s bill prioritizes Michigan campers for state park reservations? It shows a real commitment to fairness and preserving outdoor spaces for us Michiganders.

Michael Smith
Michael Smith
March 20, 2024 4:23 pm

Did you catch the scoop on the new bill from State Rep. Cam Cavitt? Michigan residents are in for a treat with exclusive reservation windows at state parks! It’s about time we get our fair share of camping spots. What do you think about this new rule?

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: New Legislation Aims to Prioritize Michigan Campers for State Park Reservations! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/michigan/new-legislation-aims-to-prioritize-michigan-campers-for-state-park-reservations/