Renovations at Port Crescent State Park, located on Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay shoreline, will culminate in the reopening of its campsites for reservations in January.
The upgrades, part of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) state park overhaul funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, aim to enhance accessibility and modernize facilities.
Situated at the tip of Michigan’s “thumb,” the park features three miles of shoreline, a day-use recreation area, and 143 campsites. The upgrades, which began in fall 2023, are intended to improve visitor experience.
Reservations at Port Crescent State Park are managed through the DNR’s system, allowing bookings up to six months in advance. The campsites will officially reopen in late June 2025, with reservations beginning in January. The campground layout is also undergoing final adjustments before going live on the reservation system.
The renovation budget, nearly $5 million, has been allocated to enhance the day-use area, campgrounds, utilities, and amenities. Completed improvements include road resurfacing and expanded parking areas.
Additional completed upgrades include showers in the beach house and comprehensive repairs to water, sewer, and other utility systems.
Current upgrades focus on the campground, including utility and road repairs. Two campsites have been repaved with asphalt and equipped with full hookups, offering improved accessibility for visitors with limited mobility, according to Park Supervisor Brian Dunn.
“We’ve missed our campers,” Dunn said, as reported by M Live.
According to its website, the park features a dark sky preserve, a campground with waterfront views, and a variety of overnight lodging options, including geodesic domes, camper cabins, and cottages. Visitors can also enjoy the Pinnebog River, scenic trails, stunning sunsets, and activities such as fishing, canoeing, birding, cross-country skiing, and hunting.