Free days in Minnesota and Michigan state parks

On the second weekend of June, everyone is invited for a day of fishing, hiking and trail riding.

© Torsten Muller

The second weekend in June is a good time to try something new in Minnesota and Michigan.

On June 11 in 2022, admission to all Minnesota state parks is free.

Check for naturalist-led events. This year, they included guided nature hikes in many parks as well as programs on fossils, falcons and frogs.

The $7 daily vehicle charge will be waived in state parks, and it's free to borrow GPS units and kits for birding, fishing and kids' discovery any time.

In Michigan, June 11-12 is Free Fishing Weekend and Free ORV Weekend, with free fishing, free off-road vehicle trail riding and free admission to Michigan's 103 state parks.

On other days, non-residents pay $9 for a day pass. Off-road vehicle riding also is free on Aug. 20-21.

Here are some of the good places to fish in Michigan.

Where to stay

Minnesota has a large selection of camper cabins, guesthouses and even tipis. Reserve early for weekends.

For more, see Lodgings in Minnesota state parks.

Michigan has an even bigger selection of mini-cabins, rustic cabins, camper cabins, lodges, yurts and tipis.

For more, see Michigan's great lake cabins.