Michigan House of Representatives Designates August as “Michigan Camping & RV Month”

For generations, Michigan has welcomed campers to its woodlands, freshwater shoreline and along its inland lakes and streams, in two distinct peninsulas – nestled in the middle of the Great Lakes Region. In honor of such tradition, Michigan legislators have declared August as “Michigan Camping & Recreational Vehicle Month” – with Representative Ken Horn’s (R – Frankenmuth) introduction and the subsequent adoption of House Resolution 0315.*

"Camping in Michigan is a truly unique experience that is enjoyed by so many people, both in and outside our great state," Horn says. "Officially recognizing camping and RV use during the month of August is an excellent way to honor a great American pastime and timeless Michigan tradition."

Michiganians and visitors alike take advantage of our great state’s array of sun, freshwater coastline, 19 million acres of woodlands, soft breezes and fresh air, where the temperate climate allows for great camping and outdoor recreations.

“Michigan is fortunate to have countless opportunities when it comes to camping around the state,” says Tom Briggs, owner of Grand Rogue Campground and President of the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC) – Michigan. “Designating August as ‘Michigan Camping & Recreational Vehicle Month’ gives us another reason to encourage visitors to explore our woods and water recreational offerings, whether it be from a tent, pop-up, travel trailer, fifth-wheel or RV.”

The official proclamation supports the economic and recreational contributions that the camping industry contributes to Michigan’s overall tourism package:

• The State of Michigan has more than 950 licensed private recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 111,000 licensed camp sites.

• More than 160 county or government operated campgrounds with over 14,700 sites – from rustic to full-service – around the state.

• The State of Michigan is home to 98 state parks & recreation areas under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources & Environment, and 7 forests / parks / lakeshores in Michigan under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service, collectively offering 15,000 sites on state and federal lands designated for camping.

• Camping encourages visitors and locals alike to partake in activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, paddling, pedaling, geocaching, nature watching, photography, and other outdoor activities, which also highlight Michigan’s great outdoors.

• More than 40 million people camp in Michigan each year, generating more than $2 billion for the state’s economy, making it a key contributor in the state’s overall $16+ billion tourism industry, offering a true “Pure Michigan” experience.

“For generations, Michigan residents and visitors have gone ‘up north’…either literally or figuratively, to make ‘Pure Michigan’ camping memories,” says Dave Lorenz – Manager, Public & Industry Relations for Travel Michigan. “These experiences bind families as one and build a life-long tradition of appreciation for the environment.”

Michigan boasts two non-profit organizations: ARVC Michigan -- the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan and MARVAC -- the Michigan Association of Recreational Vehicles & Campgrounds, which equally promote and support private campground and RV parks throughout the state particularly by the distribution of hundreds of thousands of free camping directories at RV and outdoor shows, at statewide chambers of commerce, libraries, lawmakers offices, RV sales businesses and campgrounds. All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources & Environment, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service.

ARVC represents nearly 200 member campgrounds with more than 30,000 sites available throughout the state. Whether pitching a tent, parking an RV or reserving a rustic or modern cabin, Michigan campgrounds offer a great way to disconnect from busy lives and reconnect with families. Campers in Michigan enjoy the great outdoors while fishing or canoeing on the countless lakes, rivers and streams or hiking, biking and riding on the miles of trails that wind throughout the state. There’s definitely no shortage of activities, no matter where the campground is located.


ARVC Michigan’s mission is to lead in the development of the RV Parks and Campground industry through education, communication and representation. ARVC Michigan is a member of the National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (www.gocampingamerica.com).

www.MichCampgrounds.com | www.facebook.com/MichCampgrounds


*View the official adopted resolution online at http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2009-2010/resolutionadopted/House/pdf/2010-HAR-0315.pdf