“Summertime on Old Mission” means Fresh Water, Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Jolly Pumpkin

There’s something about getting out on the waters of Northern Michigan – a ritual, a tradition, a culture, a passion, a lifestyle! “Summertime on Old Mission” – the third in a 3-video collaborative series* from Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC) – focuses on the popular activity of stand up paddleboarding (SUP), on the clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay.

Filmmaker Evan Joling has teamed up once again with Michigan artist/singer/songwriter Jetty Rae for this soothing 1:44-minute video highlighting a group of paddleboarders enjoying a leisurely afternoon on the water. You can view the video online here.

“Ron and Laurie Jeffries of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales have been avid paddleboarders before the sport even made it to the mainland,” says Jon Carlson, who along with Ron Jeffries, Greg Lobdell and Mike Hall is a managing partner of NUBC. “From their trips to Hawaii for beer festivals and amazing collaborative beer initiatives, they fell in love with this graceful sport. Paddleboarding is now extremely popular on the Great Lakes and nothing is more relaxing than heading out on the waters at Bowers Harbor, either before or after visiting Jolly Pumpkin.”

When he’s not actively brewing his award-winning Belgian-style beers, Ron Jeffries has been known to craft custom paddleboards – which he and Laurie use on those rare occasions when they’re able to escape the brewery for some well-deserved quiet time.

Several local outfitters in the Traverse City area offer SUP rentals, for those who don’t have their own equipment. Many often deliver for free. Other companies offer group excursions as well. For a list of such companies, visit TraverseCity.com.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales is part of Northern United Brewing Co., which also encompasses the North Peak and Grizzly Peak craft beer brands, as well as the Civilized line of spirits and the Mission Table restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices. Find NUBC products at stores, restaurants, and bars all throughout Michigan, including: North Peak Brewing Company, Mission Table and Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, all in Traverse City; Jolly Pumpkin and Grizzly Peak, in Ann Arbor.

2319 Bishop Circle East
Dexter, MI 48130
(734) 426-4962
www.JollyPumpkin.com
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkin
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkin

311 S. Main Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 913-2730
www.JollyPumpkin.com/AnnArbor
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkinA2
www.twitter.com/JollyPumpkinA2

13512 Peninsula Drive (Old Mission Peninsula)
Traverse City, MI 49696
(231) 223-4333
www.JollyPumpkin.com/TraverseCity
www.facebook.com/JollyPumpkinTC

NORTHERN UNITED BREWING COMPANY VIDEO SERIES:

1. “Summer in Northern Michigan” from filmmaker Evan Joling and featuring singer/songwriter Jetty Rae, M22 and the Broneah Brothers, and North Peak Beer, available for online viewing here.

2. “Farm-to-Table” from filmmaker Evan Joling and featuring music by Michigan singer/songwriter Danny Kline, available for online viewing here.

Find ARVC Michigan’s Annual Private Campground Directory at these Consumer Shows in 2013

Each year, the Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds of Michigan (ARVC Michigan) attends a variety of consumer shows around the state – and beyond – to share information about its member campgrounds and the outdoor recreation industry. This year, nearly 20 shows are on the schedule including a handful in partnership with the West Michigan Tourist Association,* where ARVC Michigan will distribute its annual directory. The publication will also be available at 25 shows via Anderson Brochure Distribution Service.

The 2013 show schedule includes:

January

17-20 - Family RV Show MSU Pavilion, East Lansing
17-20 - Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show
24-27 - Toledo Camping & RV Show
26-27 - Chicago Travel & Adventure Show*
31-Feb 3 - Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show

February

1-3 - Mid Michigan Woman's Expo, Lansing*
1-3 - Hamilton RV Show Freelton, Ontario
7-10 - Detroit Camper & RV Show Novi
13-17 - Chicago RV Camping Show
21-24 - Outdoorama, Novi*

March

7-10 - Battle Creek Camper & RV Show
8-10 - West Michigan Woman's Expo, Grand Rapids*
14-17 - Flint Camper & RV Show
21-24 - Traverse City Northeast Camper & RV Show
21-24 - Ultimate Sports Show, Grand Rapids*

May

2-5 - International Women's Show, Novi*
 
ARVC-Michigan will also distribute literature at these shows, via Anderson Brochure Distribution Service:

Jan. 9-13 - Ohio RV Super show Cleveland, OH
Jan. 11-13 - Washington DC Expo Chantilly, VA
Jan. 11-13 - Lehigh Valley RV Show Allentown, PA
Jan. 12-20 - Pittsburgh RV Show Pittsburgh, PA
Jan. 15-20 - Florida RV Super show Tampa, FL
Jan. 17-20 - Toronto RV Show Toronto, Canada
Jan. 18-20 - New Jersey Camping Show Edison, NJ
Jan. 25-27 - North Carolina RVDA RV Show Charlotte, NC
Jan. 25-27 - Atlanta Camping &RV Show Atlanta, GA
Jan 31-Feb. 3 - Boston RV &Camping Expo Boston, MA
Feb. 2-10 - Eastern Sports &Travel Show Harrisburg, PA
Feb. 7-10 - Erie RV &Camping Spectacular Erie, PA
Feb. 8-10 - Richmond RV &Camping Expo Richmond, VA
Feb. 15-18 - Springfield RV Camping Show Springfield, MA
Feb. 15-18 - Northeast RV Show Suffern, NY
Feb.15-17 - Maryland RV Dealers Assoc. Show Timonium, MD
Feb. 22-24 - Maryland RV Dealers Assoc. Show Timonium, MD
Feb. 28-Mar. 3 - Central NYRV &Camping Show Syracuse, NY
Mar. 1-3 - Ottawa Show Ottawa, Canada
Mar. 1-3 - Greater Philadelphia RV Show Oaks, PA
Mar. 7-10 - Montreal International RV Show Montreal, Canada
Mar. 8-10 - Campers World RV Show York, PA
Mar. 21-24 - Quebec International RV Show Quebec, Canada
Apr. 5-7 - Vacationland RV and Camping Show Portland, ME
Sept. 9-15 - Pennsylvania RV &Camping Expo Hershey, PA

ARVC Michigan represents nearly 170 member campgrounds with more than 25,000 sites available throughout the state. These private campgrounds are promoted in an annual Michigan Campground Directory, available at various locations statewide, including all Welcome Centers. 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 and Campgrounds. (www.gocampingamerica.com).

www.MichCampgrounds.com www.Facebook.com/MichCampgrounds

Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds-Michigan Names Lori Tews as New Executive Director

The Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC) - Michigan has named Lori Tews as its new Executive Director. Tews has more than nine years professional experience, including more than six years in association management.

“As an association professional my focus has been in membership recruitment and retention, program and project management, governance, and budget development and forecasting,” says Tews.

Tews previously served as membership manager for the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), a 7,200 member dental specialty association. While in this role, she increased chapter participation in a dues collection program and managed the production of the annual directory. Prior to the AAE, she worked for CFA Society of Chicago, working closely with the CEO and leadership to enhance the usability of the member website, membership recruitment, and managed the logistics for more than 40 events per year. Her career in association management all began at the American Medical Association Foundation, where she worked with the Executive Director on governance issues and served as liaison between the AMA and the AMA Foundation.

A native of Bay City, MI, Tews holds a Bachelors of Arts in Communication from Saginaw Valley State University and has completed eight graduate courses that will lead to a Masters of Nonprofit Administration from North Park University in Chicago, IL.

“As a child I spent numerous weekends camping, fishing and trail riding on ATV's,” says Tews. “I am so glad to be back in Michigan where I can experience all the beauty and wonders of this great state, but this time through adult eyes. I am very excited to be joining ARVC Michigan as the Executive Director. I look forward to meeting all of you and working with you to achieve the goals toward continued success of the association.”

ARVC-Michigan represents nearly 170 member campgrounds with more than 25,000 sites available throughout the state. These private campgrounds are promoted in an annual Michigan Campground Directory, available at various locations statewide, including all Welcome Centers. ARVC’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.MichCampgrounds.com
www.Facebook.com/MichCampgrounds

Governor Snyder Declares July “Michigan Camping & Recreational Vehicle Month”

For generations, Michigan has welcomed campers and RVers to its natural woodlands, freshwater shorelines and beaches, in two distinct peninsulas–nestled in the middle of the Great Lakes Region.

For the second year in a row, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has declared a “Michigan Camping & Recreation Vehicle Month,” to be held in July—following last year’s success in the month of August. Camping is a key contributor to the state’s $17 billion tourism industry. The declaration supports the economic and recreational contributions that the camping industry provides to Michigan’s overall tourism, as well as promoting camping as an inexpensive and family-friendly recreation option year-round in our state.

Both Michiganders and visitors alike take advantage of the 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 recreation–making it the ultimate Pure Michigan experience!

Michigan has more than 950 licensed, private, recreation vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 111,000 licensed campsites. The state has more than 160 county or government operated campgrounds with over 14,700 sites–from rustic to full-service. Michigan also boasts over 307,000 licensed recreational vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers. In Michigan, first quarter 2012 RV sales are up 18 percent from the first quarter of 2011, and sales are projected to increase throughout 2012.

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

Michigan is home to 102 state parks and recreation areas–as well as 134 state forest campgrounds–under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and seven forests/parks/lakeshores in Michigan under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. Collectively, Michigan offers 15,000 sites on state and federal lands designated for camping.

Michigan’s two non-profit camping organizations: MARVAC–the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles & Campgrounds and ARVC Michigan–the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan, equally promote and support private campgrounds and RV parks throughout the state.

All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service. All campgrounds–including the companion recreational activities–are among the tourism destinations promoted by Travel Michigan and its award-winning Pure Michigan campaign.

www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com

Kick Off Summer at a Pure Michigan Campground

Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds Invites Families to Rediscover Michigan Camping During Upcoming Memorial Weekend

Travelers looking for destinations and activities that will stretch their minds and imaginations, without stretching their wallets, are invited to rediscover Michigan camping this summer. Camping is ranked the #1 outdoor vacation activity in the United States by the Travel Industry Association of America.

There are plenty of camp sites – for tenters, RVers and cabin-dwellers – available at private campgrounds throughout both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas for the upcoming Memorial holiday weekend. Below, nearly three dozen campgrounds are reporting in with availability, including:

Berwagana Campground, Vassar (989-673-7125)
Clementz's Northcountry Campground, Newberry (906-293-8562)
Crystal Lake Campground, Ludington/Scottville (231-757-4510)
Drew's Country Camping, Holland (616-399-1886)
Drummond Island RV Park, Drummond Island (877-493-5445)
Gaylord KOA, Gaylord (800-562-4146)
Hidden Hill Family Campground, Harrison (989-539-9372)
Holiday Camping Resort, New Era (231-861-5220)
Holiday Park Campground, Traverse City (231-943-4410)
Indian River RV Resort & Campground, Indian River (888-792-2267)
Irons RV Park & Campground, Irons (231-266-2070)
Kalkaska RV Park & Campground, Kalkaska (231-258-9863)
Kampvilla RV Park, Bear Lake (800-968-0027)
Lake Leelanau RV Park, Lake Leelanau (231-256-7236)
Lakeview UM Campground, Lakeview (989-352-6896)
Leisure Time Campground, Irons (800-266-8214)
Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping, Mackinaw City (231-436-5584)
Matson's Big Manistee River Campground, Manistee (888-556-2424)
Myers Lake Campground, Byron (810-266-4511)
Oak Grove Resort Campground, Holland (616-399-9230)
Paint River Hills Campground, Crystal Falls (906-875-4977)
Pickerel Lakeside Campground, Bitely (231-745-7268)
Sharp Park Campground, Middleville (269-795-3846)
Snow Lake Kampground, Fenwick (989-248-3224)
South Haven Family Campground, South Haven (269-637-6153)
Traverse City KOA, Buckley (231-269-3203)
Troll Landing Camp. & Canoe Rental, West Branch (989-345-7260)
Twin Oaks Campground & Cabins, Wellston (877-442-3102)
Vacation Trailer Park, Benzonia (231-882-5101)
Waterways Campground, Cheboygan (888-882-7066)
Wooded Acres Family Campground, Houghton Lake (989-422-3413)
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Indian River (231-238-8259)

Type and date(s) of site availability vary by property. This is not an all-inclusive list. This list includes campgrounds that responded back to a survey indicating availability, as of May 23, 2012. Availability subject to change. Reservations are required.

ARVC represents some 180 member campgrounds with nearly 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.

The 2012 Michigan Campground Directory, published by ARVC – Michigan, is now available at various locations statewide, including all Welcome Centers. A PDF version is also available for viewing online at www.MichCampgrounds.com. The directory not only lists campgrounds by region, but also includes helpful information on the type of sites available, various amenities such as restroom, laundry and dumping station facilities; recreational offerings such as pools and golf courses; and seasons of operation. Campgrounds that now offer wireless internet access onsite are also identified.


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.facebook.com/MichCampgrounds
www.twitter.com/MichCampgrounds

Governor Snyder Declares August “Michigan Camping & RV Month”

For generations, Michigan has welcomed campers and RVers to its natural woodlands, freshwater shorelines and beaches, in two distinct peninsulas – nestled in the middle of the Great Lakes Region.

In honor of such tradition, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, along with several legislators, has declared August as “Michigan Camping & Recreation Vehicle Month.” Camping is a key contributor to the state’s $17 billion tourism industry. The declaration supports the economic and recreational contributions that the camping industry contributes to Michigan’s overall tourism.

Both Michiganders and visitors alike take advantage of the 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 recreation–making it the ultimate Pure Michigan experience!

Michigan has more than 950 licensed private recreation vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 111,000 licensed campsites. The state has more than 160 county or government operated campgrounds with over 14,700 sites–from rustic to full-service. Michigan also boasts over 300,000 licensed recreation vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers. In 2010, Michigan ranked third in the nation in new recreation vehicle sales.

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

Michigan is home to 98 state parks and recreation areas–as well as 133 state forest campgrounds–under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and seven forests/parks/lakeshores in Michigan under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. Collectively, Michigan offers 15,000 sites on state and federal lands designated for camping.

Michigan’s two non-profit camping organizations: ARVC Michigan–the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan and MARVAC–the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles & Campgrounds equally promote and support private campground and RV parks throughout the state.

All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service. All campgrounds – including the companion recreational activities – are among the tourism destinations promoted by Travel Michigan and its award-winning Pure Michigan campaign.

www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com

Governor Snyder & Michigan Legislators Recognize 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 Governor Rick Snyder, along with Representative Frank Foster (R – Pellston) and Senator Goeff Hansen (R – Hart) will declare August as “Michigan Camping & Recreation Vehicle Month”. Resolutions will be introduced on Wednesday, June 22 (10:30am in the Senate; 1:30pm in the House with a news conference at Noon in rooms 402-403 of the Michigan State Capitol Building.

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 – making it the ultimate Pure Michigan experience!

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

• Camping is a key contributor in the state’s overall $17+ billion Pure Michigan tourism industry.
• The State of Michigan has more than 950 licensed private recreation 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 and recreation areas – as well as 133 state forest campgrounds – under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources 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.
• Michigan has over 300,000 licensed recreational vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers. In 2010, Michigan ranked third in new recreation vehicle sales behind Texas and California.
• Camping encourages visitors and locals alike to partake in activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, paddling, pedaling, golfing, geocaching, nature watching, photography, and other outdoor activities, which also highlight Michigan’s great outdoors.

Governor Snyder has been an outspoken advocate for the Pure Michigan campaign since before he was elected, making it a major point of discussion on his campaign trail. Representative Foster is the chair of the Natural Resources, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation Committee. Senator Hansen chairs the Outdoor Recreation & Tourism Committee.

Michigan boasts two non-profit organizations: ARVC Michigan – the Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds of Michigan and MARVAC – the Michigan Association of Recreation 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, campgrounds and the State of Michigan Travel Information Centers.

All state lands are managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, while the national parks and lakeshores are managed by the National Park Service and/or the U.S. Forest Service. All campgrounds – including the companion recreational activities – are among the tourism destinations promoted via Travel Michigan and its award-winning Pure Michigan campaign.

www.MichiganCampingAndRVMonth.com
www.MichCampgrounds.com
www.MARVAC.org
www.Michigan.org
www.Michigan.gov/DNR

Michigan Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds Names Tracie “Tate” Fisher as Executive Director

Tracie Fisher, Certified Park Operator (CPO), has been named executive director of the Michigan Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC). The owner and creator of Tate Fisher Marketing and Campground Manager Today, Tracie will return to her home state of Michigan from Flagstaff, AZ, to head up the organization which represents more than 180 member campgrounds around the state.

“Tracie’s ideas, contacts, strong leadership and knowledge of our industry make her the ideal person for this job,” says Tim Wilcox, ARVC-Michigan Vice President. “She, along with our Board of Directors, will be steering the ARVC Michigan ship into new directions in the coming months and years.”

A life-long camper, Tracie began working in the industry in 2004 when she was hired as the office manager for Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping in Mackinaw City, MI, a position she held for three years. She also served two years as secretary for ARVC-Michigan and during that time attended the National School of RV Park and Campground Management to earn her CPO designation. She also has an Associates Degree in Accounting from North Central Michigan College and is currently working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities from Northern Arizona University.

“My professional years in the camping industry have taught me about the unseen sweat equity invested by owners in running their RV parks and campgrounds,” Tracie says. “Admittedly, I have a ‘soft spot’ for park owners and the challenges they face. I look forward to working with them on an individual level and also strengthening our overall camping industry here in Michigan.”

In 2007, Tracie formed Tate Fisher Marketing – a consulting firm which provides website development, search engine optimization and social media management services for park owners and organizations – including ARVC-Michigan and a handful of its members.

Although her address over the past three years hasn’t been inside Michigan, Tracie has maintained a relationship with ARVC-Michigan by developing and maintaining the organization’s .org member website; assisting with administrative operations of the association’s social media channels; and attending annual conventions to lead sessions, gather video footage and offer tips to member campgrounds about website and social media opportunities.

In 2009, Tracie began teaching website and social media related classes at the National School of RV Park and Campground Management. In 2010, she was appointed to the advisory board of the first-ever Virtual Outdoor Hospitality Expo, assisting exhibitors in setting up their booths and administering booths for ARVC-Michigan and the National School of RV Parks and Campground Management.

“I am thrilled to have been selected as ARVC Michigan’s new Executive Director,” says Tracie. “These are challenging times but I look forward to implementing a new plan, moving ARVC Michigan forward and creating real value for its members. I believe communication is key to getting things done and I will be maintaining a Facebook page for that purpose - to talk with members – on a regular basis.”

ARVC represents more than 180 member campgrounds with more than 30,000 sites available throughout the state. The mission of ARVC-Michigan is to lead in the development of the RV Park and Campground industry through education, communication and representation.

ARVC-Michigan seeks to promote an innovative, growing campground industry that is continuously striving to reach new heights in hospitality, professional skills, education and service to meet the needs of the camping public. Members are devoted to providing quality family recreation while addressing vital member concerns via collaboration and connection with other state, regional and national recreation interest. the association is ultimately committed to excellence and leadership for the future of the Michigan campground and recreation industry.

www.MichCampgrounds.com
www.Facebook.com/MichCampgrounds

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