Michigan State Parks Offering Fireworks-Free Fourth of July Camping for Veterans

The Michigan DNR has announced that for the second straight year they will join with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency to offer alternative camping options for those veterans and other visitors, including pet owners, seeking a quieter holiday.

“We are excited to partner with Michigan state parks to offer veterans and their families a way to enjoy the holiday without worry or stress,” Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director Jeff Barnes said. "Post-traumatic stress injury, also known as post-traumatic stress disorder, can occur after a person has been through a traumatic event. For some, fireworks and other loud, unexpected noises can trigger intense feelings of stress, fear or anger, and Fireworks-Free Fourth provides an alternative when celebrating our nation’s freedom.”

“We are pleased to help honor our veterans by offering alternative camping options in several of our beautiful state parks,” said DNR Parks and Recreation Division Chief Ron Olson. "This is an alternative for anyone seeking a quieter Fourth of July celebration."

Camping reservations can be made up to six months in advance at the select campgrounds which are located farther away from traditional community firework displays.

The following parks will host a Fireworks-Free Fourth of July, July 2-4:

• Bewabic State Park (Iron County)
• Brighton Recreation Area-Bishop Lake Campground (Livingston County)
• Cheboygan State Park (Cheboygan County)
• Craig Lake State Park (Baraga County)
• Hayes State Park (Lenawee County)
• Lake Hudson State Park (Lenawee County)
• Leelanau State Park (Leelanau County)
• Rifle River Recreation Area (Ogemaw County)
• Sleepy Hollow State Park (Clinton County)
• Tippy Dam Recreation Area (Manistee County)
• Wells State Park (Menominee County)

The Michigan Parks and Recreation system cannot guarantee that fireworks will not be set off near the state parks; however, the DNR encourages campers to refrain from setting off fireworks in participating state parks during this special weekend. Aerial fireworks such as Roman candles and bottle rockets are not allowed in Michigan state parks at any time, but small novelty fireworks such as fountain fireworks, sparklers and ground spinners that are typically allowed will be discouraged.