To help "First Time Campers" be prepared for the adventure, each group will receive a "welcome kit" filled with details on what to pack, what to expect, and what to wear. 

After check-in, DNR staff will walk "First Time Campers" through the process of setting up camp and settling in for a great  Michigan adventure.  This will include information on putting up a tent, starting a campfire, and cooking on a camp stove.  While the campers won't get to keep the gear they use, Gander Mountain will be offering great discounts on everything they will be trying. 

Gear provided by Gander Mountain for each participating location:  

1 tent
1 tarp
2 camp chairs
1 flashlight
1 lantern
1 stove
4 hot dog/marshmallow cookers
2 fishing poles

Choose the Campground

To be a "First Time Camper", contact the participating park or recreation area directly.

Baraga  State Park
Park Supervisor - Dan Dowdy, 906-353-6882      

Bay City  Recreation Area
Park Supervisor - Mike Evanoff, 989-684-9141

Bewabic  State Park
Park Supervisor - Robert Strittmatter, 906-875-3324

Cheboygan  State Park
Park Supervisor - Paul Koszegi, 231-627-2811

Hayes  State Park
Park Supervisor - Tim Bauer, 517-467-7401      

Hoffmaster  State Park
Park Supervisor - Charles Ehrlich, 231-798-3711      

Holly Recreation Area
Park Supervisor - Shawn Speaker, 248-634-8811

Muskegon  State Park
Park Supervisor - Kevin Klco, 231-744-3480

Pinckney Recreation Area
Park Supervisor - Jon LaBossiere, 734-426-4913

Pontiac  Lake Recreation Area
Park Supervisor - Karis Floyd, 248-666-1020

Port  Crescent State Park
Park Supervisor - Betsy Kish, 989-738-8663

Sleeper  State Park   
Park Supervisor - George Lauinger, 989-856-4411

Traverse City  State Park
Park Supervisor - Tim Schreiner, 231-922-5270

Wells  State Park
Park Supervisor - Hector  Valdez, 906-863-9747

Young  State Park
Park Supervisor - Sue Rose, 231-582-7523

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