Welcome to Michigan Blue Ribbon Panel on State Parks and Outdoor Recreation website.  Michigan has over 100 state parks and recreation areas that offer residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy some of the state’s most important natural and cultural resources. 

In recognition of the fact that Michigan’s park system has changed over time, and must continue to adapt to changes in resources, user interests, and facility needs, Governor Snyder issued Executive Order 2011-10, creating a Blue Ribbon Panel on State Parks and Outdoor Recreation   The Executive Order charges the panel with:

• Identifying the role of state parks and importance of outdoor recreation areas
• Providing a vision for the future of state parks
• Recommending a strategy for the expansion and proper allocation of expected resources in order to meet the new vision of state parks
• Proposing a vision and a strategy for future consideration aimed at creating stronger linkages between the state parks system and county and local parks to maximize use and cost efficiencies

The Panel submitted its final report and recommendations to Governor Snyder on September 23, 2012. A copy of the Governor’s press release regarding the report can be found here.

Please share your thoughts about a strategic vision for Michigan’s Parks and Outdoor Recreation areas with us.