The Department of Natural Resources reminds users of Michigan state parks, recreation areas and harbors that reservations are now being accepted for the 2010 summer camping and boating season. Reservations for harbor slips, campsites, cabins, teepees, and yurts are now available on-line or through the central reservation system call center for dates beginning as early as Memorial Day weekend.

“Campsite reservations become available six months in advance of your requested arrival date, so we are already accepting reservations booking campsites for as early as the Memorial Day weekend,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “Staff at the reservation call center begin taking phone calls at 8 a.m. on weekdays and at 9 a.m. on weekends. New site availability dates roll into the database at those times to be fair to all users.”

Campers and boaters who are planning their vacations are reminded to make their reservations now to secure a campsite or slip at their favorite park, recreation area, harbor or marina. Also, while planning your vacations, check out the calendar of events at www.michigan.gov/dnrgogetoutdoors, and select “GO-Get Outdoors,” to see what events are being planned in 2010 at your favorite state park, recreation area or harbor. This calendar is updated as events are finalized.

Also, for those winter outdoor enthusiasts, there are state parks and recreation areas that remain open for winter camping or outdoor recreation year-round. Some offer rustic camping with no amenities, while others offer semi-modern campsites with site electricity available. Some parks have cabins, mini-cabins, lodges or yurts available to rent all year, and the cabins are mostly heated with wood or propane stoves. So GO-Get Outdoors and enjoy nature year-round.

Reservations can be made on-line at www.midnrreservations.com, or by contacting the DNR central reservation system at 800-447-2757.