Pets In Campgrounds


Thursday, February 26, 2009

With few exceptions, pets are welcomed in Michigan state parks, recreation areas and at boating access sites, but they must be accompanied at all times by responsible owners. Please remember that these public places are strange environments for your pet. It may react much differently here than at home. Children are attracted to pets and we have many injuries reported involving pets which normally are very gentle.

Pets are not allowed on designated beaches or areas used for wading or swimming. This rule is strictly enforced. Traverse City State Park and Baraga State Park have established pet-free portions of their campground. At Baraga State Park, 19 campsites have this designation. At Traverse City State Park, the south central campground loop has been designated pet-free.

Following are guidelines all pet owners are required to follow:
  • Never leave your pet unattended in your vehicle, in your camper or at your campsite.
  • Always keep your pet on a leash which must not exceed six feet in length.
  • Don't take your pet to the beach.
  • Wrap your dog's droppings in newspaper or plastic bag and discard it in a trash bin.
  • If you walk your dog, do it in an isolated part of the park.
  • Don't allow your pet to run loose at any time.
  • Don't allow your pet to be noisy. Barking dogs are a source of many complaints.
  • For your protection make sure your pet has rabies shots.
  • Don't tie your pet outside unless you are with the pet and can control it.
  • Pets are not allowed inside park buildings such as mini cabins, shower buildings or rustic cabins.


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What Do You Mean By Camping?


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

RecML, the recreation standard that is being developed, describes camping as:

camping in developed sites, resorts, cabins; primitive camping, backpacking, overnight camping, modern camping; and camping in yurts, teepees, tipis, and tents

There is nothing quite like spending an evening away from home at one of America's thousands of public land recreational area campsites. Whether you seek the solitude of a backcountry camping site or a convenient place for you and your family to pitch a tent or park an RV, there are plenty of places to camp in our parks, national seashores, lakeshores, forests, and wilderness areas.

Campsite fees, visitation fees and seasonal restrictions vary from site to site. In some cases, campsites can be reserved in advance. For detailed information on a particular location, please contact that recreation site directly.

Practice Good Stewardship of our Public Lands:

You can help to take good care of our public lands so that others may enjoy these areas for years to come by practicing some of the following actions:

Don't Litter... take along a trash bag or other receptacle for collecting your trash so that you can deposit it in the proper trash receptacle.

Make sure that you are using the correct type of camping equipment permitted in that area. Check with your destination ahead of time for seasonal fire or campstove restrictions that may be in place.

Don't camp in areas where you are not permitted. These areas have been declared "off limits" to campers to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety.

Safety While Camping:
  • Check with local park, forest, or public lands agents to see what precautions need to be taken in regard to storing food away from wildlife
  • Do not feed the local wildlife
  • Take precautions against camping in an area that may be dangerous in the case of sudden flash floods. Check with local rangers to find a safe and legal camping area
  • Remember to take along non-perishable food that won't make you ill if it spoils
  • Be courteous and remember that you are sharing public lands with other campers and recreationists
  • Do not camp on unauthorized areas
  • Bring along extra safety items such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cellphone or radio


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Youth Camping Program


Sunday, February 22, 2009

The great outdoors. There's nothing like it. Washington state parks offer recreation opportunities in all kinds of settings, from beautiful seascapes and deep forest campgrounds to mountain trails, lakes and canyons. Visit state parks to experience the joys of outdoor recreation, by hiking and camping, biking and boating, swimming, skiing, windsurfing - or just relaxing and unwinding with nature all around you.

The Washington State Park and Recreation Commission encourages everyone to get out and enjoy their state parks. The Inside Out Program was designed to ensure that everyone - even those who have not yet discovered a connection with nature - feels welcome to get out and enjoy, explore and experience parks. The mission of Inside Out is to encourage all cultures to enjoy the great outdoors. Recent studies have indicated that people of color may more often experience cultural barriers and accessibility issues that mean they are less likely to visit parks. African American people are the most underrepresented as visitors to state parks. The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is committed to ensure a legacy of state parks for all.

Inside Out provides opportunities for participants to enjoy the variety of activities and experiences available in state parks. The program also promotes stewardship and highlights parks, recreation and natural resources career options.

Participants sign a three-year contract with Washington State Parks and agree to participate in three overnight trips a year that will include a variety of activities. Staff work with participants to discuss interests, choose activities, set trip dates and coordinate travel. Participants may decide to take trips on their own, as well. Trips are scheduled in different seasons to highlight year-round experiences available in state parks.


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Boating Program


Thursday, February 19, 2009

The waters of Washington state are a national and international resource. Recreationally and commercially, these waters contribute to the well-being of residents of the Pacific Northwest. To help maintain this valuable resource, it is essential that all users of these waters, including recreational boaters, recognize their role in keeping these waters clean. Additionally, it's important that boaters operate their vessels in a safe manner to protect themselves and others from needless accidents and injuries.

The State Parks boating program promotes enjoyable, safe, environmentally responsible recreation on Washington's waters in partnership with government, business, educators, citizen action groups and the boating public. Program activities are guided by a citizen advisory committee and, where possible, all boating safety activities occur at the county and city levels. The program provides assistance in training, equipment and materials to local groups in carrying out a network of boating safety education and law enforcement activities.On a statewide basis, the program conducts a targeted boating safety information program intended to increase the safety awareness of specific groups of boaters. The program also works with the U.S. Coast Guard and other states to ensure reciprocity of boating regulations for ease of travel by boaters when crossing state and national boundaries.


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Weekend Events-Fishing


Tuesday, February 17, 2009

For many, the annual Free Fishing Weekend has become a tradition a time to get together and have some fishing fun. While some may find time to reflect while fishing, there are no limits to variations on a great theme! Michigan offers some of the finest freshwater fishing in the world, with more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, over 11,037 inland lakes and 36,350 miles of rivers and streams. Included are 12,000 miles of trout waters, for which approximately 1,000 miles are considered Michigan's finest blue ribbon trout mainstreams. So grab a pole and your family and friends, and let's go fishing!

Pass on the Fishing Tradition

Experienced anglers who offer a child or young adult the chance to take their first fishing trip can provide a rewarding experience for all. People who fish tend to understand the natural aquatic network of plants and animals that help to sustain fish.

A day spent fishing can offer the opportunity for one generation to pass on their experience with a new generation of anglers.Research shows that young people today do not have access to fishing opportunities that once enjoyed. Some of the reasons: living in urban or suburban areas where fishing access is not readily available, competition for time by an ever-increasing schedule of special activies, and too little time for unstructured leisure.

Taking "time out" by fishing can be a great way to offset some of the many challenges and stresses that we all seem to be faced with today. Sometimes just being some where away from the fast pace of life even if just for a few hours can provide a new perspective and a fresh outlook.

Have a Great Time With Friends and Family Plan Your Own Special Fishing Trip!

For many, the annual Free Fishing Weekend has become a tradition a time to get together and have some fishing fun. While some may find time to reflect while fishing, there are no limits to variations on a great theme! Many have found this special weekend to be a good time for a reunion with friends and family with fishing and fun a great combination for all!


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Gas Savings Camper Event


Sunday, February 15, 2009

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Gas Savings Camper Storage Program.

Michigan state park and recreation officials announced a new program this camping season that will offer campers the opportunity to save on fuel costs by temporarily storing their camping trailer or recreational vehicle at specified state parks or recreation areas in-between their camping stays. Storage of the camping units will be free, but are limited to 15 days at a time.

We know that higher fuel prices will make it challenging for some of our campers to "GO-Get Outdoors" as often this summer to enjoy their favorite state park or recreation area campground. This program will allow campers to save over 30% on fuel by leaving their camping trailer, motor home, or boat and trailer up north rather than driving or trailering it back and forth from home.

Campers wishing to take advantage of this program will need to show proof of a recent (within one week) camping stay at a Michigan state park or recreation area.


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General Information About Camping


Wednesday, February 11, 2009

  • Michigan is known for its unpredictable weather. Check the weather forecast for the area.
  • Plan your trip--know about the area and how to get there.
  • Take enough food, clothing, and equipment to keep you comfortable in case of emergency.
  • Notify others of where you will be, and when you plan to be home, in case someone needs to find you.
  • If you are a beginning camper, contact your local camping outfitter for a general checklist of camping equipment.
Personal Safety
  • Prevent animals from getting into your food. Consider placing it in your vehicle, or hanging it in a tree (12' high, 4' from tree trunk).
  • State forest campground wells are approved by Michigan Department of Public Health.
  • Keep a few logs in your tent to keep them dry.
  • Always bring extra matches.
Reminders:
  • Be careful with your campfire -- keep it small.
  • Be a good neighbor -- control your noise and animals.
  • Be respectful of your state forest -- keep the trees and shrubs alive and growing.
  • Always keep your dog on a leash no longer that 6 feet, and away from public swimming areas.
The 'No Impact' Camper follows these guidelines to insure that today's forest and campground resources are available to tomorrow's users:
  • If you carry it in, please carry it out. This will eliminate litter.
  • Camp in a designated campsite within designated campgrounds, unless you have obtained an undesignated camping permit.
  • Protect water sources from contamination.
  • Use biodegradeable soap, or try hot water soapless dishwashing, bathing and clothes washing.
  • When using soap (even biodegradeable) and toothpaste, do so at least 100' away from natural water sources and well or faucet water sources.
  • Prevent forest fires.
  • Keep fires small.
  • Have water available to extinguish the fire properly.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Maintain a 10' diameter and debris-free area around the fire.
  • Make sure ashes are cold when you leave a fire.


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Park Fun For Kids


Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Consult Rocky Mountain National Park's official newspaper for details and times of ranger programs designed for children.

Stop by the Fall River Visitor Center, where childen can explore animal skins, ranger uniforms and other items in the "Discovery Room."

Take the Web Ranger Challenge in the Just for Kids section of the Rocky Mountain National Park Heart of the Rockies website.

Become a Junior Ranger! Stop at one of our visitor centers to pick up a book with park activities. Complete a series of activities during your park visit, share the answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger badge.


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Regular Physical Activities


Thursday, February 5, 2009

The new Activity Guidelines for Americans state that an active lifestyle can lower your risk of early death from a variety of causes. There is strong evidence that regular physical activity can also lower your risk of:

  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Unhealthy cholesterol levels
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Colon cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Falls
  • Depression

Regular activity can help prevent unhealthy weight gain and also help with weight loss, when combined with lower calorie intake. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can lower your risk for many diseases. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, breathing problems, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea (breathing problems while sleeping), and some cancers.

Regular physical activity can also improve your cardiorespiratory (heart, lungs, and blood vessels) and muscular fitness. For older adults, activity can improve mental function.

Physical activity may also help:

  • Improve functional health for older adults
  • Reduce waistline size
  • Lower risk of hip fracture
  • Lower risk of lung cancer
  • Lower risk of endometrial cancer
  • Maintain weight after weight loss
  • Increase bone density
  • Improve sleep quality

For more information:
https://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/physical-activity.cfm#a


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Aqua Day Camps


Tuesday, February 3, 2009

DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Aqua Day Camps offers your child the opportunity to learn basic levels of swimming and water safety skills according to the American Red Cross standards. This camp helps participants stay physically fit and to feel comfortable in the water in a safe environment.

DPR will host five, two - week sessions. Camps operate Monday to Friday, 9 am - 5 pm and are open to youth ages 6 to 13 years old.

Sessions and Locations - Summer 2009

Session - Location
1 - Takoma Aquatic Center, 300 Van Buren St., NW
2 - Fort Lincoln Outdoor Pool, 3201 Fort Lincoln Dr., NE
3 - Anacostia Outdoor Pool, 1800 Anacostia Dr., SE
4 - Kenilworth Parkside Outdoor Pool, 4300 Anacostia Ave., NE
5 - Turkey Thicket Aquatic Center, 1100 Michigan Avenue


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