MI State Parks Offering Free Entry Black Friday 2016 #OptOutside

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MI State Parks Offering Free Entry Black Friday 2016 #OptOutside

The Department of Natural Resources is opening up all Michigan State Parks for free access on Friday the 25th aka “Black Friday” In a joint effort with REI to promote skipping the sale lines this holiday and stepping outside either by yourself or the ones you love to enjoy the great outdoors.DNR #OptOutside Campaign

To quote the DNR’s Site:

As part of the popular day-after-Thanksgiving tradition and in the spirit of the season, the DNR hopes the free entry opportunity will encourage residents and visitors to take time to explore and enjoy Michigan’s great outdoors. There’s plenty to do, including:

  • Hiking one of more than 12,500 miles of designated state trails.

  • Fishing Michigan’s world-class lakes and streams.

  • Bicycling paved trails and roads or mountain biking across rugged terrain.

  • Hunting Michigan’s vast woods.

  • Watching diverse wildlife.

  • Reconnecting with family and friends to build new Thanksgiving traditions.

 

Started by REI, the outdoor clothing gear company #OptOutside Campaign is attempting to change the way we look at Black Friday and encourage us to get outside and spend time exploring. REI is putting their money where their mouth is as well, closing their stores Black Friday and giving all their employees a paid holiday day. REI started the campaign in 2015 and now State Parks and Non-Profit agencies across the country are joining in to offer free activities.

Both REI and the MI DNR are encouraging participants to share their experience online using the hastag #OptOutside.

It is important to know that despite the park fees being waived, this does not include camping, and as always if you go fishing you will need a fishing permit.

To find out more information you can go to the Michigan DNR’s Page : Michigan state parks offering free entry statewide

To find other events in your area check out REI’s campaign page: OptOutside

Will you be skipping the lines this Black Friday and be Opting Outside or is there a deal just too good to pass up?

Let us know!