International Dark Sky Week starts today, and a number of Northern Michigan state parks will stay open for extended hours through Sunday, April 10 for self-guided stargazing and views of the night sky. Visitors should call ahead for individual park hours. Bring a blanket, sit back and take in the sights!
The following Northern Michigan state parks and recreation areas will stay open for night sky viewing:
- Fayette Historic State Park (Delta County), 906-644-2603
- Hartwick Pines State Park (Crawford County), 989-348-7068
- Negwegon State Park (Alpena/Alcona County), 989-724-5126
- North Higgins Lake State Park (Crawford County), 989-821-6125
- Orchard Beach State Park (Manistee County), 231-723-7422
- P.H. Hoeft State Park (Presque Isle County), 989-734-2543
- Rifle River Recreation Area (Ogemaw County), 989-473-2258
- Rockport State Recreation Area (Alpena County), 989-734-2543 **
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park (Chippewa County), 906-492-3415
- Tawas Point State Park (Iosco County), 989-362-5041
- Van Riper State Park (Marquette County), 906-339-4461
** In addition, the Besser Museum Planetarium in Alpena will host an informational program about the night sky at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 8. Program participants are welcome to visit the Rockport State Recreation Area harbor for night sky viewing afterward at 8:30 p.m. For more details, contact P.H. Hoeft State Park at 989-734-2543.
Many of these events are free to attend, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry. Find out how to get one.
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