Michigan Roadside Parks Reopen April 28 for Spring Travel Season

Michigan travelers can look forward to a familiar spring tradition as the Michigan Department of Transportation prepares to reopen most roadside parks on April 28, 2025. These 85 scenic rest stops dot the state highway system, offering travelers a place to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic, and take in some of Michigan's most beautiful views.

What Are Roadside Parks?

MDOT operates roadside parks along state highways in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Many are positioned near state parks or offer stunning views of the Great Lakes. These free rest areas provide picnic tables, parking, and often drinking water (once systems are tested and turned on).

Opening Details

Most parks will reopen on Tuesday, April 28, according to MDOT. However, travelers should note that drinking water may not be available at all locations immediately. Water systems require annual testing and treatment, which typically wraps up sometime in May.

Already Open

Three roadside parks are already welcoming visitors:

• Cass River off M-46 in the Thumb region
• White Rock off M-25 in the Thumb region
• Artesian Flow off M-140 in southwest Michigan

Parks Remaining Closed

More than a dozen parks will stay closed past April 28 due to construction, maintenance, or lingering snow in northern areas. Notable closures include:

• AuGres River (bridge replacement)
• Au Train, Deer Lake, Grand Island, Kiva, and Scott Falls in Alger County (snow)
• Tioga Creek and Canyon Falls in Baraga County (snow)
• Memorial Airport in Houghton County (snow)
• Red Cedar in Ingham County (construction)
• Baldwin and Chase in Lake County (construction until May 11)
• Cut River Bridge in Mackinac County (snow)

Plan Your Visit

Travelers can check the status of any roadside park using the MDOT Roadside Parks map. The interactive map uses color-coded dots: green means open, gray means closed for the season, and red means closed for other reasons. Click any dot for details about that specific location.

Perfect for Michigan Road Trips

Whether you are heading up north for the weekend, exploring the Upper Peninsula, or simply driving across the state, these roadside parks offer a convenient and scenic way to break up your journey. Pack a lunch, bring your camera, and enjoy the views that make Michigan road trips special.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do Michigan roadside parks open for the 2025 season?
A: Most MDOT roadside parks reopen on Tuesday, April 28, 2025. Three parks (Cass River, White Rock, and Artesian Flow) are already open.

Q: How many roadside parks does Michigan have?
A: MDOT operates 85 roadside parks across Michigan's state highway system in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

Q: Where can I check if a specific roadside park is open?
A: Visit the MDOT Roadside Parks map on the Michigan Department of Transportation website. Green dots indicate open parks, gray means closed for the season, and red means closed for other reasons.