The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is expecting a record-breaking summer at state park and forest campsites this year, with a nearly 30% increase in reservations compared to last year. This reflects a continuing trend towards outdoor recreation begun with the 2020 pandemic.  

As of March 31, 2025, 24% of campsites across the state’s 124 parks and 20 forests have already been reserved for the peak season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with the most popular destinations including those with large lakes. The increase varied by region with state parks in the southern and eastern regions seeing increases of 36% or more, with western state park campsite reservations at 14% increase. Click here to learn more.