Fireworks-Free Fourth of July Returning to Many Michigan State Parks

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration and fireworks, but many veterans seek an alternative to the loud fireworks displays this time of year.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency are working together to provide alternative camping options for veterans and others, including pet owners, who are seeking a quieter 4th of July.

Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director James Robert Redford said. "Post-traumatic stress injury, also known as post-traumatic stress disorder, can occur after a person has been through a traumatic event. For some, fireworks and other loud, unexpected noises can trigger intense feelings of stress, fear or anger, and fireworks-free Fourth provides an alternative when celebrating our nation’s freedom.”

The following parks will host fireworks-free Fourth of July camping from July 1 - July 4:

• Bewabic State Park (Iron County)
• Brighton Recreation Area-Bishop Lake Campground (Livingston County)
• Cheboygan State Park (Cheboygan County)
• Craig Lake State Park (Baraga County)
• Hayes State Park (Lenawee County)
• Lake Hudson Recreation Area (Lenawee County)
• Leelanau State Park (Leelanau County)
• Rifle River Recreation Area (Ogemaw County)
• Sleepy Hollow State Park (Clinton County)
• Tippy Dam Recreation Area (Manistee County)
• Wells State Park (Menominee County)

Participating campgrounds are located farther away from traditional community firework displays, however, the DNR cannot guarantee that fireworks will not be set off near the state parks.