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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is temporarily adjusting camping and lodging fees at F.J. McLain State Park for the upcoming camping season, anticipating the potential unavailability of flush toilets and showers.
“Due to erosion along the campground shoreline we may not have flush toilets or showers available for the 2017 camping season,” said Jamie Metheringham, unit supervisor for McLain and Twin Lakes state parks. “For this reason, we will be charging semi-modern rates for campsites and mini-cabins.”
Water, electric, and the sanitation station will be available during this time, however short term utility interruptions may occur during construction activities, which may be occurring throughout the 2017 camping season.
“We appreciate your patience during this transition period and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” Metheringham said.
The 443-acre park is situated between Calumet and Hancock and features two miles of windswept Lake Superior beachfront. The park is located about 10 miles northwest of Hancock, off M-203.
Severe storms occurring in September 2014 and January 2015 produced erosion that ate away park roadways, utilities and large sections of embankment, forcing the closure of a dozen lakefront campsites.
Another 18 lakefront campsites, six mini-cabins and the park’s toilet and shower buildings remained threatened with closure because of the continued erosion.
In August 2016, park staff held an open house to present park master plan options in response to the continued loss of infrastructure by Lake Superior wave action. The approved plan will provide a template for future development and infrastructure replacement over the next 60 years.
Construction work on the initial phase of park repairs is scheduled to begin in spring.
Visitors to F.J. McLain State Park can enjoy a variety of activities in the park ranging from fishing, windsurfing, berry picking and beachcombing to camping, rock hounding, sight-seeing and hunting. The sunsets at McLain State Park are spectacular and the view of the lighthouse is magnificent.
Check out an F.J. McLain State Park visitors guide.
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For more information on Michigan’s state parks, visit the DNR’s webpage.
