DNR’s new Central Reservation System makes it easier to reserve a harbor slip, campsite or lodging at state parks

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) new Central Reservation System (CRS) for state parks and harbors is now open for reservations of all types at www.midnrreservations.com. This more customer-friendly version of the website allows reservations up to one year in advance for lodging and six months in advance for camping and harbors. Campers are encouraged to plan ahead to get the first pick of campsites for some early spring camping, or – if outdoor camping in the spring sounds too cold – reserve a cabin, yurt or other lodging option. Now is also the time to start planning for the Memorial Day holiday weekend; Memorial Day is on May 26, 2014. The new system features pictures of the campsites and lodging at each location, and more views will continue to be added.

Campers can select sites based on camping equipment, stay dates, accessibility and electrical amperage, and view sites on a map, in a list or on a calendar. Campers who know where they want to stay can go straight to that favorite location and select sites from there. The CRS is also now mobile-friendly, making it easier than ever to make a reservation from a phone or tablet by visiting www.midnrreservations.com/Mobile/. The mobile site is perfect for reserving a site on the go, booking a last-minute stay, and for those who are familiar with the sites and don’t need a picture.

Even if dates can’t yet be reserved for a future camping trip, campers are encouraged to visit the website, create a customer profile and explore the new system. By getting familiar and setting up a username and password in advance, customers can save time later and have a better chance of getting their first choice of a campsite.