DNR April inspirations: Things to do, ways to help

by | Apr 8, 2025 | Recreation

 
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April inspirations: Things to do, ways to help

Whether you want to get outdoors, enjoy a new destination or support your favorite natural and cultural resources, April offers options around the state. Upcoming classes, programs and volunteer opportunities include:

Nature hiking, beekeeping, trails expo and more

sun breaks through the trees on a narrow forested trail that winds along a small river. Tiny green plant, tree shoots sprout on forest floor

  • Signs of Spring Hike – Ludington State Park (Saturday, April 12). What better way to observe the first signs of spring – budding trees, emerging plants and the return of migrating birds – than on a 1.5-mile hike over easy terrain at one Michigan’s most beautiful spots?
  • Beekeeping Clinic – Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center (Saturday, April 12 or Saturday, April 26). Whether you’re new to beekeeping or looking to expand your knowledge about these vital pollinators, this daylong class in Cadillac is for you. We’ll cover everything from bee biology and equipment to bee health and seasonal tasks.
  • Trails Expo – Outdoor Adventure Center (Saturday, April 26). The Outdoor Adventure Center in Detroit is celebrating its neighborhood rail with this event on the Dequindre Cut. Learn tips and tricks for hitting the trails from local experts in hiking, biking, paddling and more, then test out your skills in hands-on workshops.

Show state parks some love at stewardship workdays

about a dozen state park stewardship volunteers dressed in long sleeves, jeans and other outdoor gear walk down a forested pathSeveral state parks in southern Michigan will host stewardship workdays, where volunteers help remove invasive plants that threaten high-quality ecosystems. It’s a great way to get outside and feel good about doing good!

Upcoming workdays are planned at:

Follow the volunteer stewardship calendar for future work dates at state parks.

Find an adventure

Not sure what you feel like doing? Check out the DNR events calendar for programs near you and around the state, or try our Things to Do page for your next outdoor recreation inspiration.

Lend a hand

From habitat help and forest cleanup to community science and campground hosting, there are many ways to help the places and resources you love! Get ideas at  Michigan.gov/DNRVolunteers.

More than a week after the severe northern Michigan storms, many of our friends and neighbors are still without power or access to their homes. As communities work to clean up the damage, there are ways you can help, too. Visit Michigan.gov/IceStorm for volunteer/donation info.