• Michigan is known for its unpredictable weather. Check the weather forecast for the area.
• Plan your trip--know about the area and how to get there.
• Take enough food, clothing, and equipment to keep you comfortable in case of emergency.
• Notify others of where you will be, and when you plan to be home, in case someone needs to find you.
• If you are a beginning camper, contact your local camping outfitter for a general checklist of camping equipment.

Personal Safety

• Prevent animals from getting into your food. Consider placing it in your vehicle, or hanging it in a tree (12' high, 4' from tree trunk).
• State forest campground wells are approved by Michigan Department of Public Health.
• Keep a few logs in your tent to keep them dry.
• Always bring extra matches.

Reminders:

• Be careful with your campfire -- keep it small.
• Be a good neighbor -- control your noise and animals.
• Be respectful of your state forest -- keep the trees and shrubs alive and growing.
• Always keep your dog on a leash no longer that 6 feet, and away from public swimming areas.

The 'No Impact' Camper follows these guidelines to insure that today's forest and campground resources are available to tomorrow's users:

• If you carry it in, please carry it out. This will eliminate litter.
• Camp in a designated campsite within designated campgrounds, unless you have obtained an undesignated camping permit.
• Protect water sources from contamination.
• Use biodegradeable soap, or try hot water soapless dishwashing, bathing and clothes washing.
• When using soap (even biodegradeable) and toothpaste, do so at least 100' away from natural water sources and well or faucet water sources.
• Prevent forest fires.
• Keep fires small.
• Have water available to extinguish the fire properly.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Maintain a 10' diameter and debris-free area around the fire.
• Make sure ashes are cold when you leave a fire.