Petoskey State Park to Close for Sewer Upgrades, Campground Improvements

Petoskey State Park will close its campgrounds and day-use areas this fall for a major sewer upgrade, with work expected to continue through mid-May 2026. The planned upgrade, initially scheduled for last year, was delayed due to funding constraints and has now been put out for bid.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed the closure, which begins on Sept. 3, to facilitate infrastructure improvements.

The project will connect the park’s sanitation facilities to the city sewer system, requiring water service to be shut off throughout the park, according to park supervisor Jilanne Egleston. 

With the park’s two modern campgrounds affected by the construction, all 180 sites will be unavailable during the closure.

Access to the park’s recreation areas during the sewer project will be limited. DNR will provide updates on accessibility through social media channels as the project progresses.

According to an article published by M Live, the project will also include a new dump station with additional lanes to alleviate congestion during peak times.

Egleston also explained that the campsites needed to be blocked within the six-month reservation window to prevent cancellations once the project timeline is finalized.

In addition to the sewer project, the park is undergoing renovations on one of its most frequented trails, the Old Baldy Trail. 

The boardwalk improvements, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, are expected to be completed by Memorial Day weekend.

The park, spanning 303 acres, is located three miles northeast of Petoskey and is a popular destination for visitors to Little Traverse Bay. Known for its mile-long Lake Michigan shoreline and recreational trails, it attracts campers and hikers year-round.

With Petoskey State Park unavailable during the construction period, visitors are encouraged to consider alternative locations, including Wilderness State Park and Young State Park. These nearby destinations offer similar recreational opportunities.