The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is inviting everyone to learn more about a new draft management plan for Van Buren State Park with a public meeting set for next month.
The DNR says at the meeting, staff will present an overview of the draft plan, proposed park improvements, and the planning process, and then there will be an opportunity for people to ask questions and provide comments.
The DNR uses general management plans to define a long-term planning and management strategy to protect the resources of a park while serving the recreation and education needs of users.
The Van Buren State Park, near South Haven, is a major attraction in the area, offering a mile of Lake Michigan beach, towering dunes, a modern campground, wooded, trails and a day-use area. Visitors can also explore the 4-mile Van Buren State Park Spur Trail, which leads to the city of South Haven. Along the way, they can connect to the 12-mile Van Buren Trail State Park and the 33.5-mile Kal-Haven Trail State Park.
The DNR hopes fans of the park will come to the June 3 meeting at the South Haven Township Hall. It’ll run from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. An online survey regarding everyone’s thoughts on the park is also available through June 30.