Next weekend will be an opportunity for Michiganders to enjoy the great outdoors without having to pay as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources holds a “Three Free Weekend” on June 13 and 14.

The DNR’s Marcee Wardell tells us three things will be free: entrance to state parks, fishing, and ORV riding.

Normally, you have to get a fishing license to fish, something Wardell says 1.2 million people in Michigan do each year. For next weekend, though, it’s not required, and a lot of state parks are holding special events.

“There are a lot of fishing programs happening to teach new anglers how to fish because part of the appeal of Free Fishing Weekend is that it’s a great way to try fishing if you’ve never done it before and you’re not sure you want to purchase a license,” Wardell said.

Check with your favorite state park to find out if they’re doing anything special for free fishing next weekend.

Wardell says fishing is a major part of the Michigan economy.

“Michigan’s recreational fishery has an economic impact of about nearly $4 billion annually. So fishing is a huge part of our state economy, of our tourism, and of our culture.”

Also next weekend, anyone can legally ride 4,000 miles of state-designated routes and trails and Michigan’s six scramble areas without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit. And Wardell says free admission to state parks for the weekend will give many visitors a taste of the DNR Recreation Passport that grants vehicle access to Michigan state parks year-round.

For the best outdoor experiences, the DNR urges everyone to protect our natural resources and put safety first when enjoying Michigan’s woods, water, and trails.