A big draw is the annual Perseid Meteor Shower peaking this year August 9-13. Several state parks – not just those in the Upper Peninsula or northern Lower Peninsula – will stay open late for “Meteors & S’mores” programs with complimentary s’mores around the campfire to mark the occasion but every park offers great opportunities to camp under the stars according to the Michigan DNR.
According to Space.com air pollution has made Earth’s atmosphere less transparent and more reflective and an increase in light on the ground has created “a bright background light resembling a perpetual twilight” that makes it tough to see stars.
That’s where 103 state parks from Detroit to Ontonagon offering more than 352,000 acres of public land can really steal the show.
No special equipment is needed to view these meteor showers. The Perseids are among the brightest showers of the year and can easily be seen with the naked eye.
Designated viewing areas and times are specified at each park. Event dates are available at michigan.gov/darksky. Make camping reservations at midnrreservations.com or call 1-800-44PARKS. For more information contact Elissa Buck at 989-313-0000.
Source: Michigan DNR

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