(WXYZ) — If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors without abandoning all the comforts of home, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is offering up some unique camping experiences.
Two geodesic domes, which sleep up to four each, are now available for booking at Port Crescent State Park in Port Austin. The domes feature spruce paneling, skylights, windows with a view of Lake Huron, a sitting area and a mini kitchenette. There is also a picnic table, fire pit and grill at each site for that added camping experience. There is no running water inside, but campground restrooms are a "short distance away," according to the DNR's listing.
Photos courtesy Michigan DNR
The domes were built by Recreation Resource Management in partnership with the DNR.
Bookings start at $170 per night and there is a two-night minimum.
“It’s higher than our normal cabins, but they provide a lot more spacious opportunities than some of the traditional cabins we have,” said Ron Olson, Michigan DNR Parks and Recreation chief. “For every rental, we get some revenue and then they recoup their costs for building it, so it didn’t cost the state or us anything to build them.”
Photos courtesy Michigan DNR
The grey dome called The Voyager has more modern furnishings while the gold dome called The Nomad has more traditional furnishings.
Olson said as soon as they opened the domes up for booking, a lot of people staked their claim.
Photos courtesy Michigan DNR
“They were extremely popular,” said Olson. “I would urge people if they’re interested to check it out, see what’s available.”
The domes are part of the effort to expand choices for lodging across the Michigan park system "to get people that like . . . perhaps a little less rustic accommodations to camp in a park,” he said.
Olson said they are also experimenting with mobile tiny houses, which haven’t opened up for booking yet, and safari tents.
Photos courtesy Michigan DNR
He said after this year, we can expect more to see even more diverse lodging options become available for campers.
You can find all of the current available camping experiences through the DNR’s website by clicking here.
