Iron County Lodging Association
Michigan's Annual "Three" Free Weekends

Get Outside for Free! Michigan’s Three Free Weekend Is Here

🎉 Three Free Weekend in Michigan: Adventure for $0.00!

June 7–8, 2025 — mark your calendars, grab your hiking boots, fishing pole, and maybe a kayak too, because Michigan’s "Three Free Weekend" is back! That’s right — for two full days, the state is waiving fees for just about everything outdoorsy. Whether you're a local looking for a spontaneous staycation or a tourist craving fresh air and lake views, this is your perfect excuse to unplug and play.

Side by sides traveling a trail in Michigan in the fall

So what exactly is free? We’re glad you asked...

🧺 1. Free State Park Entry

Ditch the Recreation Passport — state park entry fees are waived all weekend long! From the iconic shores of Tahquamenon Falls to hidden gems like Bewabic State Park in Iron County, every trail, beach, and scenic overlook is fair game. Road trip, anyone?

🎣 2. Free Fishing (No License Needed!)

Always wanted to try your hand at fishing but didn’t want to commit to a license? Now’s your chance. Residents and non-residents can fish all weekend — no license required! Just bring your bait, rod, and maybe a little luck. The trout are waiting.

🏎️ 3. Free ORV Riding on State Trails

Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Ride Michigan’s 4,000+ miles of designated ORV trails and routes for free. It’s open season for off-road fun — no trail permit or license needed.

📍 Where to Go in Iron County:

Why not spend the weekend exploring Iron County’s trails, lakes, and parks? Hike along Apple Blossom Trail, paddle around Chicaugon Lake, or cast a line into the Iron River (yep, it’s a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream).

🌞 Pro Tips:

  • Check the rules before you go! Other rules and regulations still apply. For more details check out Michigan DNR "Three" Free Weekend.

  • Pack sunscreen, snacks, and your sense of adventure.

  • Bring the whole crew — this is family (and budget) friendly.

  • Make it a weekend to remember by staying with an Iron County Lodging Council member — cozy cabins, lakeside resorts, and charming motels await!

👉 Book your stay today 🛏️ 

Start planning your weekend of free fun in Iron County! Check out our list of Members for lodging options.

⛺️ Let’s Make It a Tradition

"Three Free Weekend" is your golden ticket to explore more of Michigan — without spending a dime. So gas up, grab your gear, and take advantage of this once-a-year invitation to fall in love with the outdoors again.

ATV/ORV, Events, Fishing, Summer, Things to do and tagged , , , , , , , , , .

Rewarding Places to Stay in Michigan

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AmericInn
by Wyndham

906-214-2308
906-265-9100
40 E Adams St
Iron River, MI 49935

Website
Chicaugon-Lake-Inn-front-entry-1024x679-square-landscape-19887756cc5b4810e55a6baff1261e73-ou8yfm5cjhep
Chicaugon
Lake Inn

906-265-9244
1700 County Road 424
Gaastra, MI 49917

Website
Lakeshore-Motel-Ice-Lake-sun-over-water
Lakeshore Motel
Ice Lake

906-265-3611
1257 W Ice Lake Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

Website
Pg-19_Inset_fireworks-landscape-76b9c76c809f50200abf168229bdde8c-nwgu45p89z7j
Pioneer
Lodge

800-362-7853
373 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

Website
lodge
Ski Brule
Village

800-DO-BRULE
906-265-4957
397 Brule Mountain Rd
Iron River, MI 49935

Website
tallpines
Tall
Pines

906-822-7713
1968 US 141 Highway
Amasa, MI 49903

Website
Iron County Michigan 2025 Visitor Guide

Iron County Michigan Visitors Guide

Iron County is one of the Upper Peninsula’s best kept secrets. From camping to fishing, hunting to canoeing, mountain biking to forest bathing – no matter your interests, the great outdoors and clear crisp air await you here.

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