MDOT Confirms Roadside Park Closures Starting Oct. 20

URGENT UPDATE: The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has just announced the seasonal closure of several roadside parks, beginning Monday, October 20, 2025. This announcement comes as part of necessary upgrades to bathroom facilities at key locations, impacting travelers planning fall scenic drives.

Starting October 20, White Cloud Roadside Park on M-37 in Newaygo County, Chase Roadside Park on US-10 in Lake County, and Baldwin Roadside Park, also on US-10, will close their gates. The closures are set to last through the winter as MDOT prepares for essential renovations.

Travelers should note that not all parks will be inaccessible during this transition. Some scenic parks will remain open longer into the fall season. Brown Roadside Park on M-25 in Huron County will continue to serve visitors until Friday, November 28. Meanwhile, in Newaygo County, both White River Roadside Park on M-20 and High Rollway Park on M-82 will remain open until Saturday, November 29. Additionally, the Manistee River Roadside Park near Manton on US-131 will close the season on Monday, December 1.

For those eager to explore Michigan’s natural beauty, MDOT assures that several parks will remain open throughout the winter. White Rock Roadside Park on M-25 in Sanilac County, Cass River Roadside Park on M-46 in Tuscola County, and Artesian Flow Roadside Park on M-140 near Watervliet in Berrien County will remain accessible to travelers year-round.

This seasonal adjustment is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of Michigan’s roadside parks, and MDOT urges all travelers to plan accordingly. For a complete list of parks and their closure dates, visit the official MDOT website.

As fall draws near, take advantage of the remaining open parks while you can. Share this information with fellow travelers to ensure everyone enjoys Michigan’s stunning landscapes before winter sets in!