Camp Idling

MUCC Announces One-Year Pause for Summer Camp as Major Facility Improvements Move Forward

[LANSING, Mich., March 24, 2026] The Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) announced today that its Michigan Out of Doors Summer Camp program will pause for the 2026 season while significant improvements are made to the camp’s facilities.

The decision follows important progress in MUCC’s long-term vision for the camp, including the development of a new archery facility valued at more than $600,000.

Because construction teams will be working throughout the camp property during this time, MUCC leadership determined that pausing camp operations for the 2026 season is the most responsible decision to ensure the safety of campers, staff, and volunteers.

Operating costs for summer camp programs have also increased in recent years. The one-year pause will allow MUCC to complete these improvements while continuing to take a careful and responsible approach to the long-term sustainability of the camp program.

“Camp has always been one of the most important ways MUCC connects young people to Michigan’s outdoors,” said Steve Dey, MUCC President. “While we know this pause will be disappointing to some families, these improvements will allow us to provide an even better experience for future campers.”

For decades, Michigan Out of Doors Summer Camp has introduced thousands of young people to conservation values, outdoor ethics, firearm safety, archery, hunting, fishing, and stewardship of Michigan’s natural resources. Each year the camp welcomes campers from across Michigan for hands-on outdoor education experiences that connect the next generation to the state’s outdoor heritage.

The improvements underway represent a major investment in the future of that mission.

MUCC plans to reopen the camp in 2027 with upgraded facilities that will better serve campers and strengthen outdoor education opportunities for the next generation.

The temporary pause also aligns with MUCC’s broader efforts to strengthen the organization and ensure its programs remain sustainable over the long term while continuing its mission to protect Michigan’s outdoor heritage.

“Investing in camp is investing in the next generation of conservationists,” Dey added. “These improvements ensure that when campers return in 2027, they will experience a stronger facility and an even better opportunity to learn about Michigan’s outdoors.”

Families who have already registered for 2026 camp sessions will be contacted directly regarding options for their registration deposits.

Additional information about the improvements and future camp plans will be shared as progress continues.

For more information, please visit MUCC.org or contact:

Mike Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer Michigan United Conservation Clubs mmitchell@mucc.org 734-778-1302

UNITING CITIZENS TO CONSERVE, PROTECT, AND ENHANCE MICHIGAN’S NATURAL RESOURCES AND OUTDOOR HERITAGE