© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Firework-Free Campgrounds For 4th of July

While the Fourth of July is all about fireworks for lots of people, the loud pops and glaring explosions can be nightmarish for others, including veterans of military service who suffer from mental health challenges like PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder). In Michigan, 11 state parks are designated as fireworks-free zones for that very reason. 

 

brighton_1.mp3
Campground supervisor, Mike Donnelly, explains why firework-free parks are available.

Mike Donelly, the park supervisor at Brighton Recreation Area, one of the 11 parks that will be celebrating the Fourth without fireworks. He says the reception has been positive overall, and reservations are filled up.

 

 

 

brighton_2.mp3
The reaction towards Brighton's firework-free campground.

More information about fireworks-free zones and preparing for the Fourth of July can be found here.

Brooke Allen served as local producer and host for Morning Edition, from June 2016-March 2018.
Related Content
WKAR’s first live pledge drive since federal funding was eliminated is happening now. Our goal for the drive is $60,000 and reaching it will bring us one step closer to closing the federal funding gap.
Your support helps keep trusted journalism, classical music, and educational programming freely available for everyone in our community.
How can you help? Become a sustaining donor today. Already a sustainer? Please consider increasing your monthly contribution.