Great Outdoors Jamboree set for Sept. 10 at Lake Hudson Recreation Area

Pheasants Forever, the Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources invite anyone looking for a fun, free way to enjoy the outdoors to the fifth annual Great Outdoors Jamboree Sunday, Sept. 10, at Lake Hudson Recreation Area in Lenawee County. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can learn about Michigan outdoor recreation opportunities and participate in a variety of activities that are fun for both new and returning Jamboree attendees. All ages are welcome.

This event offers a chance to spend a day outdoors learning all the skills necessary to hunt, fish or enjoy just about any outdoor recreation pursuit. More than 40 exhibitors will be on hand to display, discuss and give hands-on instruction on archery, target shooting, bass fishing, campsite exploration, boating and many more nature-based activities. Highlights include the live birds of prey program presented by Michigan Avian Experience, and Smokey Bear will be there for a great family photo opportunity.

Opportunities also will be available to learn about habitat and environmental projects and take part in a live chukar hunt. Pre-registration is required for the chukar hunt. Contact Julie Griswold at 734-320-9243 (after 4 p.m.) or dixievriverwoods@gmail.com to register.

“Not only will we have a live chukar hunt and lots of outdoor-themed activity stations to explore, but the first 50 grandparents who attend with their grandchildren will receive a prize,” said Jim O’Brien, park manager at Lake Hudson Recreation Area. “Also, in celebration of the Great Outdoors Jamboree’s fifth year, the 5,000th visitor will receive a special gift.” 

“Spending your day with us at the Great Outdoors Youth Jamboree will guarantee you a fun-filled day with your family, with plenty of memories that will last forever,” said Bill Fischer, outreach coordinator for Pheasants Forever Michigan. “Now that sounds like a great way to spoil your loved ones this Grandparents Day. We can't wait to see everyone there.”

A vendor will be on-site with food for sale, or visitors can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake.

Visitors are encouraged to bring water bottles and backpacks or tote bags for all the exhibitor giveaways and to dress for the weather as the event will be held rain or shine.

For more information about the Great Outdoors Jamboree, go to www.michiganpheasantsforever.org/events/719-2017-jambo.

There is no charge to participate in the event, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry to Lake Hudson Recreation Area. Recreation Passports can be purchased at the park entrance, or visitors can check out a free Michigan Activity Pass from their local library. 

The Michigan Pheasant Restoration Initiative aims to create small game hunting opportunities, increase wildlife populations, improve hunter satisfaction and help Michigan's economy. Landowners can get involved – and can get technical and financial assistance – by forming cooperatives to create and enhance pheasant habitat. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/pheasant.