miCHILIgan Fall Hang
Michigan's fall hang and chili cook off at Yankee Springs. Good food, raffles and a big crowd of Midwest hangers.
miCHILIgan grew out of the Michigan Fall Hang and Chili Festival and runs at the Deep Lake group campground in Yankee Springs Recreation Area, between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. A volunteer board runs it, with registration opening in spring. Expect chili, activities, gear chats and a raffle, with proceeds going to the North Country Trail Association's Chief Noonday Chapter. The 2026 edition ran October 2 to 4. Bring a chili to enter or just a big spoon.
What to bring
- ✓ Hammock, wide tree straps and carabiners
- ✓ Rain tarp and stakes
- ✓ Underquilt or pad for the night
- ✓ Headlamp, camp chair and a dish for the potluck
- ✓ Water and anything the registration page asks for
New to sleeping in a hammock? Read how to hammock camp before you go.
Frequently asked questions
When is miCHILIgan Fall Hang?+
The next date hasn't been announced. Usually the first or second weekend of October
Where is miCHILIgan Fall Hang?+
Yankee Springs Recreation Area, Deep Lake Group Campground, Middleville, Michigan.
How do I sign up for miCHILIgan Fall Hang?+
Registration opens in spring through the Hammock Forums thread
Hammock spots near miCHILIgan Fall Hang
Make a trip of it.
Yes, hammock camping is common here, but you must follow the gorge camping setbacks and buy a recreation pass for overnight parking.
Likely yes, since campsites list hammocks as permitted equipment, but the park has no published hammock rule, so use wide straps and stay inside your site.
Yes, hammocks are allowed in campsites and designated backcountry sites with tree saver straps, but never in or on shelters.
More hammock events nearby
Michigan's long running winter hang at Ludington State Park on Lake Michigan. Snow, dunes and a crew that knows how to stay warm.
A Wisconsin Memorial Day weekend hang where bacon shows up at every meal. The 10th edition ran in 2026 at Point Beach State Forest.
A hardcore Michigan winter hang among huge trees in the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Bring long straps and your warmest bag.
Red River Gorge (Daniel Boone National Forest) 7.1, Shenandoah National Park 7.5, Great Smoky Mountains National Park 7.3