How to Earn a Free Two-Week Stay at a Michigan Lighthouse

Looking for a unique way to enjoy a Michigan summer while giving back to our state? Become a volunteer lighthouse keeper and earn a free stay at a historic Michigan lighthouse!

The Michigan DNR says the Tawas Point Lighthouse Keeper Program offers combined vacation and service opportunities for adults from May 16 to Oct. 16. Those selected to be volunteer lighthouse keepers receive lodging in the restored keepers' quarters next to the 1876 Tawas Point Lighthouse in Tawas Point State Park. In exchange, participants provide roughly 35 hours of services each week in and around the lighthouse.

Keeper duties include greeting visitors, giving tours, providing information about the lighthouse, and routine cleaning and maintenance. Keepers stay in the second story of the keepers' quarters attached to the lighthouse. Accommodations include two bedrooms sleeping up to four adults and modern kitchen, bath and laundry facilities. Keepers must commit to a two-week stay at the lighthouse.

The program looks for teams of two, three or four adults, especially those with knowledge of Great Lakes and lighthouse history, but that knowledge is not a requirement.

The application period is open through Feb. 2, 2018. Apply here and learn more.