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Go Green: Michigan Park Unveils Eco-Friendly Restroom

The environmental movement in the United States can trace its roots to the country's many national parks, so it makes sense that the parks should employ the latest and greatest environmental technology. To that end, Michigan's Grand Haven State Park recently unveiled the first of many eco-friendly campground restrooms, a water- and energy-efficient structure designed to lesson the impact on the earth while helping people appreciate its beauty.

As the AP points out, the restroom has a host of conservation features, from timer-controlled showers and low-flow toilets to a collection of solar panels on the roof that help power the ventilation system. Natural light illuminates indoor areas during the day, while motion-detectors ensure that artificial lights are only used when needed.

This great leap forward in park restroom technology couldn't come at a better time, as record-high gas prices and economic uncertainty have many travelers eying cheaper vacation options like hiking and camping close to home. And it's hard to do better than Grand Haven State Park, a 48-acre triangle on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Grand River with white sand beaches, hiking trails, and a nifty lighthouse. So sally forth to Michigan for your eco-friendly summer vacation, and embrace the future of earth-friendly camping.

Related Stories:
· Campground Restrooms Becoming Ecologically Correct [AP via Yahoo! News]
· Grand Haven State Park [Official Site]
· National Parks Coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: AP]