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Lighthouse Keepers

lighthouse keepers pose in front of Tawas Lighthouse on a sunny summer day.

Lighthouse Keepers

Become a Lighthouse Keeper

The application window for the 2025 Lighthouse Keeper Program has closed. Check back next year for another opportunity!

Immerse yourself in history and become a Tawas Point Lighthouse Keeper! For just $250 per person, you'll live along the Lake Huron shoreline in an historic lighthouse keeper's dwelling. Enjoy modern accommodations, including two bedrooms that can sleep four adults, a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom with a shower. Free parking is also provided. The keeper schedule is designed to allow time to enjoy recreational activities on your own while providing valuable volunteer services.

The lighthouse is located inside Tawas Point State Park, located at 686 Tawas Beach Road in East Tawas.

Lighthouse keepers will help greet visitors, lead tours, provide information and perform basic facility maintenance, such as sweeping, removing trash and thoroughly cleaning the living quarters upon departure.

Keepers apply in teams of four. Team members must be 18 years or older and able to climb 85 steps.   

The total commitment is about 30 hours each week.

Successful applicants will be notified no later than March 14, 2025. If you do not receive a notification by March 31, 2025, your application was not selected for the 2025 season. A volunteer training will take place in March via Zoom. Training materials will be emailed to successful applicants.

Application requirements

  • Applicants must apply in teams of four.
  • Only one application is required per team.
  • A $40 non-refundable application fee applies to each group.
  • Applications must be submitted using the online form. 

More information

Contact DNR-TawasKeepers@Michigan.gov for more information.