MN Nature in St Paul, Minnesota, has family-friendly outdoor activities planned for the entire year. Peak summer events are happening now. They include pollinator events and volunteer opportunities, late-night concerts and wildlife presentations, and Beaver Bingo. Yea, that’s right—-don’t miss out on the Beaver Bingo at Sibley State Park. What better reason is there for staying up late on a summer evening?
Fabulously Free
As always, the events listed here are free unless otherwise noted. There are some costs associated even with free events at times. Many state parks require a vehicle sticker if you drive into the park. Day or annual passes are available for purchase. For fishing, hunting, and foraging events a state permit may be required. Those vary in cost. Often if permits are required it will be noted in the event.
Activities For All
The events going on around the state are diverse and all-inclusive. There are accessibility hikes, family-friendly activities, events for singles, and women-only programs. We encourage you to find the perfect event for you to truly enjoy the outdoors with others and broaden your network for quality nature time. The list below is a quick look at the many activities happening around the state. Be sure to check the natural resources calendar for your county, city, or neighborhood group as well as local outdoor rec stores and learning centers.
This Week’s Outdoors Fun
08/22/2016
Little Explorers: L is for Lizard
10 AM to 11 AM Through stories, activities and a craft our smallest visitors discover a new letter of nature’s alphabet each week. This special program is designed to capture the interest of children ages 3-6 and their adults. This week, discover a special lizard that lives at the park. Join the fun at the visitor center each Monday at 10 AM from June 13 to Aug. 29 (with the exception of July 4).
Interstate State Park
Bombs in the Bog
2 PM to 3:30 PM Did bombing of the Big Bog really happen? Join us as we delve into this interesting topic. Hear first-hand accounts of what was seen and heard. View rare artifacts and photos. Learn about Bunyan’s Boys and Operation Deep Freeze. With new material being added continuously, you won’t want to miss this! Meet at the Visitor Center.
Big Bog State Park
Pothole Exploration Tour
12 PM to 1 PM Discover how lakes of lava and gushing glacial waters formed the park’s unique potholes as you journey over, under and through world-renowned rock features on this naturalist-guided tour. This 45-minute walk includes some uneven terrain and stairs. Meet at the visitor center.
Interstate State Park
Summer Flower Hike
11 AM to 12 PM Take a gentle walk in search of summer flowers. Learn identification tips, flower lore and legends with the naturalist. Bring a water bottle and dress for the weather.
Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Turtle Tuesday
1 PM to 2 PM Turtles love prairie potholes and we love turtles. Join the naturalist for a turtle story or activity then watch a snapping or painted turtle swim, exercise and hunt in an outdoor pool.
Meet in the Interpretive Center Pond Room. Program takes place every Tuesday June-August.
Sibley State Park
08/23/2016
Public Input on Cuyuna Country SRA
6 PM to 7:30 PM Amendment can be found at: mndnr.gov
(www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/mgmtplans/parks/cuyuna_country.html).
More Information: Contact Andrew Grinstead at 651-259-5606 or by email at andrew.grinstead@state.mn.us.
City Hall – 309 Third Street – Ironton
Geology Discovery Cart
1:30 PM to 3 PM Rock ON! Explore the amazing and complex geologic history of the Gooseberry area. Learn how agates form, which rock is what and the creation of the waterfalls.
Stop by any time on the trails to the Middle Falls.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
08/24/2016
Roseville Community Orchard —Volunteer Work Days
9:00 am to 11:00 am Support the orchard and help it thrive by volunteering for a 2-hour work session on one of the following dates: August 24th, September 14th, September 28th
Urban Orchard, City of Roseville
Itasca’s Mysteries in History: The Lind Saddle Trail Marker Mystery
10:30 AM to 12:30 PM Meet outside Douglas Lodge
In the late 1890’s Governor Lind “loved the shaded hills and deep ravines about Itasca Lake” so much that he spent his own money to develop a horse trail. This route, cut from the wagon road at Mary Creek to the Source of the Mississippi River, made a circuit to the south end of the park. Join the naturalist as we hike along the original saddle trail to one of the mystery markers scattered throughout the park.
Notes: The hike to the marker is approximately 3 miles round trip. Bring insect repellant, sunscreen, water and a hat.
This program is part of the 125th anniversary celebration of Itasca State Park and Minnesota State Parks and Trails.
Itasca State Park
Nature Time at the Beach
1 PM to 2 PM Hey kids! Join a naturalist at the beach for a hands-on nature activity. Meet at the Beach.
Whitewater State Park
Nature Explorations: Bugs Bugs Bugs!
1 PM to 3 PM Are you sure that is a bug you just saw? We will explore what it means to be an insect through a variety of hands-on activities, including sweep netting and capturing. We will also play a few games and do a craft. Meet at the picnic area near the beach for this program designed for children aged 5-15, but all are welcome. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
A MN state park vehicle permit is required to attend this event. Permits can be purchased at the park office for $5/day or $25/annual.
Glacial Lakes State Park
Beginning Canoeing
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM Meet at the boat access near the beach every other Wednesday in June, July and August to learn canoeing basics from a Naturalist. We will cover safety, parts of the canoe and paddles, and learn strokes before heading out on to the water to practice our skills. Equipment will be provided, so come enjoy a paddle on a quite lake. Please call the park to register for this event or for more information.
A MN state park vehicle permit is required to attend this event. Permits can be purchased at the park office for $5/day or $25/annual.
Glacial Lakes State Park
Lake Superior Yoga
8 AM to 9 AM Let your partner get the kids fed at your campsite and come on down to Lake Superior for a relaxing yoga session. Yoga sessions will meet on the plaza behind the Visitor Center or in the Tettegouche Meeting Room if the weather is not nice. Bring a yoga pad or sleeping mat if you have one, otherwise loaners are available.
$10 per person fee.
Tettegouche State Park
Weather Watchers
2 PM to 3 PM Wind, Water, Heat, and snow! What is the recipe for a thunderstorm or a blizzard? Join a naturalist for a closer look at the weather around us.
Meet inside the interpretive center theater for some weather investigating on a different topic each week of August, followed by making some of our own scientific observations outdoors.
Sibley State Park
08/25/2016
Nature Time at the Beach
1 PM to 2 PM Hey kids! Join a naturalist at the beach for a hands-on nature activity. Meet at the Beach.
Whitewater State Park
Nature Play – Through the Looking Glass
1 PM to 2:30 PM What is “Nature Play?” Do you want your kids to spend more time outside but just don’t know what to do with them? Learn how to explore the outdoors during this kid’s program series. Each week we’ll investigate a different topic through fun games and hands on activities. Special emphasis is placed on nature observation skills, exploring safely and activities to do in your own backyard. The “Nature Play” series of programs will occur weekly from June 9th – August 25th. Check the schedule for topics and exact program dates.
This Week’s Program: Let?s discover the world of everything tiny with magnifying lenses and microscopes. Explore the forests of Lilliput, the “lions” of the insect world and even the world’s smallest flower. Then build your own magical little world to take home with you. Equipment provided.
Where to Meet Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center. In case of severe weather, portions of this program will be moved indoors.
Registration: No registration is required.
What to bring: We will be outside for all of the program. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Sunblock, insect repellent and long pants will be useful.
Hike difficulty: This program will involve varied surfaces. Mowed lawn, park trails and in some cases walking off trail will be involved. The terrain difficulty will be appropriate for young children but may not be appropriate for strollers.
Who Should Attend? Programs are designed for all ages.
Jay Cooke State Park
Two Wheeled Tour – Biking the Munger Trail
10 AM to 12 PM Join us on the Tour de Jay Cooke State Park! Learn about the history of the park as we bike the scenic Willard Munger State Trail. The round trip bike ride is 7 miles which can be applied to your “Bike, Boot, or Boat” mileage celebrating Minnesota State Parks 125th Anniversary! Bring your own bike and helmets are required. Preregister at the park office or interpretive center. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center parking lot.
Jay Cooke State Park
Flint Knapping
1 PM to 5 PM Join flint knapper, Al Anderson, as he demonstrates the skillful art of working raw stone into tools. You may even get a chance to try this yourself!
Tettegouche State Park
Parks and Trails Legacy Advisory Committee
9:30 AM to 2:30 PM Contact Paul Purman at 651-259-5643 or by email at paul.purman@state.mn.us for more info, or visit http://www.legacy.leg.mn/ptlac/meetings.
Hartley Nature Center – 3001 Woodland Ave – Duluth
Signs of Bigfoot
7 PM to 8 PM Animals leave behind clues that can tell us a great deal about the animal. Come and explore the park in a unique and interactive way that allows you to gather information about the hidden creatures of Gooseberry Falls. Try your luck in an inquiry based hunt for the allusive Bigfoot and see what you can learn about this legendary creature.
Meet at the amphitheater next to Lady Slipper Lodge.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Birds Discovery Tent
1 PM to 3 PM Discover the many birds that call Gooseberry home. Try your luck identifying birds based on their unique songs and calls. Make a pine-cone bird feeder to take home.
Drop by along the paved trail to Middle Falls.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
I Can Fish
3 PM to 5 PM Join us on the shores of Lake Andrew for an introduction to fishing! Poles and equipment included. Meet at the fishing pier.
Sibley State Park
Prairie Preschool: End of Summer Party
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Little naturalists, ages 2-6, are welcome each Thursday for Prairie Preschool. We will explore a monthly theme using play, stories, hands-on activities, and short hikes. Children of all ages welcome but lessons are designed for early learners. This final class will be a celebration of our summer together! If you?d like to contribute something to the party, contact the park naturalist at 218-498-2124.
Consider packing a lunch and your swimsuit to enjoy the picnic grounds and swimming beach at Buffalo River State Park. Event is free but there is a $5 daily fee to enter the state park or you can purchase an annual pass. In the event of rain, program will take place inside the Nature Center.
Buffalo River State Park
Falls View Hike
11 AM to 12 PM Come witness the rich history of Gooseberry Falls State Park as we hike around the falls. Don’t forget your camera. Hike includes descending stairs on this 3/4 mile walk.
Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Archery in the Park
3 PM to 5 PM The sport of shooting arrows has been around for thousands of years. First humans used archery as a way to hunt animals and later as a way to compete against each other. Archery is an activity that people from all walks of life and almost every size and ability can participate and have fun. This program covers the basics of archery (safety, proper care of the equipment and how to use a bow). Archery in the Park provides a safe place for children over the age of eight to learn how to shoot a bow. Participants will be able to practice their new skills on a target. Please meet at the Upper Picnic Area.
Fort Ridgely State Park
08/26/2016
Prairie Hike
7 PM to 8 PM Prior to Euro-American settlement of southern Minnesota, the tall-grass prairie dominated the landscape throughout the Minnesota River Basin. A hike through a restored prairie will give us a chance to learn about some of the plants and wildlife found in this ecosystem. We will also talk about its benefits to the natural environment and how people over time have viewed and managed it as a resource. Please meet at the Upper Picnic Area.
Fort Ridgely State Park
Nature Time at the Beach
1 PM to 2 PM Hey kids! Join a naturalist at the beach for a hands-on nature activity. Meet at the Beach.
Whitewater State Park
Legends and Lore of the Whitewater Area
8 PM to 9 PM Come learn about the history of this area through stories of people and creatures that have roamed these valleys. We’ll hear about early pioneers, a local gold rush, a famous backwoodsman, legendary conservation heroes, strange creatures and maybe even some ghosts.
Whitewater State Park
I Can Fish! – Shoreline Fridays
1 PM to 3 PM Have you always wanted to learn how to fish but had no one to teach you? Or perhaps you?d just like to enjoy a relaxing afternoon fishing with the kids. Join us each week as we learn all about fishing: identifying, casting, equipment and more. Then take your new skills and spend a little time with us fishing along the shore of the river. Equipment, bait, and instruction provided. MN residents do not need a fishing license.
NOTE: The ?I Can Fish? program occurs every Friday from June 17th ? August 26th. In case of high water, we will cancel the program due to safety concerns. Cancelled programs will be noted on the website or you can call the park.
Where to Meet Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center.
Registration: No registration is required.
What to bring: We will be outside for the entire program along the shore of a river. Please dress appropriately for the conditions. Sunblock, insect repellant, water shoes and sunglasses may be useful. All fishing equipment and bait provided. A fishing license is not needed.
Hike difficulty: This program occurs along the uneven shoreline of the St. Louis River. The walk from the visitor center to the fishing spot is ¼ mile.
Who Should Attend? Programs are designed for all ages. Families, adults and children are welcome to attend.
Program fee: There is no fee for the program itself. However, all vehicles entering a MN State Park need a vehicle permit. A daily permit for $5 or an annual permit for $25 can be purchased upon arrival. The annual permit is good for 12 months at any MN State Park.
Jay Cooke State Park
Trail Hike
9 AM to 11:30 AM The 125 mile challenge is well underway and whether you are close to finishing or just starting out we will add on 4-5 miles to your tally on this walk around some of Afton State Park’s trails. Hilly terrain, on grass and gravel trails. For more information call 651-231-6968 or email Linda.Radimecky@state.mn.us
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/125/125miles.html
Afton State Park
Parks for Monarchs: Majestic Monarchs
1 PM to 2 PM Majestic Monarchs
Orange, black and white, they can bring smiles to the faces of almost anyone who catches a glimpse of a Monarch butterfly. These insects are incredible and you can discover why during this program in the visitor center. This program is part of the MN 125 series of programs.
Afton State Park
I Can Fish: Fishing Friday
3 PM to 5 PM Join us to try your hand at a classic Minnesota hobby. You’ll learn about some common Minnesota fish species, how to bait a hook and cast, and much more! Equipment provided, no license required for Minnesota residents. Registration required. Call 612-725-2724 to register.
Fort Snelling State Park
Fishing Frenzy Fridays
9 AM to 11 AM Join a naturalist every Friday for a morning of fishing and hands-on learning. We will discover the world of fish and then show you how to catch them. Bring your own bait, worms work best. Also bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle. Limited rods and reels will be provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the amphitheater. Only non-Minnesota residents need a fishing license.
Lake Carlos State Park
Pothole Exploration Tour
12 PM to 1 PM Discover how lakes of lava and gushing glacial waters formed the park’s unique potholes as you journey over, under and through world-renowned rock features on this naturalist-guided tour. This 45-minute walk includes some uneven terrain and stairs. Meet at the visitor center.
Interstate State Park
Archery in the Parks
2 PM to 3 PM Archery in the Parks is hands-on instruction shooting a bow and arrow from certified instructors in a safe and supportive environment. Aim for family adventure with kid friendly equipment designed for beginners age 8 and older. Children age 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Personal archery equipment is not allowed. All archery programs are free with a Minnesota State Parks vehicle entrance permit. No registration necessary. Meet outside the St. Croix Lodge.
St. Croix State Park
Geology Discovery Tent
1 PM to 3 PM Rock ON! Explore the amazing and complex geologic history of the Gooseberry area. Learn how agates form, which rock is what and the creation of the waterfalls.
Stop by any time on the trails to the Middle Falls.
Look for the tent!
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) History Hike
11 AM to 12 PM The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) allowed for many of the MN State Parks to come into existence. Gooseberry was one of those parks that was birthed with the influence of the CCC. Come explore the remains of the rich past that tell the story of these incredible young men.
Hike includes uneven terrain on a ¾ mile trail.
Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
iNaturalist Biobliz at Assiniboia Skipper Prairie SNA
10 AM to 12:30 PM Contribute directly to our understanding of the plants and animals found at Assinaboia Skipper Prairie SNA by participating in an iNaturalist Biobliz. Please bring a smart device with the free iNaturalist app downloaded. http://www.inaturalist.org/
Event is free and program will begin at the park office.We will travel off site so best to confirm participation ahead of time. Room is available in the naturalist vehicle but space is limited to first come first serve. Dress for tall grass and uneven ground and bring a snack or bag lunch for the ride. Participants will need to bring
Buffalo River State Park
Geocaching 101
1 PM to 3 PM Discover the tips of the trade on how the Global Positioning System works and how to use a GPS. Try it right away searching for our Call of the Wildflowers Sibley State Park card.
Come to this event and earn the Call of the Wildflowers 2016 Special Edition Card! Start your collection today! Meet at the Nature Store at Lake Andrew.
Sibley State Park
Let’s Go Ponding
8 PM to 9 PM We have small aquatic neighbors that you may not have met yet. Join the naturalist to make a splash in the pond by finding these critters and making introductions.
Meet outside the Interpretive Center. Tick prevention gear and clothing is highly suggested along with bug spray and a water bottle.
Sibley State Park
Fitness Frolic Fridays
8 AM to 9 AM Beat the heat and get out for a faster paced hike around the park with a naturalist. Together we will determine our path, whether it is hiking the roads and visiting the campsites or hitting a trail, and our pace, from brisk to casual.
Meet the naturalist outside the Interpretive Center. Workout clothes and good shoes recommended.
Sibley State Park
Nature in All Seasons
7 PM to 8 PM Seasonal changes in nature are called Phenology. Join a naturalist and explore the world of Gooseberry as we take a closer look at the phenology of the park. You?ll create a unique journal to record and remember your nature observations.
Be ready to find nature on a short ¼ mile walk. Bug spray and camera are recommended.
Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Archery in the Park
10 AM to 2 PM Here is your chance to learn how to shoot a bow in a safe, supervised setting. The Archery in the Parks program is designed for families and people of all ages and skill levels. You can get hands on instruction from a certified instructor along with experience with target practice. Learn a lifelong skill. Adult must accompany participants younger than 14 years of age. All equipment provided. Open shoot from 10 am to 2 pm at the Meadowbrook State Park office.
Big Stone Lake State Park
08/27/2016
10th Annual North Country Hiking Fest: Take on the Challenge!
10:30 AM to 7:30 PM For hike starting location and times see below.
Join us at Itasca State Park for a day packed full of family friendly and healthy activities focusing on the National North Country Trail. This is a perfect day to take a hike! Are you brave enough to take on the challenge? This year we celebrate 10 years by hiking the entire length of the North Country Trail in Itasca State Park. Our 10.6 mile hiking challenge will begin at the western access point on the Anchor Matson Road and hike across the entire width of the park, where we will conclude near Highway 71. (Refer to Maps 12 thru 14, pages 104- 116 of the “Guide to the North Country National Scenic Trail in Minnesota”).
For those short on time or not wanting to hike the challenge, join us in the afternoon for hiking tips and a chance to make your own hiking stick during our Hiking 101 program. Learn tips about hiking while you design your own hiking staff.
Itasca State Park: Meet at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center.
Description:
Summer Sampler: River Day
10 AM to 12:30 PM Celebrate the 125th anniversary of Minnesota State Parks and Trails with a Summer Sampler event! Come out to Flandrau State Park for a fun morning of activities related to the Cottonwood River. From 10 to 12:30 there will be a variety of stations set up near the river to give people an idea of what lives in the water and how the water quality has changed over time.
Flandrau State Park
Snakes of the Blufflands
11 AM to 12 PM Sixteen of Minnesota’s seventeen kinds of snakes live in the Blufflands. Learn how we can live, work and recreate in the Blufflands and still conserve these awesome creatures. A slide show about area snakes and a live snake program will be given. See a live fox snake. Bring a camera for a picture of your loved one touching a live snake!
Whitewater State Park
Parks for Monarchs: Tag a Monarch —Volunteer Activity
2 PM to 3 PM Learn about our amazing native butterflies. After a power point presentation, we will take a short hike to catch, tag and release monarch butterflies. You will be part of on-going research to study the migration of these incredible insects. If you have a butterfly net of your own, bring it along.
Whitewater State Park
Live Eagle Program
7 PM to 8 PM Want to see a live bald eagle up close? Tonight you can! Bring your camera. Staff from the National Eagle Center in Wabasha will be at Whitewater to share with us the tremendous comeback story of our national bird. With a live eagle they will introduce the bald eagle’s life history and why the Mississippi River and the Blufflands are so important to the eagle’s survival.
Whitewater State Park
Hardwoods Home Companion
8:30 PM to 9:30 PM Join naturalists to learn about nature through songs, skits, famous guests and lots of laughs. The whole family is sure to be entertained! Meet at the amphitheater for an amusing evening.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Monarch Hike on the Prairie
10 AM to 12 PM Join Katy Gillispie, Master Naturalist, to learn about monarch butterflies in the prairie. The program will include walking along the trail looking at butterflies nectaring on wildflowers and caterpillars on milkweed. You will learn field skills that will help you recognize monarch activity wherever you are in nature. Ask the naturalist for your “Call of the Wildflower” 2016 Special Edition Program Card following the program.
Nerstrand-Big Woods State Park
125th Parks Anniversary Special Program: Ice Cream Social with Fabulous Music!
6 PM to 8 PM The park and the Friend’s Group of William O’Brien would like to invite you to an evening of live music and ice cream! Bring a blanket or lawn chair, picnic dinner, and your dancing shoes to Picnic Shelter 1 & 2. Music in shelter one and ice cream in shelter two! Listen to the classic rock and roll music of the “Turn Around” band and dessert is on us. Join us for this special gathering at the park.
William O’Brien State Park
Hunters of the Sky
7 PM to 8 PM The Audubon Center of the North Woods will use live hawks and owls in this special program about raptors of Minnesota. Meet at the Council Ring next to the interpretive center. In case of rain the program will be held inside the interpretive center.
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Parks for Monarchs: Monarch Tagging
4 PM to 5:30 PM Monarch butterflies are one of the most recognizable insects in Minnesota, however people are seeing less and less of them. Join us for a fun and informative program where you will take part in catching, tagging, and releasing monarchs for research. Find out why they are disappearing and what you can do to help. Meet at the picnic shelter.
This Parks for Monarchs program is part of the 125th anniversary celebration of Minnesota State Parks and Trails.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park
Bombing of the Big Bog
7 PM to 8:30 PM Did bombing of the Big Bog really happen? Join us as we delve into this interesting topic. Hear first-hand accounts of what was seen and heard. View rare artifacts and photos. Learn about Bunyan’s Boys and Operation Deep Freeze. With new material being added continuously, you won’t want to miss this! Meet at the Visitor Center.
Big Bog State Park
Geology Rocks Gooseberry
11 AM to 12:30 PM Listen to the rocks as they tell of lava flows, glaciers and roaring rivers on this hike of discovery. Join the Naturalist around the middle and lower falls. Majority of the hike will involve descending stairs. Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Interpretive Nature Walk
10 AM to 11:30 AM Join naturalist Bruce Ause on a 1-mile interpretive nature hike.
Time: Saturdays starting May 28 through October 20 at 10 am Check signs at the park office or campground sanitation building for cancellations.
Where: Meet at the Amphitheater in the campground.
Fun for all ages! The topics vary based on what is naturally occurring each week.
Trying for the 125 Miles by Bike, Boot or Boat Challenge? This event can help you add a little distance.
Frontenac State Park
Pothole Exploration Tour
12 PM to 1 PM Discover how lakes of lava and gushing glacial waters formed the park’s unique potholes as you journey over, under and through world-renowned rock features on this naturalist-guided tour. This 45-minute walk includes some uneven terrain and stairs. Meet at the visitor center.
Interstate State Park
I Can Climb!
9 AM to 5 PM Send the family up a cliff with a real rock climbing experience designed for first-time climbers. Experience the thrill of climbing Shovel Point, the North Shore cliffs that tower over Lake Superior at Tettegouche State Park.
Hands-on instruction by trained professionals from Vertical Endeavors Guided Adventures.
No experience necessary.
Use of helmet, harness and shoes.
A supportive environment. Great for kids!
Depending on group sizes, participants will have the opportunity to ascend one or two routes.
Pre-registration is required. Click on the I Can Climb! link to sign up.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/climb.html
Tettegouche State Park
Bison Ambassador Open House
3 PM to 4 PM Come out for an information session about becoming a Bison Ambassador at Minneopa State Park. This volunteer program gives citizens an opportunity to help engage visitors about being safe around the bison and answer any related questions. At this session you will be able to find out more about the Bison Ambassador program and hear from those who have been filling this role. We will start out at the Group Campground parking lot (on the campground side of Minneopa) and head up to the Seppmann Mill to give people an idea on how this program works.
Minneopa State Park
Ripe Edibles
1 PM to 2 PM Many animals and humans alike are anticipating the arrival of late summer for its plentiful wild berries. A short walk through the trail will reveal some of these fruits of nature. Follow your nose to the Thomas C. Savage Visitor Center at Fort Snelling State Park and learn about these edible berries in the park.
Fort Snelling State Park
Whooo’s Calling? Owls!
5 PM to 6 PM Meet in the grassy area in front of the fishing pier on Lake Shumway for this family-fun program.
Savanna Portage State Park
Make Your Own Campfire
10 AM to 11 AM Campfires are a great way to spend time with family and friends, cook food, share stories, and keep the bugs away! This is a program for kids to explore how to make their own safe campfire (with supervision, of course). Join a naturalist to practice making your own mini campfire; you might even get to cook something over it! Meet at the stone shelter in the picnic grounds.
Interstate State Park
Stories in the Stars: Ojibwe Constellations
8:30 PM to 10 PM Stars have long been the center of imagination and legend. They have been used to record the stories of the past. The Ojibwe also used the stars as a way to remember the oral history of their people and marked the rise and fall of the seasons. Come discover for yourself the beautiful history of the Ojibwe people told through the stars.
We will start at Lady Slipper Lodge and then move to the picnic flow to discover the Ojibwe Constellations for ourselves.
Bug spray and flashlight recommended.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Civilian Conservation Corps Discovery Tent
1 PM to 4 PM The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) sculpted Gooseberry and many other MN State Parks into existence. Stop by to explore the remains of this rich past and learn stories from these incredible young men.
Drop by along paved trail to the Middle Falls.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Master Naturalist on the Boardwalk
11 AM to 3 PM Join our Master Naturalist on the Big Bog Boardwalk! She will be available to help answer questions and share unique facts with you about the largest patterned peatland in the lower 48 states. It?s a one-of-a-kind experience! Meet at the North Unit. A state park vehicle pass is required. Trying for the 125 Miles by Bike, Boot or Boat Challenge? This event can help you add 2 miles!
Big Bog State Recreation Area
Plantings for Pollinators: Sidewalk Stop
3 PM to 4 PM Just who are pollinators and why are they so important to humans? Discover the answer as you plant native seeds that will have butterflies, hummingbirds, bumblebees and more visiting your backyard. Drop in for this ongoing program from 3-4 PM in front of the visitor center.
Interstate State Park
Beaver Bingo
8 PM to 9 PM Leave it to beavers to be nature’s best architects! From building massive lodges to dams that change an entire ecosystem. Come and play Beaver Bingo and take the chance to win an amazing prize!
Meet at the Interpretive Center Amphitheater. Bug spray recommended.
Sibley State Park
Gotta Hike Em All!
11 AM to 12 PM
Sibley State Park
Description:
Join a naturalist on the trails as we go on a safari to catch some new friends for your dex while learning about the habitat they occupy here in the park. Get your steps in to hatch your eggs along with a head start on the 125 Minnesota state parks boot, boat and bike challenge! Join us a half hour before and after the program for the benefits of a lure at our interpretive center.
Meets outside the interpretive center and starts promptly. Hat, sunscreen and water bottle suggested. Have the Pokemon Go app pre-installed on your smart device. Outlets for charging devices available in the downstairs theater and trail center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Remember to stay on our designated trails and respect the wildlife and other park visitors around you. Using the vibrate function to detect Pokemon is the safest when on trails, roads and high traffic areas. More Information Call 320-354-2055.
Directions: On U.S. Hwy. 71, 15 miles north of Willmar.
Gotta Hike Em All!
2 PM to 3 PM Join a naturalist on the trails as we go on a safari to catch some new friends for your dex while learning about the habitat they occupy here in the park. Get your steps in to hatch your eggs along with a head start on the 125 Minnesota state parks boot, boat and bike challenge! Join us a half hour before and after the program for the benefits of a lure at our interpretive center.
Meets outside the interpretive center and starts promptly. Hat, sunscreen and water bottle suggested. Have the Pokemon Go app pre-installed on your smart device. Outlets for charging devices available in the downstairs theater and trail center. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Remember to stay on our designated trails and respect the wildlife and other park visitors around you. Using the vibrate function to detect Pokemon is the safest when on trails, roads and high traffic areas.
Program will start at 2pm at Monson Lake. If you want to caravan with the naturalist please meet at the Interpretive Center at 1:30pm.
Monson Lake State Park
08/28/2016
I Can Fish – Trout Fishing
10:30 AM to 12 PM Join us at the South Picnic Area for some fishing fun! Equipment will be provided at this activity designed to introduce trout fishing to inexperienced anglers, families and youth groups. Youngsters must be accompanied by an adult. Bring your own bait; worms often work best. Fishing licenses and trout stamps are not required when fishing during the activity. This program will be offered at Whitewater every Sunday through September 4.
Whitewater State Park
Picnic Gathering: Sharing Community Gathering
11 AM to 3 PM Come join us as we host a community gathering with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Pack a picnic and bring your friends and family to share a day of fun and learning with our closest Ojibwe neighbors.
Jay Cooke State Park
Grinding Day
11 AM to 4 PM Witness the restored gristmill and steam engine grind flour the old-fashioned way! Listen to Lars Larson as he describes life at the mill and get a feel for life in the nineteenth century. The pioneer cabin will be open for viewing and fresh stone-ground flour will be available for purchase.
Old Mill State Park
Pothole Exploration Tour
12 PM to 1 PM Discover how lakes of lava and gushing glacial waters formed the park’s unique potholes as you journey over, under and through world-renowned rock features on this naturalist-guided tour. This 45-minute walk includes some uneven terrain and stairs. Meet at the visitor center.
Interstate State Park
I Can Climb!
9 AM to 5 PM Send the family up a cliff with a real rock climbing experience designed for first-time climbers. Experience the thrill of climbing Shovel Point, the North Shore cliffs that tower over Lake Superior at Tettegouche State Park.
Hands-on instruction by trained professionals from Vertical Endeavors Guided Adventures.
No experience necessary.
Use of helmet, harness and shoes.
A supportive environment. Great for kids!
Depending on group sizes, participants will have the opportunity to ascend one or two routes.
Pre-registration is required. Visit the DNR sign-up.
Tettegouche State Park
Community Concert: Lance Benson
2 PM to 3 PM Lance Benson is a seasoned and honed singer/songwriter with a refreshing outlook on life and dreams acted on. Blending folk, rock, rhythm, and blues, his songs have been created through personal experiences and observations of the world around him. Benson’s inspiration arises from the common bond he creates between his listeners and himself. His greatest satisfaction is feedback from listeners that have personally related to his music.
All Community Concerts are sponsored by the North Country Snowmobile Club of Bemidji.
Lake Bemidji State Park
Go-n-Seine
1 PM to 2 PM To study fish populations, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources use nets call Seines. This seining program will also discuss the habitat requirements of different fish species and how water quality affects fish. Follow the posted signs to meet by the backwater of the Shelter A picnic area.
Fort Snelling State Park
Pollinator Discovery Tent
1 PM to 4 PM Discover the important role pollinators play in our lives. Learn who pollinates what and create a pollinator to take home.
Stop by any time on the trails to the falls.
Look For the Tent!
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Falls View Hike
11 AM to 12 PM Come witness the rich history of Gooseberry Falls State Park as we hike around the falls. Don’t forget your camera. Hike includes descending stairs on this 3/4 mile walk.
Meet at the Visitor Center Art Column.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Wheel of Fishy Facts
2 PM to 3 PM Do you know which fish can live over a hundred years? Drop by this ongoing activity to test your knowledge of the incredible fish hiding within the St. Croix River. Find us near the visitor center between 2 and 3 p.m.
Interstate State Park
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