MN Nature in St Paul, Minnesota, is the place to be for outdoor activities and volunteer opportunities state-wide! We’re the go-to stop to plan your adventures for the week. The best part? All events are FREE unless otherwise specifically noted. All are welcome! And this week is extra special because it’s National Get Outdoors Day June 10!
Some people ask us, “Why would you list events for free?” For us it’s simple. We want to share all that’s going on in our great White North for others to enjoy and we hope by exposure to nature you’ll get active in protecting our forests, waters, prairies, blue skies, and wild creatures for generations to come.
Sometimes the best way to show your appreciation for the resources that are there is to get outside and have some fun! Nature appreciation is one very special universal language–so, Let’s go! Auf geht es! la oss gå! Vamos! Да вървим! Chodźmy! să mergem! 我们走吧! Jdeme! चलो चलें! balikan natin! We gaan! Поехали! Allons-y! בוא נלך! los wb mus! gyerünk! Andiamo! 行きましょう! 가죠! Đi thôi! mi awn ni! لنذهب!
06/05/17
WMA Vacate Hearing
2:00 PM
Bemidji, MN 56601 DNR Bemidji Headquarters, 2220 Bemidji Ave N. Bemidji, MN 56601
Mille Lacs Fisheries Advisory Committee
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM This will be a working business meeting of the Mille Lacs Fisheries Advisory Committee (MLFAC). The MLFAC is a group of citizen volunteers who provide input to DNR on management on Lake Mille Lacs. The public is invited to attend and observe this meeting, and approximately 15 mintues will be provided at the end of the meeting for public questions and comments.
Garrison City Hall, 27069 Central St, Garrison, MN
06/06/17
Turtle Tuesdays Series
2 PM to 3 PM Turtle Tuesday is back! Join the naturalist, a painted turtle and a snapping turtle for summer fun every Tuesday June- August.
Sibley State Park
06/07/17
Outreach at Benson Library: Water World
10–11 AM Today the naturalist will come to you! Join the naturalist at the Benson library for a story time and active program. We will be diving into the world of water so you may want to prepare for a little extra splash!
Sibley State Park
Learn the Skill of Fly Casting! Mini-workshop (Workshop Full)
1–3 PM Workshop Full- if you would like to be put on a waiting list, Call 218-699-7251.
Itasca State Park
H.O.P. Into the Park: Tips for Taking Great Outdoor Photos *Older Adult Opportunity
10 AM to 12 PM The H.O.P. Into the Park program (Healthy Older People) is offered once a month to provide opportunities for older adults to gather for social time and to learn about nature. Each program will begin with coffee and conversation near the bird feeding windows at the visitor center followed by a formal naturalist presentation. In June, we will learn outdoor photography tips from Rochester Post Bulletin Outdoor Columnist, John Weiss. Bring in some of your outdoor photos and John will give you some advice.
Whitewater State Park
06/08/17
Nature Time at the Beach
1 PM to 2 PM Hey kids, join a naturalist for some hands-on exploration of nature. Each time will be a different topic.
Whitewater State Park
MN River Valley Recreation & Conservation Master Plan Open House
4:30 PM to 7:30 PM This master plan open house provides an opportunity for the public to visit with the planning team from Redwood County, Renville County, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the Master Plan. Stakeholders can submit written comments and ask questions of the planning team. The draft plan and wall maps will be available for viewing.
Redwood Falls Public Library Community meeting room, 509 S. Lincoln St., Redwood Falls, MN
Prairie Preschool —Volunteer Opportunity
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Little naturalists, ages 2-6,are welcome each Thursday for Prairie Preschool. We will explore themes using play, stories, hands on activities, and short walks. Children of all ages welcome but lessons are designed for early learners. Program starts near the swimming pond in the park. 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 shelter near the swimming pond. If you are interested in volunteering for this program, please contact andrea.wakely@state.mn.us
Buffalo River State Park
Become an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Volunteer
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Citizens who are interested in informing the public about aquatic invasive species and how to slow their spread can receive AIS volunteer or ambassador training from the Watercraft Inspection Program staff. This training includes information on how to educate members of the public on AIS and how to prevent the spread.
Brainerd DNR Office (Minnesota Drive Brainerd MN 56401) – Lower Level Conference Room
06/09/17
Nature Time at the Beach
1 PM to 2 PM Hey kids, join a naturalist for some hands-on exploration of nature. Each time will be a different topic.
Whitewater State Park
Signs of Bigfoot
8 PM to 9 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 elusive Bigfoot and see what you can learn about this legendary creature. Meet at Lady Slipper Lodge Amphitheater.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Wagons West
7 PM to 8 PM As settlers moved East to West across the continent they were enchanted by the view of Blue Mounds as it loomed before them on the horizon. Join us on top of the mound at the visitor center, where master story teller Jim Wallen will tell you tales of Westward bound settlers, looking to make a new life.
Blue Mounds State Park
Friday Fun Day
12 PM to 1 PM Pack up the family and visit Sibley for an hour of an interactive naturalist time! We might play a game or go fishing or geocache! Something new every time! Bring a nature object to share for show and tell.
Sibley State Park
Insect Observation for Adults and Master Naturalists
11 AM to 12 PM Join the naturalist and a mature audience for a scientific approach to learning and exploring the natural world. Each week we’ll explore a new topic. This is a great way to keep you Master Naturalist hours up to date. Everyone welcome. Meet in the Interpretive Center Theater. Please call or email ahead of time so sign up. 320-354-2002
Sibley State Park
Geocache Challenge
3 PM to 4 PM Communicate with outer space AND find treasure! Meet the naturalist at Lake Andrew by the store to figure out how to do both of these amazing things. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Sibley State Park
Intro to Birding
6 PM to 7 PM Join a park naturalist on an evening hike on the Pondview Trail to learn the basics of birding and beginners techniques for identifying birds in the field. A limited amount of binoculars are available, so bringing your own is recommended. Meet outside of the Interpretive Center. Tick protection and bug spray are recommended.
Sibley State Park
Full Moon Hike
9:30–10:30 AM Hot summer nights require slow, full moon hikes. Join the naturalist for a slow paced stroll along the packed trail of the Pond View Trail. Meet at the outside Interpretive Center Amphitheater. This hike is stroller appropriate but on a dirt trail. You may want to bring bug spray and flash light to help guide you back to camp.
Sibley State Park
Monarch Monitoring at Bluestem Prairie SNA —Volunteer Opportunity
6 PM to 7 PM Does your heart soar when a monarch flutters by? Are you concerned about the future of monarch butterflies and prairie habitat? This class is an opportunity to participate in collecting data for the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (monarchlab.org), a study that depends on the involvement of citizens like you! During this hour long program you will learn how to identify monarch eggs and larvae and walk to Bluestem Prairie SNA to collect data for the MLMP. Program begins near the swimming pond at Buffalo River State Park.
Bluestem Prairie SNA
2017 Metallic Mineral Lease Sale
8:30 AM
DNR Lobby Conference Room, 500 Lafayette Rd. N., St. Paul MN 55155
Snakes of the Blufflands
6 PM to 7 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. Bring a camera for a picture of your loved one touching a live snake!
Whitewater State Park
Jr. Naturalist: Pond Study
2–3 PM Held at Wegmann’s pond, located by the Wegmann Store in the Picnic Grounds. Meet the water dwellers in your local pond, stream or lake. What are the special features that help them survive in the water? Join us as we dip, scoop and snoop at the little aquatic critters.
Itasca State Park
Strawberry Moon Presentation
8–9 PM June is known as the Strawberry Moon in local Ojibwe culture. Learn about the delightful strawberry as well as other berries that grow in the park. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center.
Jay Cooke State Park
06/10/17
Nature Hike: Summer in the City
9 AM to 10:30 AM What impact do trains, planes and automobiles have on the plants and animals at Fort Snelling State Park? Join a park naturalist for a walking discussion about nature in Minnesota’s most urban state park. Dress for the weather and meet at the visitor center.
Fort Snelling State Park
Flatwater Kayaking Essentials for Women – Ages 14+
9 AM–Noon Through hands-on experience with qualified instructors, learn beginning kayak safety, proper paddling form, and paddle strokes while surrounded by the beauty of the park. Equipment is provided. Reservations required.
Bryant Lake Regional Park, Eden Prairie
Spring BOW Family Workshop $$$
06/10/17 – 06/11/17 Family weekend workshops are a great way to unplug from your home, and reconnect with each other as well as the great outdoors. Classes include: archery, geocaching, fishing, rifle range, ropes course, canoeing, and more! Lodging, meals, instruction and equipment are provided for one low price of $90/person or $335 for a family of four. Registration brochure available at www.mndnr.gov/education/bow in March 2017.
Eagle Bluff ELC, Lanesboro
Women’s Archery Class
9-11 AM Want to learn how to shoot a bow in a safe, supervised setting? Get hands on instruction from a certified instructor. All equipment provided. Please park by the picnic grounds. The program is held outside, so dress appropriately.
Afton State Park
Pro-Tips! Walleye Trip, Glenwood MN
06/10/17 – 06/11/17 Pro angler Nancy Koep is leading a walleye fishing trip in Glenwood. Weekend includes, lodging, seminar and on-water fishing. Equipment provided.
Glenwood MN
National Get Outdoors Day
Celebrate “National Get Outdoors Day” at Zippel Bay State Park! On this day, vehicle permits are not required to enter the park. Come explore the park, go for a hike, fish, swim, or have a picnic on your own.
Zippel Bay State Park
National Get Outdoors Day – Bog Flowers on the Boardwalk
10AM–Noon Admission is free to all Minnesota State Parks today and the Big Bog is in bloom! View rare plant life from the boardwalk and trails. Learn about the unique growing conditions found in the bog and listen for the birds that make their home here. Bring your water bottle, camera and comfortable shoes. Meet at the North Unit parking lot.
Big Bog State Recreation Area
Stargazing
9 AM Local amateur astronomer Joe Hauger will be at the park Saturday June 10 for a stargazing night. Come and see Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, and the moon through a telescope, and learn some of the basic summer constellations. This is the best time of the year for Saturn since it will be at its closest approach this coming week. Saturn rises at sunset and remains visible all night long. Jupiter will be big and bright in the southern sky as well.
Upper Sioux Agency State Park
Snakes of Forestville
10–11 AM Learn which snakes you might see in the park and how to tell the difference between a rattlesnake and many similar looking non-venomous snakes in the area. You will also have the opportunity to see a live timber rattlesnake. Meet at the amphitheater.
Forestville Mystery Cave State Park
Archery in the Park- National Get Outdoors Day
12:30–3 OM 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). Participants will be able to practice their new skills on the range by taking a turn shooting arrows at targets. Some come learn a new life long skill.
Lake Carlos State Park
National Get Outdoors Day: Geocaching, Tours and Activities
7–8:30 PM Singer/songwriters Gene LaFond and Amy Grillo will entertain with their folksy, old-time country tunes. Bring a snack and join us under the Visitor Center Picnic Shelter for this free concert.
Glacial Lakes State Park
Archery in the Park
12:30 PM to 3 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). Participants will be able to practice their new skills on the range by taking a turn shooting arrows at targets. Some come learn a new life long skill.
Glendalough State Park
Concert in the Park – Gene LaFond and Amy Grillo
7–8:30 PM Singer/songwriters Gene LaFond and Amy Grillo will entertain with their folksy, old-time country tunes. Bring a snack and join us under the Visitor Center Picnic Shelter for this free concert.
Tettegouche State Park
River in a Day
Help us paddle every river mile of the Minnesota River in one day! How much can we get paddled? Can we create a river-long flotilla? Contact Alexander Watson at 507-359-6062
Minnesota River State Water Trail
Raptors of the Great Lakes Region
2–3 PM Hawks, eagles, owls and more; raptors are some of the strongest and most fierce hunters soaring the skies above us. Get the inside scoop on the unique characteristics these birds possess from Chris Cold, a most-interesting guy to listen to, who will be visiting from the Wisconsin DNR. His first-person stories and fascinating facts are sure to be enjoyed by everyone. With him will be a selection of live raptors for you to get an up-close look at!
Wild River State Park
Pop-up Performance with Blue Hazard in the Mobile Art Gallery
6:30–8 PM Neighbors, campers and day visitors are invited to enjoy a lively evening along the St. Croix River for a modern Bluegrass concert. Special guests Blue Hazard will bring their fiddles, mandolins and stand-up bass to Afton State Park for a joyful concert in ArtReach St. Croix’s new Mobile Art Gallery. You can bring a blanket or your favorite camping chair to enjoy the show and pack a picnic supper to make an evening of it. After the toe-tapping tunes you can meet the musicians and hear about their instruments and musical traditions.
Afton State Park
Archery Range Open, Afton State Park
1–3 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. Stop by the Picnic Area any time between 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.
Afton State Park
Women’s Archery Class, Afton State Park
9–11 AM 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.
Afton State Park
Bird Watching Basics
7:30 AM to 10 AM Bird Watching is becoming one of the most popular outdoor activities in the United States. It can be a great way to learn about your local birds, or to simply figure out what that odd bird call is! Northern Minnesota has an amazingly diverse set of species and is a truly wonderful place to find many of the birds that some folks rarely have the chance to see! On this hike, we will learn about the basics of bird watching. We will learn about binoculars, field guides, how to ID the tricky species, and find a few birds all the while enjoying an easy morning hike. Please bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Meet at the park’s picnic shelter located on McCarthy Beach.
McCarthy Beach State Park
Minnesota Zoomobile Presentations
1–4 Live animals, biological artifacts, theater techniques, storytelling, and audience participation are all part of a fun program by a Zoomobile Naturalist to create and establish a sense of stewardship and respect for the diversity and complexity of all life on earth. In this 45-minute presentation, the naturalist will present several captivating animals and describe their important roles in nature. There are two presentations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. An ice cream social will be held in between the two programs. Both the program and ice cream social are sponsored by the Friends of Minneopa, a nonprofit
Minneopa State Park
Minnesota River Paddle
10–2 Go for a paddle on the Minnesota River from Mack Lake County Park to Highway 4 for a total of 8.5 miles. On this stretch of the river we will be paddling through bottomland forest and see Fort Ridgely Creek flowing into the Minnesota. We will stop at least once along the way to stretch our legs and talk about some of the unique features and characteristics of the Minnesota River that flows almost 318 miles from Big Stone Lake to the Twin Cities. Please register by contacting Scott Kudelka at 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@state.mn.us
Fort Ridgely State Park
Plein Air Painting Demonstration and Talk with Kami Mendlik
9–11 AM The St. Croix River becomes both inspiration and art studio as accomplished painter Kami Mendlik demonstrates plein air painting along its shores. Join Kami at 9 a.m. for a demonstration and talk as she shares how passion for the river drives her art. Painter and instructor, Kami Mendlik founded the St Croix River School of Painting and has spent most of her life along the banks of the St. Croix studying its constant: the ever changing. Meet near the picnic area boat landing (campground entrance of the park). The program will be canceled in the event of heavy rain.
Interstate State Park
Minnesota Raptors–Live!
1–2 PM Come learn what makes a raptor different from other types of birds: hunting styles, what they eat, where they nest, and “whooooo” might be living in your backyard! Chris Tolman from the Nature Connection will bring several live Minnesota raptors to the park, providing a great opportunity to get an up-close look at these magnificent birds. This will be a fun and engaging program for all ages.
Lake Bemidji State Park
Best of the Bears
11 AM Professional photographer Steve Kohls will share a slideshow, along with stories of his travels to areas where he photographed grizzly bears and black bears. Meet at the Interpretive Center. (45 minutes)
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Outdoor Recreation Day
11–3 PM Gather at the Beach Picnic Area for displays, demonstrations and activities about outdoor recreation. Ongoing activities include: Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Fish Identification, Kids fish casting range, T.I.P. Wall of Shame Display, and Wildlife Art for Kids.
Father Hennepin State Park
Guided Glacial Pothole Tour
Noon-1 You are invited to experience the stunning scenery and incredible story of Interstate State Park. An interpretive naturalist will lead you over, under and through world-renowned rock features on this 45-minute tour. Discover how lakes of lava and gushing glacial waters formed the unique glacial potholes and even step inside one. All ages are welcome. Expect some uneven terrain and stairs. Meet at the visitor center at 12 PM for the tour.
Interstate State Park
Reptiles & Amphibians
7–8 PM The Audubon Center of the North Woods will be joining us to teach about the reptiles and amphibians of Minnesota! Learn about what makes these animal groups unique and special adaptations that help them survive in the wild. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center.
Jay Cooke State Park
The World of Water-Open House
11–3 PM Join us during this ongoing event to learn about the amazing world of water! There will be lots to explore, including interactive learning stations with activities, informative booths, and crafts. Meet at the River Inn Interpretive Center.
Jay Cooke State Park
Geocaching 101 – Call of the Wildflowers!
10:30–Noon With expert geocacher, Andy McCracken, discover the fascinating challenge of geocaching and how you can use it to explore Minnesota State Parks’ hidden treasures. You will learn how to use a GPS unit, and then head out in the park to find some specially placed caches. A limited number of GPS units will be available for this modern-day treasure hunt. So please call the park office at 651-433-0500 to sign up. After the class, you will earn a special 2017 Wildflower Card! Attend a class to earn yours! Meet at the Visitor Center!
William O’Brien State Park
Prairie Wildflower Walk
1 PM Explore the early season wildflowers, grasses, and sedges of this southwest Minnesota prairie. Bring your cameras and field guides to identify and capture the beauty found in this river landscape.
Des Moines River SNA
Who’s living in the Bluebird House?
3–5 PM Join us at Meadowbrook office to learn about the Bluebird nest boxes that are located around the state park. The park ranger will talk about different birds that nest in the boxes and how to identify the bird and their nest. We will go on a short hike to look at who is using the next boxes. The Display used is courtesy of the Big Stone County 4-H Shooting Sports club.
Big Stone Lake State Park
Birding at Bear Head
8 AM to 10 AM Meet at the park office for a guided walk to listen and look for the variety of bird species within the park. A limited number of binoculars will be available for free checkout or bring your own. Dress for the weather, insect repellent is recommended. Meet at the Park Office.
Bear Head Lake State Park
Planets-Jupiter & Saturn
9 PM to 10:30 PM Join local Northern Sky Astronomical Society members for a look through variety of telescopes. Program begins before sunset with a presentation on the planets you will be viewing.
Red River State Recreation Area
Fast Flyers: Peregrine Falcons
2–4 The fastest bird in the world nests along the North Shore. Listen to its story of recovery and the people who helped. Join Jackie Fallon of the Midwest Peregrine Society to learn about these remarkable birds and meet LIVE birds. Drop by the Visitor Center Auditorium.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
What About Rocks
8–9 PM Listen to the rocks as they tell of lava flows, glaciers and roaring rivers. Learn to distinguish between the common rocks of the North Shore. Discover the creation of the Lake Superior agate and hone in on your rock identification skills. Meet at Lady Slipper Lodge.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
The Story of Hugh Glass
6:30 PM to 8 PM In 2016, the movie “The Revenant” told the story of fur trader Hugh Glass. However, many years before Minnesota author Frederick Manfred told Hugh Glass’s story in his book “Lord Grizzly”. Join Mr. Manfred’s daughter and son-in-law, Freya Manfred and Tom Pope, for a discussion of the two books, how they compare, and how they differ. Meet at the park visitor center.
Blue Mounds State Park
Morning Bird Walk
7:15 AM Meet at the Visitor Center to start the morning with a bird walk. Our route will depend on conditions at the time. Bring binoculars, bird guides, some water and bug spray. The park has a few pairs of binoculars to lend out. Meet at the Visitor Center at 7:15 am and plan to be out til about 8:30 am.
Lake Bemidji State Park
Pedal into the Past
10–Noon The stories of Sibley lie buried under the roots of oaks and prairie grasses. Join the naturalist on a guided bike ride that will bring the stories of those who used to live here to life. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Bikes not provided and helmets mandatory. We will travel on our paved bike trail, although some bumps do exist on the trail. This ride will also travel along the main road for a short amount of time.
Sibley State Park
Go In-Seine
3–4 PM Use a seine net and more to take a look at how healthy Lake Andrew is and meet the critters that swim next you while you take a dip. Meet at the Lake Andrew Beach and be ready to get a little wet! Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Sibley State Park
Go Fish!
7 PM to 8 PM Meet at the Interpretive Center amphitheater. Program will be held in the theater in inclement weather, including thunder.
Sibley State Park
Take a Kid Trout Fishing Day
8:30–Noon Whitewater State Parks 18th annual Take a Kid Trout Fishing Day is designed to help youngsters ages 10 to 15 start trout fishing. Guides from the Win Cres Trout Unlimited Chapter will take small groups of kids and parents to different parts of the Whitewater River within the park. Kids will learn how to rig a pole, where to cast and how to release fish safely. Lunch is provided. All children must be accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone. Participants are encouraged to wear rubber boots or shoes that can get muddy and long socks and pants to protect skin from wood nettles along the riverbanks. To sign up, email sara.holger@state.mn.us or call 507-932-3007 ext 226.
Whitewater State Park
Love Notes to the River: A Tributary Tribute
2–4 PM Creeks, streams and rivers flow through our landscapes and our lives. They are part of our childhoods, our memories with friends, our adventures and sometimes our dreams. Visit this interactive display as you help create a picture of what the St. Croix River means to those who encounter it, one handwritten note or drawing at a time. Stop by this ongoing station at the park visitor center to see the notes that others have left behind and to add your own.
Interstate State Park
Citizen Science Workshop: Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project
9:30–Noon Learn about monarch biology and how to contribute data to the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project from your own backyard. You?ll gain hands-on practice with several data collection activities and you will leave knowing how to choose and monitor a single plant or site, enter your data on-line, and what is being done for prairie conservation locally. This is for the beginner or advanced citizen scientist. The program is geared for adult learners but youth are the best at monarch monitoring and are encouraged to attend along with an adult. This is a free public program.
Fargo Main Public Library
Canoe the Minnesota River
8:30–1 Join I Can Paddle instructors on a canoe paddle down the Minnesota River! Six Canoes and all equipment are available on a first come basis. We will meet at the Thompson Ferry Public Water Access and paddle 8.1 miles to the Carver Public Water Access. Bring water, sunscreen, lunch and snacks, a hat and sunglasses. Trip will last approximately 4 hours, depending on water conditions. Contact Alexander Watson at 507-359-6062
Thompson Ferry Water Access to Carver Water Access
Kayak the Minnesota River
8:30 AM to 1 PM Join I Can Paddle instructors on a kayak paddle down the Minnesota River! Eight Kayaks and all equipment are available on a first come basis. We will meet at the Belle Plain Public Water Access and paddle 10.3 miles to the Thompson Ferry Water Access. Bring water, sunscreen, lunch and snacks, a hat and sunglasses. Trip will last approximately 4 hours, depending on water conditions.
Children must be 12 years old to participate. Contact Alexander Watson at 507-359-6062
Belle Plain Water Access to Thompson Ferry Water Access
Family Outdoor Fair – State Park Open House Day
12 PM to 3 PM Join us on this Minnesota State Park Open House Day to come and go as you please between outdoor activity stations. Get information to help your family get outdoors and explore the area?s natural resources. Try your hand at archery, fly tying, geocaching, canoeing, bird watching and much more! Children must be ages 8 or older to participate in the archery activity.
Whitewater State Park
Return of the Peregrine Falcon
5 PM to 6 PM In 2009, peregrine falcons returned to nest on the cliffs of Whitewater State Park! Meet at the Nature Store for a short walk to observe the nest site. With spotting scopes and binoculars it is likely we will see adults and young.
Whitewater State Park
Geocaching 101 – Call of the Wildflowers!
William O’Brien State Park
06/11/17
Music under the Pines: First City Handbell Choir
Lake Bemidji 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
Pioneer Farmer Tour
10 AM to 12 PM Tour begins at the Levorsen Building located on the Pioneer Farmer showgrounds.* The showground is located on the north side of Itasca State Park. Go out the North Entrance to Itasca State Park, entrance is on the east side of the North Entrance Road (across from the church and gas station).*Tour begins promptly at 10 a.m.
Itasca State Park
National Get Outdoors Day Celebration
10 AM to 3 PM Celebrate “National Get Outdoors Day” at Camden State Park! On this day, vehicle permits are not required to enter the park. Come explore the park, go for a hike, fish, swim, or have a picnic on your own.
Fly Casting Clinics will run on the hour starting at 1PM, rods & gear can be provided. Call the park for reservations.
Rootbeer floats available in the Beach Area from 11 to 1 PM
Camden State Park
Headwater History By Bike
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM Meet along the bike trail at the Lake Itasca Boat Access (by Itasca Sports) Peddle into Itasca’s past as we learn about early park pioneers, the boys of the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp), early native cultures and the explorers searching for the source of the Mississippi River. NOTES: Bring your own bike, helmet and water bottle. Or rent your bike from Itasca Sports prior to the start of the tour.
Itasca State Park
KNOW THIS
Minnesota has regulations on what can be harvested and hunted from the wild and when it can be harvested. The regulations include license (for example, for boats), permits (for example, a fishing license), and certifications (for example, gun safety glasses and boating safety regulations) and are required to hunt and gather based on the specific activity and sometimes location (for example, rivers need a special extra license for boating). For shooting sports you may also This helps maintain species levels in a balanced way with humans and the environment. This is regulated by the MN DNR (Department of Natural Resources). The DNR has traditionally based their decisions for “open seasons” on factual gathering of information and scientific interpretation. They also take into account “human input.” How do you want your Minnesota to look in the future? The best way to get involved is to get involved! Your voice does matter. The DNR hosts citizen committees and meetings open for public input. MN Nature posts public meeting announcements within the weekly activities posts.
Hunting Seasons Are Open Now . . .
04/01/17 – 11/30/17 Flathead Catfish – 2017 Season
04/01/17 – 11/30/17 Flathead Catfish – 2017 Season
04/15/17 – 10/01/17 Stream Trout in streams, except SE – 2017 season
04/15/17 – 09/14/17 Stream Trout in streams SE – 2017 season. Dodge, Goodhue, Fillmore, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Wabasha and Winona counties only.
05/13/17 – 02/25/18 Walleye, sauger, northern pike – 2017 season
05/13/17 – 02/25/18 Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass – 2017 season -North and East of U.S. Hwy 53 from Duluth to International Falls and Pelican and Ash lakes in St. Louis County
05/13/17 – 10/01/17 Lake Trout (summer) – 2017 season
05/27/17 – 02/25/18 Largemouth Bass – 2017 season -South and West of US Hwy 53 from Duluth to International Falls except Pelican and Ash Lakes in St. Louis County
05/27/17 – 09/10/17 Smallmouth Bass – 2017 Season -South and West of U.S. Hwy 53 from Duluth to International Falls except Pelican and Ash lakes in St. Louis County
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