By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
The Minnesota DNR is giving you a chance to check out a state park for free today. Public Relations Supervisor Sara Joy Berhow says it’s the first of four Free Park Days during the year.
“These free park days are one of the ways that we’re hoping to expand access to make sure people can get outside and experience all the important health and Wellness benefits there are to spending time outside in nature. – Sara Joy Berhow with the DNR, Audio Courtesy of the Minnesota News Network
The DNR will also host Free Park Days on Saturday, April 26th, Saturday, June 14th, and Friday, November 28th. Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there’s a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it’s a great opportunity to get out and explore someplace new or visit an old favorite at a new time of year!
“We know that our parks are really busy in the summer, but they’re not quite as busy in winter, so we hope that people will go outside and maybe see their favorite park in a new light at a different time of the year with some different perspectives. Or maybe. An opportunity to go try a new park.” – Sara Joy Berhow with the DNR, Audio Courtesy of the Minnesota News Network
Before traveling to a park, the DNR asks all visitors to follow the “Key 3”: First, plan to be flexible. Second, arrive prepared, check each park’s visitor alert page before traveling, and have a map with you when you arrive. Lastly, you should recreate responsibly and help preserve the parks by staying on the designated trails and collecting any trash you have.
According to the DNR at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, about 15 minutes from Northfield, all trails are clear but there is no groomed ski trails. Only the main parking lot is open during the winter.
Find More Information About the State Parks Below:
- DNR’s page about Nerstrand Big Woods State Park & Map of the Park
- DNR’s page about Sakatah Lake State Park & Map of the Park
- Interactive map of all of MN’s State Parks
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