DNR news release: Free admission at state parks on June 14

DNR NEWS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                             June 12, 2014

Minnesota state parks celebrate National Get Outdoors Day
with free admission and family fun on June 14

The Department of Natural Resources will waive the requirement for a vehicle permit ($5 one-day or $25 year-round) and provide free admission at all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas on Saturday, June 14 in celebration of National Get Outdoors Day. The goal of National Get Outdoors Day is to introduce first-time visitors, especially families with young children, to the fun of outdoor recreation at state parks, state trails, fishing piers and other public lands.

Free programs—Special programs taking place statewide include fly-fishing workshops at Camden State Park, archery at Afton State Park, a bird hike at Tettegouche State Park and naturalist-led pontoon tours on Lake Bemidji at Lake Bemidji State Park. See the complete list, with times and locations, at www.mndnr.gov (www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/getoutdoorsday.html).

Free loaner equipment—Most parks allow visitors to check out GPS units, binoculars, fishing gear and Kids Discovery Kits (featuring activities, stories and tips to help ensure a child’s park visit will be fun and memorable). For more information on where to find the free stuff—not just on National Get Outdoors Day but every day—visit www.mndnr.gov (www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/loaner.html).

Trip planning resources—Looking for somewhere to bike, hike, paddle, check out waterfalls, swim, fish, geocache or participate in naturalist-led nature programs? Narrow down the options by browsing the Summer Guide (www.mndnr.gov/summerguide) or using the DNR’s new ParkFinder (www.dnr.state.mn.us/parkfinder/index.html) to find the destination with the best combination of activities and amenities for your family’s particular needs and interests.

Information is also available by contacting the DNR Information Center at info.dnr@state.mn.us, 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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