The Traveler - Stargazing Tips and Campfire Cooking
Minnesota State Parks and Trails The Traveler August 2014
William O'Brien State Park Located on the St. Croix River, just an hour north of the Twin Cities, William O'Brien State Park offers lots of ways to have outdoor fun. You can hike the wooded trails, canoe the St. Croix, swim in Lake Alice, catch a naturalist program, or snuggle up in a camper cabin overnight.
The List - Nightlife Activities Sure, you could just go to sleep at night. But when you're out in a Minnesota state park there's so much more to do after dark! In August, you can learn about the Night Sky of the Northwoods at Soudan Underground Mine State Park or join Mike Lynch of WCCO Radio for a constellation tour of the night sky at Lake Shetek State Park. In September, stop by Buffalo River State Park for Astronomy Night or visit Fort Ridgley State Park for Moonlight Golf! For more fun park activities, click here.
Campfire Cookin' - Porky-Pines on a Stick This month, we have a dinner that's as fun to make as it is to eat! Try experimenting with different patterns and shapes for each breadstick. Dare we say, it's okay to play with your food? Plus, it's versatile - perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
1 (12 oz.) package fully-cooked sausage links
1 (11 oz.) tube refrigerated breadsticks
Spear sausage on a roasting fork or stick. Open tube and separate breadsticks. Coil one breadstick around each sausage link, pinching the ends to seal. Rotate slowly over hot coals until bread is browned and sausage is heated through. Serve with maple syrup for dipping.
How'd it taste?! Share your campfire cookin' stories with us on Twitter @mnstateparks.
Traveler Tips - Stargazing Take your kids outside after dark and enjoy spotting stars and counting constellations. There's no need for special equipment; all you need to start are your eyes!
Find or download a star chart (or planisphere).
Pick a night that's clear and dark.
Find a good viewing spot away from light - like a state park!
Once outside, allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the dark.
Turn on your flashlight, covering the light with red paper to help keep your night vision strong.
Consult your star chart.
Look up! See if you can identify any of the constellations on the chart.
Interested in knowing more about stargazing? Get to know the night skies and learn more about it by attending one of the free, 90-minute Universe in the Parks programs, presented by the University of Minnesota Astronomy Department. Just bring your cosmic curiosity. Telescopes will be available.
Upcoming Events - Nature Life
Thursday, Aug. 14: Do you want your kids to spend more time outside? Visit Jay Cooke State Park for fun games and safe activities to try in your own backyard. This week, we're exploring the world of water!
Friday, Aug. 15: Visit Lake Shetek State Park to learn the legend behind the Native American Dreamcatcher. You will get to make one to take home so you too can have sweet dreams.
Saturday, Aug. 16: Monarch butterflies will soon begin their migration to Mexico. Join naturalists at Soudan Underground Mine State Park as we tag the butterflies to learn more about their travels.
Thursday, Aug. 21: It's a dragonfly hunt! Get a closer look at these beautiful flying insects at a Fort Snelling State Park Damsel and Dragonfly program.
Friday, Aug. 22: Head to St. Croix State Park for Mammal Jam. Learn about our furry friends with a visit from the Lake Superior Zoomobile!
August Paddling Programs Experience Minnesota from a new perspective - the water! Spots are still available for the I Can Paddle! programs this summer.
The two-hour I Can Paddle! On the Lake program is perfect for beginners. It covers paddling basics and only $10 for three people. I Can Paddle! On the River is tailored for beginners, but it provides a little more time on the water.
