May Update - Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership

    In Minnesota, spring doesn’t truly begin until the water warms, the gear is prepped, and anglers across the state rise for the “unofficial start to summer” aka the Governor’s Fishing Opener. As I write this, we are t-minus 5 days away. It’s more than just a tradition—it’s a rite of passage, a celebration of nature’s renewal, and for many families, a great way to spend Mother’s Day weekend!

    This month’s newsletter captures that spirit of fresh beginnings and shared adventure. From the unveiling of two new public access projects along the St. Croix River to the launch of summer’s I Can! programs that invite newcomers to explore camping, paddling, biking, and fishing, Minnesota continues to invest in making the outdoors welcoming and accessible to all.

    You’ll also read about the growing leadership in our outdoor recreation industry, with the Minnesota Outdoor Business Alliance appointing its first Executive Director, and how national momentum around public lands is reinforcing the value of the work we do. As highlighted in this issue, the outdoor recreation industry isn't just a cultural cornerstone—it’s a vital economic force supporting jobs, innovation, and community connection.

    So, whether you’re casting a line this weekend or planning a future paddle down the Mississippi, we hope these stories inspire you to get outside and be part of Minnesota’s thriving outdoor tradition. Spring has arrived. Let’s make the most of it.

—The ORIP Team

Partnership Updates:

ORIP is Coming to a City Near You!

We’re going on the road soon. Starting in July, we plan to host monthly outreach events in cities throughout the state. The purpose of this engagement is to share the most recent outdoor recreation economic impact data for your community and to gather feedback to develop a five-year strategic roadmap for Minnesota’s outdoor recreation industry (to be released in 2026). More details will be shared in the coming months. If you are interested in participating or hosting, reach out to randolph.briley@state.mn.us.

Two Major Outdoor Access Projects Open on the St. Croix River, Enhancing Recreation for All Minnesotans
Minnesota’s cherished St. Croix River is even more inviting thanks to the completion of two significant outdoor recreation projects led by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in partnership with local and state agencies. From brand-new river access in Oak Park Heights to modernized and inclusive amenities at William O’Brien State Park, these developments underscore the state’s ongoing commitment to enhancing outdoor experiences for all.

New St. Croix Crossing Public Water Access Now Open
Located just north of the St. Croix Crossing Bridge in Oak Park Heights, the newly completed St. Croix Crossing Public Water Access (PWA) officially opened this spring. The site features a double boat launch, 35 parking/trailer spots, a designated area to clean and drain boats to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, and a portable toilet — all strategically placed to offer safe and seamless access to this National Wild and Scenic River.

The PWA represents the final piece of the mitigation plan tied to the construction of the St. Croix Crossing Bridge, which replaced the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge. Years of collaboration between the DNR, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Metropolitan Council, and the Union Pacific Railroad have culminated in this much-anticipated riverfront upgrade.

With this addition, the DNR now operates four boat launches along the Lower St. Croix River, enhancing recreational access and supporting local tourism.

William O’Brien State Park Reopens with Accessibility Upgrades

Meanwhile, just upriver at William O’Brien State Park, the Walter F. Mondale Day Use Area and Riverway Campground will reopen May 1 and May 2, respectively, following a year-long transformation focused on accessibility and inclusivity. Funded by state bonding and the DNR’s landmark Get Out MORE initiative — a $150 million investment to modernize Minnesota’s outdoor recreation infrastructure — these upgrades are designed with universal design principles to benefit users of all abilities.

Highlights include:

• Day Use Area: Two new accessible restrooms, a picnic shelter near Lake Alice beach, enhanced swimming beach with ADA-compliant routes, and a new accessible canoe/kayak launch.
• Riverway Campground: Renovated shower facilities, six ADA-compliant campsites, and accessible routes to the park amphitheater.
• Park Office: Accessible parking, service windows, and automatic door openers for improved service access.

“This project enhances access and welcomes new users to public lands,” said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. “It’s a great example of how Get Out MORE modernizes recreation experiences and connects Minnesotans to the outdoors.”

The Riverway Campground will initially offer rustic amenities in May, with the shower building renovations expected to be completed by June 1.

Together, these two milestones along the St. Croix River highlight Minnesota’s strong commitment to preserving natural spaces while ensuring they remain accessible, inviting, and enjoyable for future generations.

Outdoor Industry News:

MNSOBA Appoints First Executive Director
Our friends at the Minnesota Outdoor Business Alliance (MNSOBA) have found their first Executive Director. Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear, will step into the challenging (yet exciting!) role of growing this new organization from the ground up. Luckily for Lloyd, he’s not alone. MNSOBA has a fantastic steering committee working hand-in-hand to make Minnesota the best state in the country for the outdoor recreation industry. If you are interested in learning more about MNSOBA, feel free to reach out to Lloyd at: lloyd@garagegrowngear.com

Two iconic Minnesota outdoor destinations are finalists in the 2025 USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Awards.
Gooseberry Falls State Park, Minnesota’s most-visited state park in 2024, with nearly 760,000 visitors, is nominated for Best State Park. Located just north of Two Harbors on the North Shore, the park features more than 20 miles of hiking trails and dramatic views of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls.

Devil’s Kettle Trail, located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park near Grand Marais, is up for Best Hiking Trail. The trail is known for its natural mystery — a spot where the Brule River splits and half disappears into a deep hole, only reappearing downstream.

Online voting is open until noon on May 12, giving Minnesotans and nature lovers everywhere a chance to help elevate these scenic treasures to the top of the national list! 

Public Lands and Recreation Win Big in Nationwide Poll
A recent national poll by the Trust for Public Land (TPL) reveals that most Americans favor expanding and better funding public lands, rather than reducing them. The survey, which included over 4,000 participants from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, indicates strong bipartisan opposition to the sale of federal lands and cuts to land management agencies.

Key Findings:

• 71% of respondents oppose selling public lands to the highest bidder.
• 74% are against closing public lands, including facilities like campgrounds and visitor centers.
• Approximately 62% and 63% oppose funding and personnel reductions at public-land management agencies.

The TPL report also highlights the economic significance of public lands, noting that the outdoor recreation industry contributes approximately $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. In Colorado alone, this sector generated around $17.2 billion in 2023 and supported about 132,000 jobs.

Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, CEO of TPL, emphasized the growing demand for accessible public lands and outdoor recreation opportunities, stating, "People want greater protection of existing lands, and they are eager for more opportunities to explore and connect to new landscapes."

The poll's results underscore a widespread consensus among Americans on the importance of preserving and enhancing public lands for recreation, conservation, and economic benefits.

Program Highlights:

Learn to camp, paddle, fish and mountain bike in Minnesota’s great outdoors with DNR’s I Can! programs
Registration is now open for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ summer 2025 I Can! outdoor recreation programs in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.

I Can! is an award-winning series of outdoor recreation programs that help beginners learn outdoor skills in a state park setting. In addition to programs focused on the basics, there are programs for people ready to level up to a new activity like backpack camping, canoe camping, or sea kayaking. Equipment is provided for all programs, giving participants an opportunity to try the activity without investing in gear.

“Here at the DNR, we are passionate about empowering people to explore the beauty of nature and gain confidence in outdoor activities,” said Eric Pelto, special programs supervisor. “Our goal is to remove barriers that keep people from trying new outdoor activities by providing the equipment and knowledge to get started in a safe and supportive setting. These programs are perfect for individuals, friends, couples, families, and anyone looking to try something new.”

Programs are offered during the summer, beginning the first weekend in June. New this year, I Can Camp! programs extend into September, giving an extra month of learning and fun in the fall.

Registration fees are affordable, and state park vehicle permits for the program dates are included in the price. Thanks to funding from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment, the DNR can offer I Can! programs at affordable rates.

Minnesota Forward Fund
The Minnesota Forward Fund is a $400 million initiative from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) aimed at driving economic growth through business expansion and retention. It focuses on securing state matches for federal funding, such as from the CHIPS and Science Act, to create and retain jobs, stimulate investment, and support economic opportunities, particularly for low- to moderate-income residents.

The fund can be used to issue grants and loans to businesses making significant capital investments and support related projects led by communities and higher education institutions. Eligible uses include purchasing machinery and equipment, land development, infrastructure improvements, working capital, and building construction or remodeling. 

The Minnesota Forward Fund presents a significant opportunity for new and expanding businesses in the outdoor recreation industry. With its focus on supporting large capital investments, infrastructure development, and workforce expansion, the fund can help outdoor recreation businesses scale their operations, invest in new technologies, and enhance visitor experiences. Whether it's building new facilities, upgrading equipment, or launching innovative products, eligible businesses can leverage this fund, especially in combination with federal programs, to strengthen Minnesota’s outdoor recreation economy and boost local communities.

Individual business projects can receive up to $15 million in funding, with a maximum of $10 million in grants. For CHIPS Act projects, funding covers up to 15% of total costs, capped at $75 million. Grant and loan agreements can last up to ten years, and additional funds may be available from sources like the Minnesota Investment Fund. To apply, businesses must submit a formal application and a resolution of support from the local government. For more details, contact Chinwe Ngwu at chinwe.ngwu@state.mn.us or 651-259-7427.

Event Spotlight:

The Countdown is on for Minnesota’s Inaugural Paddling Opener

Kick off summer on the water at the Great River Energy Minnesota Paddling Opener, hosted by Two Paddles! Taking place on June 15, 2025, with events ranging from casual 5-mile floats to the legendary 145-mile ultra-endurance race, there’s something for every paddler—from beginners to seasoned racers. Paddle solo, tandem, or as part of a team in scenic races along the Mississippi River, all culminating at Mississippi Point Park in Champlin. Don’t miss the Post Paddle Party, which is open to all and features live bluegrass, food, family fun, and the nearby Father Hennepin Festival. Whether you’re in it for the challenge or the community, this is your chance to celebrate paddling season in true Minnesota fashion. Register by May 22 for the best rates—and get ready to make waves!

Randolph Briley (he/him)  |  Deputy Director - Outdoor Recreation

121 7th Place East, Suite 360, St. Paul, MN 55101 

C: 320-319-6692

randolph.briley@state.mn.us  |  exploreminnesota.com | outdoorindustrypartnership.com