Get off the sidelines and into state park adventures!



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"May 2025"

Two parents and two children stand together looking at wildflowers and tall grass. [ [link removed] ]

??: Frontenac State Park

Parents—in the Wild! ??️??

This May, we’re celebrating the wildest role of all: being a parent. Whether you're wrangling toddlers on a trail, teaching your teen to cast a line, or just soaking up springtime in the great outdoors, Minnesota state parks and trails are here to support your family adventures. From baby bison sightings to I Can! programs [ [link removed] ] that help families learn new skills together, this issue is full of inspiration, tips, and activities to help you make the most of the season. Let’s get out there—together!

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Off the Sidelines and into the Action ??

Parents and kids can learn together at an I Can! program.
A parent and child kayak together on a body of water. [ [link removed] ]

What if this summer, instead of watching from the sidelines, you stepped into the moment with your kids?

I Can! programs [ [link removed] ] are your family’s invitation to try something new—together. Whether it’s paddling across a sparkling lake, pitching a tent under a canopy of stars, or landing your very first fish, I Can! offers hands-on experiences designed for beginners and perfect for families. No experience? No problem. Our friendly instructors are right there with you, guiding every step of the way and making sure everyone—kids and grown-ups alike—feel safe, supported, and excited.

A parent and child mountain bike through a forest. [ [link removed] ]

Imagine the wide-eyed joy on your child’s face as they reel in a fish, the shared laughter as you set up camp for the first time, or adrenaline rush as you mountain bike through towering pines. These are the moments that become lifelong memories—the kind of summer stories your kids will never forget.

We provide the gear. You bring the curiosity. Together, you'll build the skills—and confidence—to explore Minnesota’s stunning state parks in new ways. Whether you're trying camping, canoeing, mountain biking, archery, or fishing, there’s an I Can! experience that’s just right for your family.

This is more than a program. It’s your chance to connect with nature—and each other. Let this be the year you say, “We can.” Learn more and register for a program today [ [link removed] ]. Spots fill fast!



Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge ?? 

"Let’s get reel, moms!"

This Mother’s Day weekend, May 10–11, grab your rod, reel, and kiddo. Moms across Minnesota can fish anywhere in the state without a license during this special weekend—making it the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories outdoors.

A mother and child hold out a fish while fishing on a lake. [ [link removed] ]

In 2025, the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge [ [link removed] ] is back for its third year. The free virtual challenge is open to all moms in Minnesota and is co-hosted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Student Angler Organization, and Women Anglers of Minnesota.

*How to Participate* 

Join the Minnesota Moms Fishing Challenge 2025 Facebook group and submit a photo of each fish you catch during the weekend. Snap a pic and release your fish or keep it for dinner if it’s in season. 

All participants who submit at least one fish photo will be entered into a random prize drawing, with prizes provided by the Student Angler Organization. 

*Bonus:* If you're looking for an easy and stress-free option, remember: you never need a fishing license when casting a line in a body of water located entirely within a Minnesota state park [ [link removed] ]—year-round! All you need is a valid vehicle permit and to follow fishing regulations. 



Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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Tips and TricksA parent and three young children hug together smiling in a tent at a campsite. [ [link removed] ]

??: Wild River State Park

**Camping with Kids: Your Survival Guide **

"Top tips straight from Minnesota parents."

Camping with young children may sound intimidating, but many Minnesota families have conquered campsites with kiddos in tow—and they’ve learned a few nifty tricks along the trail! We asked the Minnesota State Parks and Trails social media community [ [link removed] ] for their best advice on camping with infants and kids. Whether it’s your first night under the stars or a return trip to your favorite park, these parent-tested tips can help make your next family camping trip a success. 

A portable play area is set up next to a tent. In the play area is an infant. [ [link removed] ]

*Camping with Infants* ??


* Hiking backpacks with sun flaps let your baby enjoy the sights and nap peacefully on the trail. 
* A clamp-on highchair can be attached to a picnic table, making mealtime much easier.
* Keep your child shaded and bug-free by placing a crib sheet over a pack-and-play or setting up a screened canopy.
* Use a car seat near the campfire to keep your child secure while you relax. 
* Buntings and snowsuits work great for keeping your little one warm after sunset.

* When it's bedtime, use a travel bassinet, infant sleeping bag, or double sleeping bag for snuggling at night.

* For those with little escape artists, you can use a small luggage lock to lock the tent door at night.


Two young children hold up roasted marshmallows by a bonfire. [ [link removed] ]

*Camping with Young Kids??*


* Snacks are key. Trail time goes smoother with a well-fed little explorer. 
* Nature play beats toys. Encourage spontaneous games, exploring, and getting a little messy.
* Create a nature checklist: Kids can check off the list as they spot wildlife or find different plant species.
* Always bring extra clothes. Kids will get muddy, wet, or both.
* Let them help out at camp: carry water, set up the tent, or fetch supplies.



Don’t skip the fun! Minnesota state park [ [link removed] ]naturalist programs [ [link removed] ] offer free, kid-friendly learning and entertainment. There are also activities like the Junior Ranger program [ [link removed] ] or the I Can! programs [ [link removed] ] to teach children outdoor skills that may come in handy on your camping trip.

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

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Three baby bison look out over tall grass with mama bison behind them. [ [link removed] ]

??: Minneopa State Park

Baby Bison at Blue Mounds and Minneopa

"Born to roam! "

Each spring, something special happens on the prairie at *Blue Mounds [ [link removed] ]* and *Minneopa* [ [link removed] ] state parks: the arrival of baby bison, often called “red dogs” due to their cinnamon-colored coats. Calves are usually orange and red in color for a few months until their hair starts to change to a dark brown.  

At *Blue Mounds State Park [ [link removed] ]*, by the end of the birthing season each year around 20-30 new arrivals will join the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd. Visitors may spot calves nursing, running beside their mothers, or resting in the sun. When seeking a glimpse of bison babies, park naturalists emphasize watching from a distance, using binoculars, and staying on designated trails both for safety and to ensure the herd remains undisturbed. 

To get a closer look at the bison, Blue Mounds hosts Prairie and Bison Tours [ [link removed] ]. This year, tours will start back up on May 22. Discover the sights and smells of native prairie as you travel into the bison range on an hour and a half educational tour. 

Another way to spot a Minnesota bison herd is at *Minneopa State Park [ [link removed] ]*. Visitors can take Bison Drive Road [ [link removed] ] around a 325-acre bison range and enjoy pre-recorded interpretive information over their radios. Take advantage of the Seppmann Mill Overlook to help spot the herd. Bison Drive hours are Thursday-Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. The drive is closed on Wednesdays for maintenance.  

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A mother bear and her two cubs look on cautiously from the edge of a clearing. [ [link removed] ]

??: Jill and Brian Duncan, Zippel Bay State Park

Mama Bears and Springtime Safety

"Be BearWise this spring "??

As spring unfolds across Minnesota, black bears are emerging from hibernation. Black bears in Minnesota typically leave their dens in early April, including new mothers leading their 3-month-old cubs into the world for the first time. Black bears are a natural part of the landscape in many Minnesota state parks, and while sightings are uncommon in most locations, visitors should be mindful and respectful when exploring areas where bears may live. Brush up on BearWise [ [link removed] ] best practices below to have a safe spring enjoying the outdoors.

*Bear Safety Tips:* 

?? *Plan Ahead and Prepare* 


* Use designated campsites and secure food storage methods to reduce bear-human conflict. 

* If you’re camping and plan to cook strongly scented food, consider bringing clothes for cooking and different clothes for sleeping. Store “cooking” clothes in your locked car or a bear-resistant container when finished. 

* Evergreen treeDispose of Waste Properly* 


* Store garbage, food scraps, coolers, and pet food in your locked car or in bear-resistant containers. Bears can open car doors, make sure to lock your car! 

* Many state parks and recreation areas provide a bear-proof trash container somewhere in the campground. Make it a habit to dispose your trash there after each meal, and clean your dishes, grills, and cooking areas right away.

?? *Share the Trail* 


* If you spot a bear, give it space, and alert other hikers. 

* "Always" keep dogs leashed and under control to prevent negative wildlife encounters. 

*??* *Respect Wildlife* 


* Never approach or feed bears. Enjoy from a distance. If you encounter a bear, stand still and group up if you’re with others. If the bear approaches, do not run. Instead, yell “Hey Bear," wave your arms to look bigger, and use bear spray if you have it.

Learn More [ [link removed] ]



Best in the Nation Nominations ??

"*Vote for Minnesota state park and trail to be #1 in the nation.*"

Minnesota state parks and trails are the best, and we need your help to prove it! USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards has nominated not one, but two beloved Minnesota gems in this year’s round of categories!


* *Gooseberry Falls State Park [ [link removed] ]* has been nominated for Best State Park.
* Devil’s Kettle Trail and waterfall (*Judge C.R. Magney State Park* [ [link removed] ]) have been nominated for Best Hiking Trail.

Because it’s readers’ choice, we need your vote to be #1! You can vote in each category *"once a day"* until May 12. Winners of each category will be announced Wednesday, May 21 at 11 am CDT. Let’s show the country how much we love our state parks and trails!

Under a starry sky, multiple waterfalls flow down a rocky outcrop into a river. [ [link removed] ]
*Vote for Gooseberry Falls State Park ✅ [ [link removed] ]*


Two waterfalls flow from a river. One fall continues downstream, the other flows into a rocky cavern. [ [link removed] ]
**Vote for Devil's Kettle Trail ✅ [ [link removed] ]**




The Adventure Begins ????️

Know a young explorer who is about to fly the coop? Or maybe some soon-to-be empty nesters looking to strike out on their own again? A Minnesota state parks gift card [ [link removed] ] is a perfect send-off for grads, and parents, looking to start their next chapter with a little adventure.

Gift your grad even more new adventures! [ [link removed] ]


Footer graphic with four icons, a tent in the woods, a compass, pines and binoculars.

Icon representing past times. [ [link removed] ]

Find past issues [ [link removed] ] of our newsletter

 





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