Branch out into new campgrounds and trails.



Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].

MNDNR logo. [ [link removed] ]




[ [link removed] ]

"August 2025"

A campsite tucked deep in a state forest. [ [link removed] ]

??: Cottonwood Campground in Bowstring State Forest

Discover Minnesota's State Forests

When most people think about getting outdoors in Minnesota, state parks often come to mind—and for good reason. But tucked all across the state are 60 state forests [ [link removed] ] that offer a quieter, wilder, and often more spontaneous way to explore. This month, we're shining a spotlight on these incredible public lands and all they have to offer.

Whether you're pitching a tent at a non-reservable campground, saddling up for a ride on a horse trail, or hitting the beach for the day, there's something in state forests for every kind of adventurer. With over 4 million acres of forested land to roam, it’s time to rediscover the joy of taking the road less traveled.

________________________________________________________________________



Minnesota State Forests ??

"Branch out in Minnesota's 4 million acres of state forest."
A gravel road stretches into a lush forest. [ [link removed] ]

??: White Earth State Forest

Minnesota’s 60 state forests [ [link removed] ] are some of the most versatile public lands in the state, offering far more than just a beautiful backdrop for your next outdoor adventure. These forests provide opportunities for camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, paddling, OHV riding, and winter recreation—all with a little extra elbow room and a quieter, wilder feel than a typical state park.

A rainbow is in the sky above a calm lake surrounded by forest. [ [link removed] ]

Love to go where the day takes you? State forest campsites [ [link removed] ] don’t require reservations, making them ideal for last-minute getaways and spontaneous weekend escapes. 

Beyond recreation, state forests play a critical role in preserving Minnesota’s natural heritage. They provide large stretches of forested habitat where native plants and wildlife thrive, providing migration corridors and shelter for species like black bear, moose, and ruffed grouse. These forests also help protect our lakes and rivers, filtering water, preventing erosion, and supporting healthy watersheds.

State forests are actively managed for sustainability and conservation, balancing recreation, wildlife habitat, and timber production. They also serve as living laboratories, where researchers study forest health, wildlife, and the impacts of climate change to inform future management. This careful stewardship ensures these lands remain healthy and productive for generations to come.

If you love state parks, consider branching out and exploring a state forest. State forest [ [link removed] ] maps are a great guide; many are available as downloadable GeoPDFs. With fewer crowds, more rustic charm, and wide-open space to roam, state forests offer a different kind of outdoor experience.



Learn More [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________


A picnic table and fire ring at a campsite next to a perfectly calm lake. [ [link removed] ]

??: Thistledew Lake Campground in George Washington State Forest

No Reservation — No Problem! ??️

"Spontaneous camping adventures await at state forests. "

State park campgrounds fill up each year during the summer and fall, but state forests offer another camping experience waiting to be explored. State forest campsites are first-come, first-served—no need to worry about reservations. Show up and claim your spot! 

*Campgrounds* [ [link removed] ]

A spigot is open and flowing with a sign that says drinking water. [ [link removed] ]

Minnesota’s 40+ state forest campgrounds [ [link removed] ] offer a more rustic experience than state parks. You won’t find organized nature programs, modern facilities like showers or flush toilets, and only a few campgrounds have hosts. However, most still provide the essentials: a cleared campsite with a fire ring, picnic table, vault toilet, garbage cans, and access to drinking water. Campsite fees [ [link removed] ] are required and help support cleaning, maintenance, and basic services.

In select campgrounds, off-highway vehicles (OHVs) are permitted to ride directly to and from their campsite. For more information on where riding is allowed, visit the OHV access to state forest campgrounds page [ [link removed] ]. Horseback riders can also enjoy the convenience of riding into camp with state forest horse campsites, which provide basic amenities such as picket lines and compost bins for manure. 



*Group Campsites* [ [link removed] ]

Group campsites in state forests come with amenities such as a picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilet. These campsites are designated for larger groups of 12 or more people and can accommodate multiple tents. The sites are popular for family gatherings and scout groups. 

*Dispersed Camping* [ [link removed] ]

If you’re looking for more of a wilderness experience, far from others and with no amenities, dispersed camping [ [link removed] ] is for you. Set up camp at least one mile outside of designated campsites or campgrounds on state forest land. Dispersed campers can camp in any suitable site that already exists or any opening in the woods. This more primitive experience requires extra knowledge and extra responsibilities – are you up for it?

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Hit the Trails ??

"Thousands of miles of trail await in state forests."

Minnesota's state forests are home to some of the best outdoor trails in the state. Miles of trails accommodate every kind of activity from mountain biking to off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails and horseback riding. Find your next rugged path [ [link removed] ], and don't forget to share the trail!

Horseback Riding [ [link removed] ]

State forests provide horse trails with miles of winding paths perfect for horseback riding. These trails are ideal for riders who want to enjoy the outdoors at a more leisurely pace. You can even stay overnight with your horse in a state forest at designated campgrounds! Horse trails are open year-round, but only maintained May 1 to November 1. Don't forget to pack your Horse Pass [ [link removed] ]! A Horse Pass is required on all state horse trails.

A person smiles while riding their horse in a forest. [ [link removed] ]

Mountain Biking [ [link removed] ]

Explore trails that twist and turn through dense woods. Mountain biking [ [link removed] ] is permitted on all state forest roads and trails unless posted closed, with the exception of Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State forest [ [link removed] ], where mountain bikes are permitted only on designated trails. State forest roads can range from asphalt to gravel, maintained to minimal maintenance road surfaces. Some roads and trails may cross wetlands that will limit mountain bike use.  These trails cater to a range of skill levels, from beginners looking for gentle routes to experts seeking a challenge. 

A bike is perched at a campsite in a state forest. [ [link removed] ]

Off-Highway Vehicle Riding [ [link removed] ]

For those looking to take their off-roading skills to the next level, some state forests offer a network of OHV trails. The trails are designed for ATVs, OHMs, and other off-road vehicles, allowing riders to explore the forest's more remote areas. OHVs are also permitted in certain state forest campgrounds. Ride into the wilderness and enjoy an adrenaline-packed experience, complete with mud, hills, and scenic views. An OHV registration or out of state trail pass is required to ride on all OHV trails. Please remember to tread lightly, and stay on the trail!

Two people ride ATVs through a forest on a gravel road. [ [link removed] ]

Snowmobiling [ [link removed] ]

With more than 20,000 miles of groomed trails—many weaving through state forests—you’ll find plenty of room to rev your engine and ride in Minnesota. State forests provide expansive snowmobile trail networks that connect to nearby communities and regional systems. When snow conditions allow, Grant-in-Aid trails open December 1 through March 31 each year. 

A group of snowmobilers ride through a snowy forest. [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________


A person uses a boot brush to wipe of debris from their boot while hiking. [ [link removed] ]
Simple Steps to Stop Invasive Species ??

"Help protect Minnesota's native ecosystems.  "

In Minnesota, we’re lucky to have no shortage of places or ways to explore and play. Part of what makes our landscapes so wonderful is the diverse native species that call them home. You can help protect your favorite places by not spreading invasive plants, which can disrupt native landscapes, impact our ability to enjoy our favorite recreation – and even be harmful to our health.

What is an invasive species? It’s not just a weed. According to Minnesota statute, an invasive species is a nonnative species that 1) causes or may cause harm economically, environmentally or to human health; or 2) threatens or may threaten natural resources or the use of natural resources in the state.

Common invasive plants you might recognize include common buckthorn [ [link removed] ], leafy spurge [ [link removed] ], common tansy [ [link removed] ], garlic mustard [ [link removed] ], and many more [ [link removed] ].

What can you do?

You can help reduce the spread of invasive species in state parks, forests and trails by staying on designated roads and trails. Walking or riding off-trail increases your chances of passing through patches of invasive plants, where seeds or plant fragments can stick to your clothing and gear and be carried to new areas. Staying on trail can limit that risk.

Cleaning gear like boots, tents, and clothing also helps prevent the spread of invasive species. Be sure to clean all equipment thoroughly after use, removing any seeds or plant material. Use boot brush stations at trailheads—or carry a small brush with you—to quickly clear away dirt and debris before you head home.

Explore more ways to prevent the spread of invasive species based on the activities you enjoy on the DNR website [ [link removed] ]. 

Learn More [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Bonfire Bliss, Without the Wildfire Risk

"Practice fire safety while camping."

Thank you for being safe with campfires this summer—your diligence is greatly appreciated! But wildfire season isn't over yet…

Fall is traditionally a dry time of year, which means a second wildfire season [ [link removed] ] in Minnesota. Keep up the effort to be safe with anything that can cause a spark:

A marshmallow roasts over a campfire in a fire ring. [ [link removed] ]

✅ Check fire danger conditions and burning restrictions [ [link removed] ] before lighting a match.

?? Only use established fire rings at campgrounds or picnic areas. When dispersed camping, choose a level area away from vegetation, scoop out a depression in the center of the area, and put a ring of rocks around the fire.

?? Always watch your campfire. Never leave a fire unattended. 

?? Park vehicles – including OHVs – away from grass or vegetation, where hot exhaust systems could spark a wildfire.

?? When you’re done, make sure the fire is out before leaving. Drown-stir-repeat until it is out COLD. If a campfire is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.

?? Remember: only you can prevent wildfires!





State Park Library Pass Locations Double! ??

"Checking out state parks just got easier."

The DNR’s popular state parks library program [ [link removed] ] has expanded, making it easier than ever for Minnesotans to explore the outdoors for free.

Minnesota State Parks Library Program. [ [link removed] ]

As of July 1, more than 200 libraries and bookmobiles across all 87 counties now offer seven-day state park passes for checkout—double the previous number of locations. The number of available passes has also grown from 175 to 450.

Funded by the Parks and Trails Legacy Fund, the program has seen rapid growth since its statewide launch in 2021. Library park passes help remove financial barriers for visitors, with many participants reporting that cost was a factor in visiting state parks.

To check out a pass, contact your local library for availability and checkout policies. Passes cover the vehicle entrance fee for seven days—camping and other reservation fees still apply. Find participating libraries [ [link removed] ] and start planning your next park adventure!





Saddle Up and Ride the Trails! ??

Enjoy miles of scenic horseback riding in Minnesota's state parks and forests with a Minnesota Horse Pass [ [link removed] ]—just $5 for a day or $21 for the year. 

A group of horseback riders walk their horses through a path in a golden prairie. [ [link removed] ]


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

Did you get this email from a friend?

Subscribe [ [link removed] ]

________________________________________________________________________



Icon representing past times. [ [link removed] ]

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





________________________________________________________________________

minnesota department of natural resources [ [link removed] ]

*Minnesota Department of Natural Resources  |  mndnr.gov [ [link removed] ] *

Email us: [email protected]  |  Call 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367

Follow us on Facebook [ [link removed] ]   Follow us on Instagram [ [link removed] ]   Find us on LinkedIn [ [link removed] ]   Follow us on YouTube [ [link removed] ]

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES:

Manage Preferences [ [link removed] ]  |  Help [ [link removed] ]  |  Sign-up for other Minnesota DNR notifications [ [link removed] ]


________________________________________________________________________

This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]
body .abe-column-block { min-height: 5px; } table.gd_combo_table img {margin-left:10px; margin-right:10px;} table.gd_combo_table div.govd_image_display img, table.gd_combo_table td.gd_combo_image_cell img {margin-left:0px; margin-right:0px;}