Minnesota DNR Offering A Free Park Day On Earth Day 2023
Saturday, April 22 is Earth Day and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is providing an added incentive to get outside and enjoy the great Minnesota outdoors.
The DNR has announced that April 22 is also a Free Park Day, one of four days each year when they waive the requirement for a vehicle permit at state parks and recreation areas. This will be the case at all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.
Also, since this Free Park Day also happens to be Earth Day, several state parks are offering Earth Day events, such as the Earth Day celebration at Gooseberry Falls State Park and clean-up events at Frontenac, Lake Bemidji, and Myre-Big Island state parks.
You can get complete details on these events and others online through the state parks event calendar.
“Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are great places to make memories with loved ones,” said Ann Pierce, director of the DNR Parks and Trails Division. “Earth Day is an ideal time to have fun outdoors and enjoy the natural resources of Minnesota. We hope those who visit on Free Park Day will have a positive experience and come back again soon.”
Remember, the Minnesota DNR has a handy ParkFinder tool, which helps anyone looking for certain recreational opportunities or amenities to meet their interests and needs.
The DNR advises visitors to wear clothing appropriate for the weather and bring water and snacks. Spring can bring a variety of weather conditions, and trails can be icy or muddy. Traction devices and/or waterproof footwear just might come in handy.