Minnesotans are encouraged to try some winter outdoor recreation during the first Free Park Day on Monday, January 20th.
DNR Public Relations Supervisor Sara Joy Berhow says it’s a great way for state residents to get acquainted with a state park, and the state parks system…
“We know that our parks are really busy in the summer, but they’re not quite as busy in winter, so we hope that people will go outside and maybe see their favorite park in a new light at a different time of the year with some different perspectives. Or maybe. An opportunity to go try a new park.”
Berhow says state parks are plentiful, and offer a wide variety of activities and things to see…
“These free park days are one of the ways that we’re hoping to expand access to make sure people can get outside and experience all the important health and wellness benefits there are to spending time outside in nature.”
In addition to Monday, January 20th, (Martin Luther King Jr. Day), other Free Park Days this year include Saturday, April 26th, Saturday, June 14th, and Friday, November 28th (the Friday after Thanksgiving).
During Free Park Day, the DNR waives the requirement for a vehicle permit at state parks and rec areas. In Wright County, Lake Maria State Park near Silver Creek, west of Monticello will participate in the DNR’s Free Park Day.
(content: in part, courtesy MNN)
