Twin Cities Business Listing

Itasca State Park in Park Rapids, Minnesota offers opportunities for families to camp, fish, hike and cross-country ski.

Related Articles:

• Minnesota State Park Campgrounds: A Family Camping Guide
• Fishing the Twin Cities: 10 Best Fishing Holes in the Twin Cities

8 Ideas for Family Fun at Itasca State Park

1. Rent a campsite or camping cabin for a fun, family overnight adventure.
2. Go Fishing. Minnesota residents do not need a license to fish in Minnesota State Parks and the park office has free loaner equipment visitors can borrow. Sometimes park rangers will stop by to give anglers some pointers.
3. Stop by the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center. It is open year round and gives an overview of the flora and fauna found in the park, with several taxidermy animals on view, interactive kids area, and historical exhibits.
4. Go birdwatching. Birding Checklist: What to Pack for Birdwatching with list of Minnesota bird species.
5. Plan your visit around a naturalist program. Scroll to the bottom for a link to the park’s event calendar.
6. Hike or Snowshoe the park trails.
7. Visit the Fire Tower. And maybe bring along Headstrong Hallie! : The Story of Hallie Morse Daggett, the First Female “Fire Guard,”  by Local Author, Aimée Bissonette to read in the car during travel time.
8. Cross the rock bridge at the headwaters of the Mississippi River.

Useful Links:

• Fish for free in Minnesota State Parks
• Find upcoming naturalist programs and other events on the Events Calendar.