On the prairie
Wild River State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
Be a part of our Prairie Care program. Join the naturalist to help collect seeds from various native prairie plants. The seeds will be processed and replanted in the park. Meet at the trail center. (651-583-2125 ext. 227, mndnr.gov).
Harvest festival
Itasca State Park, 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday
"Fungus among Us" is this year's theme for a lantern-lit hike. Guides with lanterns will lead a half-mile hike. Registration is required. Children must be accompanied by an adult. (1-218-699-7251, mndnr.gov).
Old-fashioned fun
Minneopa State Park, 5-8 p.m. Saturday
How about a bonfire followed by a hayride through the park? There will be activities for families and treats. Guests are invited to bring food to grill. Also take a short hike down a candlelit trail into the waterfall's gorge. Come for an hour or stay the entire time. (1-507-384-8890, mndnr.gov).
Leaf days
Maplewood State Park, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Celebrate fall colors during this annual celebration, which continues Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. (1-218-863-8383, mndnr.gov)
Hunt for colors
Interstate State Park, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday
Explore the park for signs of fall and discover why leaves change color during an easy scavenger hunt. Stop in at the park visitor center anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to get started. (651-465-5711, mndnr.gov).
Birding hike
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday
Learn about the birds that visit the refuge during the fall migration. A hike begins at the Bass Ponds trailhead. Birders of all skill levels are welcome. The hikes continue into October. (952-854-5900, bit.ly/mnfws)
Fall, by kayak
Cleary Lake Regional Park, 1-4 p.m. Sunday
Enjoy the crisp air while taking in views of wildlife and beautiful fall colors. Previous paddling experience required. Equipment provided. Cost is $40, and reservations required. Call 763-694-7777.
Fire skills
Eastman Nature Center, 1-3 p.m. Sunday
Discover the science behind fire-making and test your new skills. Drop in anytime. (763-694-7700, threeriversparks.org)