Whitewater POWs
Whitewater State Park, 7-8 p.m. Friday
Whitewater State Park once held German prisoners of war. Local legend has it that many German POWs requested to be placed in Whitewater because of the scenic beauty and the people. Celebrate this Veterans Day by learning more about the prisoners of war and their back story in the region. (1-507-932-3007, ext. 229, mndnr.gov)
Feeding frenzy
Lowry Nature Center, 1-2 p.m. Saturday
Watch salamanders, turtles, frogs and snakes eat. Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. (threeriversparks.org)
Veteran corps
Sibley State Park, 11 a.m.-noon Friday
Veterans of World War I served our country twice. First, by going to war. Second, by building our Minnesota state parks. Take a walk into the past to hear the stories of how these men healed through their work and gain a greater appreciation for the buildings of log and stone that are their legacy. Meet by the water tower in the Lake View campground. (1-507-932-3007, ext.229, mndnr.gov)
Full-moon walk
Cleary Lake Regional Park, 5-6:30 p.m. Saturday
Explore seasonal signs and sounds at night. Cost is $6; reservations are required. Call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #444504-01. This program is for ages 6 and older.
Tundra swan trip
Whitewater State Park, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday
Caravan through the Whitewater Wildlife Management Area to Weaver Bottoms on the Mississippi River to observe tundra swans on their migration to Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the nation and located on the East Coast. Bring your own transportation. (1-507-932-3007, ext. 229)
Skills for women
Afton State Park, 9-11 a.m. Saturday
Which knot is used to put up a tarp and how is it tied? Knowing a few basic knots can make a big difference in situations in the outdoors. Learn to tie some. Participants will bring home a "survival" bracelet. Registration required. Call 651-231-6968. (mndnr.gov)
Walk with a naturalist
Silverwood Park, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Sunday
Watch and listen for seasonal happenings. Binoculars are suggested. Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7707)