Winter camping
Tettegouche State Park, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday
Join the naturalist and other staff for the basics. In addition to covering topics such as cooking outdoors, staying dry and warm, and transporting gear, we will build a traditional quinzhee, an insulated snowcave, for sleeping. Participants have the option of sleeping overnight in the constructed quinzhees. Registration required. Call 1-218-353-8809, or e-mail kurt.mead@state.mn.us. (mndnr.gov)
Snowshoe Saturday
Whitewater State Park, noon-2 p.m. Saturday
• Explore the park by snowshoe. A naturalist will lead participants to some unique areas of the park. Snowshoes are available. (1-507-312-2308, mndnr.gov)
Wild River State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
• Take a leisurely one-mile walk along the St. Croix River. Snowshoes provided. Space is limited. Call 651-583-2125, ext. 227 to register. (mndnr.gov)
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday
• A how-to-snowshoe lesson will be followed by a half-mile hike. Space is limited. Call 1-320-532-3269 to register. (mndnr.gov)
By candlelight
Gooseberry Falls State Park, 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday
Luminarias will guide visitors on several miles of ski, snowshoe and hiking trails. Follow the luminarias to the Lady Slipper Amphitheater, where you can warm up by the bonfire and roast marshmallows, then return to the visitor center for hot beverages and snacks. (1-218-595-7100, mndnr.gov)
Banding birds
Lowry Nature Center, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday
See wild songbirds up close as they are carefully trapped, studied, banded and released. Drop in anytime. (763-694-7650, threeriversparks.org)
Learn to ice fish
Cedar Lake Farm Regional Park, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday
Head to New Prague and try ice fishing. Learn about equipment and basic ice safety. Cost is $8. Call 763-694-7777 to make a reservation. (threeriversparks.org)
Skiing for all ages
Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Noon-1:30 p.m. Saturday
Get a lesson for adults and children, learning the basics. Cost is $18 for ages 6-11; $30 for ages 12 and older. Ski rental is available. Call 763-559-6700 to make a reservation. (threeriversparks.org)
Maple syrup refresher
Fort Snelling State Park, 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday
With the march toward spring, staff will take to tapping trees, collecting sap, making maple syrup, and teaching people about the process. If you've attended one of our programs and need a refresher, or are interested in volunteering, join a review session before the season starts. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)
