Winter permeates programs at regional parks, wildlife refuge

William O'Brien State Park

9-10:30 a.m. Friday

Join Kyle TePoel, a naturalist who has worked with the National Audubon Society and the National Park Service. He has been doing guided bird hikes since 2008. Bring a pair of binoculars, or borrow a pair. The program is for any level of birder. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Gather on the slopes to explore what the birds are signaling about our surroundings. The program splits between the classroom and outdoors. Bring a notebook and something to sit on. To register, visit mntracking.org.

Winter camping

10-11:30 a.m. Saturday

Bear Paulsen, general manager of Northstar Canoes, will teach the basics of winter camping. He'll cover clothing, safety and how to sleep comfortably through a long winter night. He will also discuss how to choose a campsite, shelter options and winter travel from backpacking to pulling a sled through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. (651-433-0500, mndnr.gov)

Fort Snelling State Park

1-2 p.m. Saturday

To wildlife, winter is already here. Find out what they have to do to prepare for the season ahead. (612-725-2724, mndnr.gov)

1-2 p.m. Sunday

Join the naturalist to learn about the animals that live at the park. We'll look for clues in the dirt or snow to see which animals are still active. Dress for the weather and meet at the visitor center. Call 612-725-2724 to register.

3-4 p.m. Sunday

Richardson Nature Center

Explore through hands-on activities. Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. (763-694-7676, threeriversparks.org)

6:30 p.m. Sunday

Dress for the weather and hit a trail. There is a walk on an uneven trail. Cost is $5. (763-694-7640, threeriversparks.org)

Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington

8-10:30 a.m. Sunday

Join a naturalist on a bird walk starting at the Bass Ponds Trailhead. (952-854-5900, bit.ly/mnfwr)

1-3 p.m. Sunday