Camping season reopens Memorial Weekend for summer season at Old Mill State Park (2005-05-24)

People can grab a tent and sleeping bag or pack the RV and head for campgrounds at Old Mill State Park, which reopens for business on Friday, May 27.

The trails, campgrounds and facilities, like the swimming pool, are in good shape and ready for park visitors, according to park manager Ryan Sansness.

"Although the park remained open year-round," said Sansness, "some park services were reduced last fall and spring in order to serve the majority of park users who visit the park in the summer season. We are happy to announce the reopening of our campground on Memorial Weekend and look forward to greeting old friends and welcoming new visitors to the park."

The park has 26 campsites, including 10 electric sites. Handicapped accessible facilities include shower and modern restrooms, picnic area and shelter. In addition to a group camp, hiking trails and historic site, one of the most popular features of the park is the swimming pool.

"The availability of our swimming pool is a big draw for the park," said Sansness. "We began filling the pool several weeks ago and treating the water to discourage algae growth. Visitors will notice a decidedly blue color to the water when we first begin the treatment. The color disperses after a day or so until the next time we treat the water, two to three weeks later. On hot summer days, the pool is where most of our visitors head."

THERE ARE A FEW OTHER DATES WORTH NOTING

On Sunday, June 5, Old Mill and most Minnesota state parks are hosting their annual open house when entrance to the park is free; no vehicle permit is required.

On July 31, the park is hosting a Music Festival and Country Jam Session where visitors are invited to enjoy local music and sing-alongs. "Guests can share their musical talent and invite friends or relatives to join in the fun," Sansness said.

On Sunday, Aug. 28, the park will host their annual Grinding Day celebration when Marshall County Historical Society volunteers will fire up the engine to turn the granite millstones of the Old Larson Mill and will demonstrate how wheat is ground into flour.

"Fresh wheat bread and homemade jam will be available thanks to the Marshall County Historical Society," Sansness said.

Society members also will be selling Aunt Cookie's Red Rhubarb Jam and, as always, the fresh ground flour and bran from the mill. Face painting, scavenger hunts and other old fashion games are planned for kids.

The public is welcome to attend all of these events and visit the park. Camping reservations can be made online at www.stayatmnparks.com or by calling 1-866-857-2757.

For information on Old Mill State Park or any of the summer activities, contact the park at (218) 437-8174 or the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 or toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).

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