Public invited to become a friend of Camden State Park (2006-06-15)

Those who have good friends know how important it is to have someone they can count on for support. It's no different for state parks.

Many of Minnesota's state parks are fortunate to have support groups made up of concerned citizens who are willing to advise and assist the park when needed. The Friends of Camden State Park have been doing just that for the past six years. They invite more volunteers to join them in working to protect and improve the park, which is located near Marshall in southwestern Minnesota.

The public is invited to hear more about becoming a friend of the park at a "Campfire" at 7:30 p.m. on June 29. The meeting will be in the parks' north picnic shelter. Refreshments will be available. A night hike will follow.

The Friends of Camden State Park meet quarterly and have played an important role in supporting and protecting the natural, historical and cultural resources of the park, assisted with visitor information programs and the development of park facilities. Camden Friends have raised funds for and installed playground equipment, funded the addition of five electrical sites in the campground and are working on plans to improve the park's swimming area and trails.

People who cannot make the meeting but are interested in becoming a friend, should contact Lou Wischer, 303 Donita Ave, Marshall, MN 56258 or wischer@iw.net.

The annual membership fee is $15.

New members in June are eligible for door prizes donated by Schwan's Food Company. Prizes include a two-person raft, blow-up chair, Incredible Hulk walkie-talkies, basketball and football set and a backpack.

For more information, contact the park at (507) 865-4530 or visit the park's Web site at www.mnstateparks.info.