Fall camping promotion announced for Minnesota state parks

A two-for-one camping promotion in Minnesota state parks begins Sept.15 and runs through Nov. 9, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). During this promotion, customers who camp one night, Sunday through Thursday, at participating state parks will get the next night free.

"The fall color season always brings visitors out to enjoy the scenic beauty of our state parks," said Courtland Nelson, director of the DNR Division of Parks and Recreation. "Fewer bugs and mosquitoes also add to the benefits of fall camping."

Nelson added that if the string of good weather continues, he expects state park campgrounds will continue to see good business this fall.

"Weekends usually are very busy in the fall, but after Labor Day, midweek business slows down," Nelson said. "We would like to encourage more midweek use of our campgrounds and hope visitors will take advantage of the 'two for one' camping this fall."

The promotion offers campers an opportunity to buy one night's camping and get the next night of camping free. The nights must be consecutive, in the same park, and must occur between Sunday and Thursday. The free night applies for a campsite of the same price. Customers who choose to change to a more expensive site the second night must pay the difference in cost.

The promotion does not apply to campsites at Temperance River State Park or to state park camper cabins, group centers, lodging, campsites in state forest campgrounds or at parks where camping is not available after Labor Day. That list includes Carley, Hayes Lake, Kilen Woods, Lake Louise, Monson Lake, Old Mill and Schoolcraft state parks. Camping will not be available at Red River State Recreation Area after Sept. 24 or at Judge Magney State Park in November.

Campgrounds in some state parks that are holding special deer hunts may be temporarily closed for a few days in November. Visitors are asked to call ahead to the park or check the special deer hunt information on the DNR Web site for details and dates.

Customers who already made midweek reservations in October will receive a refund for the second night of camping when they arrive at the park. Camping is first-come, first-served; no reservations are needed or taken for state park camping after Oct. 31.

Some shower and modern restroom facilities close for the season in late September or early October; facilities in other parks remain open until late in October or until a hard or continued frost occurs. Rustic conditions and fees apply when water lines are drained and modern restrooms are closed for the season. All parks, however, have vault toilets available for use year-round.

Visitors who have questions about camping fees, facility availability, fall colors or other seasonal information should check the DNR Web site at www.mnstateparks.info.

Specific information about conditions at all state parks will be listed on each individual state park Web page under "Seasonal Updates."

Questions also can be directed to the DNR Information Center or (651) 296-6157 or toll free at 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).