5/29/2007

Enjoy Free Family Activities at South Dakota State Parks

PIERRE, S.D. – Visitors to four South Dakota state parks will have the chance to take part in special family activities the second week of June. These free activities are a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

Make plans to attend the following events:

·        “Coffee Club Heart Walk” Walk in the Park, Saturday, June 9, 8:30 a.m. at Oahe Downstream Recreation Area near Fort Pierre. This two-mile walk is a great opportunity to get some fresh air, socialize and take part in some heart-healthy exercise. Coffee will be available following the walk courtesy of the Oahe Downstream Marina and Resort. Participants should meet at the marina parking lot. Info: (605) 223-7722.

·        Kids’ Fishing Derby, Saturday, June 9, 10 a.m. at Lake Thompson Recreation Area near Lake Preston. Young anglers ages 4 to 15 are invited to try their luck on Lake Thompson. Several prizes will be awarded, including biggest fish, most fish, smallest fish and more. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment, though bait and a limited number of fishing poles will be available for use. Info: (605) 847-4893

·        Luce Pioneer Days, Friday, June 8 through Sunday, June 10 at Lake Herman State Park near Madison. Celebrate the pioneer spirit with a day of demonstrations, living history, music and crafts. This event features Dutch oven cooking, rope making, weaving, spinning, gold panning, butter churning, making pioneer toys and much, much more. Food, vendor booths and musical entertainment will also be available. Info: (605) 256-5003.

·        Trolley on the Trail, Tuesday, June 12, 1 p.m. (MDT) Mickelson Trail Deadwood Trailhead. The Trolley on the Trail program allows those with physical limitations to experience the northern portion of the trail. Pre-registration required. Info: (605) 578-1401. 

There is no cost to participate in any of these programs. A park entrance license is required for all events except the Trolley on the Trail. These programs are held in addition to regular programming hosted by individual parks on summer weekends.

The Walk in the Park program is part of a series of educational, guided hikes held throughout the year in South Dakota state parks, recreation areas and nature preserves. Parks staff and volunteers lead the programs, which are co-sponsored by the S.D. Department of Health. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and to dress for the weather.

For more information on S.D. state parks and a calendar of upcoming events, visit www.SDparks.info or call (605) 773-3391.

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