Jan. 16, 2025



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*Minnesota DNR News
*




*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
*

Jan. 16, 2025




*For more information:* <[email protected]>

Contact the DNR Information Center
by email  <[email protected]>or call 888-646-6367.





In This Issue

* Minnesota DNR urges snowmobile riders to prioritize safety [ #link_1491411839600 ]
* Minnesota state parks and recreation areas offer winter camping and lodging [ #link_1491411977526 ]
* Prune oaks now to avoid risk of oak wilt infection [ #link_1491412003165 ]
* Minnesota DNR invites public comment to shape offerings at new Keystone Woods Wildlife Management Area [ #link_1491412051810 ]

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Minnesota DNR urges snowmobile riders to prioritize safety

Even small amounts of snow can hide dangers

Snowmobile enthusiasts still await a large, widespread snowfall, but are finding places to ride in some parts of Minnesota. Frozen lakes are seeing plenty of attention, as are road ditches and trails where there’s adequate snow. With a long holiday weekend on tap, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds riders to ensure their desire to get out doesn’t get in the way of making safety their top priority.    

Small amounts of snow can hide dangerous obstructions on both ice and land; and even though temperatures generally have been low, swampy areas might have poor, if any, ice.

“People are understandably excited to get out and enjoy the snow where it’s available,” said Capt. Jon Paurus, DNR Enforcement education program coordinator. “Given it’s been a couple years since we’ve had really good riding opportunities all across Minnesota, we ask everyone to brush up on the basics of snowmobile safety before they start their sleds.”

Paurus offers the following tips to ensure a safe ride:


* *Know where to ride. *Riders who stay on marked trails are less likely to strike an obstacle or trespass onto private property. Riders can check trail conditions [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/snow_depth/index.html) before heading out.
* *Leave the booze at home. *Drinking and riding is one of two main factors in crashes and plays a role in about 60% of those that are fatal.
* *Watch the speed and stay to the right.* Going too fast is the other main factor in crashes. Many serious and fatal crashes occur when a speeding snowmobiler loses control or strikes an object.
* *Be careful on the ice. *Obstacles such as pressure ridges have been common this year. There must be at least 5 to 7 inches of new, clear ice to support the weight of a snowmobile and rider.
* *Take a snowmobile safety course [ [link removed] ]* (mndnr.gov/safety/vehicle/snowmobile). It’s required of anyone born after 1976 and recommended for everyone. People with snowmobile safety certification are less likely to be involved in serious or fatal crashes.

Additional safety tips can be found on the DNR website [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/snowmobiling/safety.html).

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Minnesota state parks and recreation areas offer winter camping and lodging

Camping and lodging are available throughout the state
A camper cabin in the snow

Minnesota state parks and recreation areas have a variety of camping and lodging options for an unforgettable overnight stay this winter. Whether people are looking to ski in and out of a cabin, wake up to frost-covered forests, or simply enjoy the peace of a crackling fire, Minnesota state parks offer the ultimate winter escape. 

*Camper cabins*

When winter sets in, visitors can cozy up in a camper cabin at a Minnesota state park or recreation area. Parks including Jay Cooke, Afton, Lake Bemidji, Whitewater, and Wild River all have winter cabin options making it possible to enjoy the beauty of the season without sacrificing comfort. These heated, rustic retreats offer the perfect balance of comfort and adventure, providing a warm home base for winter explorations or simply unwinding in the beauty of nature.

While not all camper cabins are available year-round, many that are can be found near popular winter trails and scenic overlooks. Guests can step outside the door and easily enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or a winter hike. 

Inside the cabins, visitors will find amenities like bunk beds, tables, and benches. All campers need to bring is bedding, cookware, and a sense of adventure. Most cabins also come with a fire ring and picnic table outside, giving the option to toast marshmallows or gather around a crackling fire under the stars. Find details on the DNR’s camper cabin webpage [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/campercabins).

*Yurts*

Yurts are round, insulated, all-season canvas structures with wood floors, woodstoves and basic furnishings. Firewood is provided in winter months, so yurts are a great way to explore the outdoors all day then spend the night toasty warm. Like camper cabins, yurts offer bunk beds, a table and chairs or benches, plus a fire ring and picnic table outdoors.

Yurts are available year-round at three locations: Afton and Glendalough state parks and Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Find more information on the DNR’s webpage about yurts [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/yurts)

*Winter camping*

Winter camping might sound daunting at first, but for those who embrace the challenge, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience Minnesota’s natural beauty. While winter camping might be more physically demanding than its summer counterpart, it offers a rare sense of peace and accomplishment.

Visitors should be sure to check park-specific details before heading out, as water access, restroom availability, and plowed campsites vary by location. For first timers, it’s always a good idea to call the park to confirm conditions.

*Join the winter camping workshop on Feb. 8*

Since 2015, Tettegouche State Park has hosted a day-long winter camping workshop for beginners. Led by Interpretive Naturalist Kurt Mead, the workshop provides step-by-step guidance on everything from dressing for the weather to building snow shelters like a quinzhee — a kind of snow cave that can stay surprisingly warm inside. It’s also a chance to experiment with different options, such as using a “hot tent” with a small wood stove.

To learn more, visit DNR’s winter camping webpage [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/state_parks/winter_camping.html) to see which parks offer winter camping, or check out the Tettegouche State Park page [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/tettegouche) for details on the workshop scheduled for Feb. 8.

*Itasca State Park has expanded winter lodging in 2025*

Itasca State Park has transformed into a true winter adventure hub, offering expanded overnight options for both seasoned cold-weather enthusiasts and first-time winter travelers.

Stay at Pine Ridge Campground with drive-in electric campsites for easy access to ski and snowmobile trails. Embrace the wild side with remote backcountry campsites accessible by ski or snowshoe.

Several of the Bert’s Cabins are now open year-round. Their location offers direct access to Itasca State Park’s snowmobile trails, and pet-friendly cabins are available. The Headwaters Inn is a lodging option that oozes with historic charm. Book one room or all six; the inn offers the perfect set-up for a group getaway. For ski-in/ski-out convenience, stay at the Four-Season Suites in the historic Douglas Lodge area. All winter lodging at Itasca State Park offers free guest Wi-Fi.

Winters at Itasca State Park feature the Twinkle Light Trail, an illuminated loop trail perfect for a short nighttime adventure under the stars. For longer treks, Itasca offers trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Visitors can stop by the Forest Inn to rent snowshoes or skis from Itasca Sports, warm up by the fire, and connect with the park’s vast winter trail system.

Additional information about camping, lodging and recreational opportunities is on the Itasca State Park page [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/itasca).

*Planning and safety tips*

Being prepared is key to making a winter overnight trip to a state park or recreation area successful and fun.


* Book early: Camper cabins, yurts and lodging suites are very popular even in winter months and often fill quickly for weekend dates. Consider a weekday stay for more availability. Make reservations on the DNR website [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/reservations).
* What's provided: Be aware of what amenities are available. Camper cabins and yurts require visitors to bring their own bedding, but lodging suites do not. Visitors should familiarize themselves with amenities before packing. Visit the park's website or call the ranger station for more information.
* Water access: Check the park website or talk with park staff to confirm where water will be available. Some campground bathrooms and spigots will be shut off for the winter.
* Check weather: Before heading out, check the forecast and pack for the conditions.
* Dress in layers: Choose moisture-wicking materials and bring extras to stay dry and warm.
* Stay active: Cross-country skiing, hiking, or even building a snow shelter will keep one warm and engaged.

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Prune oaks now to avoid risk of oak wilt infection

Winter is the ideal time to prune or remove oaks
DNR forest health specialist August Kramer detects oak wilt in Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area in 2024

"*DNR Forest Health Specialist August Kramer detects oak wilt in Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area in 2024.*"

Now is a great time to prune or cut oaks without the risk of oak wilt infection, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Winter is also the safest time to remove infected oaks.

Oak wilt is an invasive fungal disease spread by sap-feeding beetles that can kill all oak species. The disease is common in east-central and southeast Minnesota and is expanding north and west. In 2024, oak wilt was confirmed for the first time in Carlton and Kandiyohi counties, bringing the number of Minnesota counties with known infections to 33.

Fortunately, the public can help stop its expansion.

“Oak wilt is very expensive to treat, but prevention is often effective and much less costly,” said Brian Schwingle, Forest Health Program coordinator. “One of the best ways to help protect oaks is to do any necessary pruning or cutting in winter when the risk of infection is virtually nonexistent.”

Schwingle said the beetles that carry oak wilt spores become active in warm weather and are attracted to the sap from fresh wounds on trees, such as those made by pruning. It’s important to avoid wounding or pruning oaks April through July, the period with the highest risk of spread.  

On Jan. 22, Schwingle will lead a webinar about how to identify and prevent oak wilt as part of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/discover). Registration is free and the presentations are recorded.

More details about oak wilt, including identification, prevention strategies and how best to deal with infected trees and wood, can be found on the DNR’s oak wilt management webpage [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/oakwilt).

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Minnesota DNR invites public comment to shape offerings at new Keystone Woods Wildlife Management Area

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites people interested in the new Keystone Woods Wildlife Management Area to share their thoughts on what amenities and opportunities they’d like to see at the WMA in the future.

Located in Washington County, Keystone Woods WMA was established in October 2024 and offers 1,820 acres of public land, including woods, wetlands, prairie grasslands and small lakes.

“Because it’s so close to the Twin Cities metro, Keystone Woods has the potential to offer expanded amenities and opportunities that aren’t typically available at our other WMAs,” said Gretchen Miller, Minnesota DNR Central Region wildlife manager. “We’re excited to hear the public’s thoughts and explore what recreation and outreach ideas would work well within our WMA system.”

*Public input opportunities*

The Minnesota DNR will host two public events where staff will give an overview of the Keystone Woods property and its history, discuss potential opportunities on the WMA, and answer questions.

An online meeting will be held Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 6-8 p.m. via WebEx. A link to join the webinar is available on _the Keystone Woods WMA webpage [ [link removed] ]_ (mndnr.gov/wmas/keystone-woods-wma.html).__

An in-person public meeting will be held Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6-8 p.m. at Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N, Hugo.

Comments can also be submitted by:


* Completing an online survey [ [link removed] ] (engage.dnr.state.mn.us/embeds/projects/7944/survey-tools/24496)
* Emailing [email protected]
* Calling Keystone Woods staff at 651-539-3324
* Mailing Keystone Woods WMA public input, 5463-C West Broadway Ave., Forest Lake, MN 55025

The DNR will accept public feedback on Keystone Woods WMA through Sunday, March 2.

*About Keystone Woods WMA*

Established in October 2024, Keystone Woods is a developing 1,820-acre wildlife management area located in Washington County. The WMA offers a variety of landscapes that provide significant wildlife habitat, including forest, woodlands, grasslands, wetlands and small lakes. More information and maps of the area can be found on the Keystone Woods webpage [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/wmas/keystone-woods-wma.html) and WMA Finder [ [link removed] ] (mndnr.gov/wmas).

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minnesota department of natural resources [ [link removed] ]

*Minnesota Department of Natural Resources  |  mndnr.gov [ [link removed] ] *

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