Adventures after dark
Minnesota State Parks and Trails are beautiful at all times of day and night. Nighttime events are a great way to see your favorite parks in a whole new light. Get out and experience the allure of outdoor activities after sunset.
- Lots of parks schedule special events after dusk, such as nighttime hikes, moonlit paddles, or programs about nocturnal critters, or storytelling programs. See the events calendar below for more information!
- Make a vacation of it! Reserve a campsite or camper cabin and enjoy the full overnight experience.
- Get to know the night skies with one of the free 90-minute programs presented by the University of Minnesota Astronomy Department. All you have to bring is your cosmic curiosity - telescopes are provided.
- Seasonal winter candlelight events are a great way to keep your whole family active during the winter. Learn more!
Purchase a vehicle permit today and get a year of unlimited visits to all of Minnesota's state parks and recreation areas.
Events calendar
Scroll table right to see more »| 07/20/24 | Universe in the Park | Nerstrand Big Woods State Park | |
| 07/27/24 | Universe in the Park | Afton State Park | |
| 08/02/24 | Universe in the Park | Gooseberry Falls State Park | |
| 08/03/24 | Solar Powered | Sibley State Park | |
| 08/04/24 | Sun Station | Wild River State Park | |
| 08/09/24 | Astronomy and Stargazing | Glacial Lakes State Park | |
| 08/23/24 | Universe in the Park | Afton State Park | |
| 08/23/24 | Mike Lynch Stargazing - Make the Stars Your Old Friends | Lake Shetek State Park | |
| 08/24/24 | Universe in the Park | Wild River State Park | |
| 08/30/24 | Universe in the Park | Wild River State Park | |
| 08/31/24 | Public Sky Observation | Frontenac State Park | |
| 09/13/24 | Astronomy and Stargazing | Glacial Lakes State Park | |
| 09/21/24 | Equinox at Dusk: A Celebration of Nature's Transition | Lake Bemidji State Park | |
| 10/11/24 | Astronomy and Stargazing | Glacial Lakes State Park |