Geocaching, a high-tech GPS treasure hunt game, is a fast-growing
family activity in Minnesota state parks. This year’s geocaching
challenge is the “Geocaching Wildlife Safari.”
It’s perfect for people who love playing with the latest gadgets and
exploring the great outdoors. Fairgoers can try their hand at using a
GPS receiver to five different locations around DNR Park.
When: 11 a.m., 4 p.m.
Where: South side of DNR Building
STATE PARKS NATURALIST TENT
Visitors may participate in four interactive activities led by
Minnesota State Parks naturalists. “Make Tracks” to the Minnesota
mammals table and make your own tracks to take home. “Snakes Alive”
will get you up close to these gentle Minnesota reptiles. Visitors can
also test their geology skills with “Geology Rocks.” “Name That
Song” will help fairgoers identify bird songs and frog calls. People
who do all four activities will receive a fun, temporary [removable]
tattoo. The Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota will hand out the
Minnesota Trails magazine and show you how this organization protects
the places you love and how you can help.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Near DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage
MINNESOTA STATE PARKS CAMPER CABIN TOURS
Minnesota State Parks and Trails will display an actual camper cabin.
The cabins are built to provide a “camping out” experience, but with
the comfort of four walls, year-round at Minnesota state parks.
Fairgoers will be able to step inside the 24′ by 12′ cabin to check
it out. The cabin has two sets of bunks allowing accessibility for a
wheelchair. A camper cabin is complete with picnic table and a fire ring
with grill.
When: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: West side of DNR Building
ENTERTAINMENT: Hardwoods Home Companion Show
Hardwoods Home Companion, a variety show, will delight viewers through
song and humor while putting the spot light on State Parks and the
natural wonders found there.
When: 5 p.m.
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage
MUSIC: Clearwater
The Twin Cities based trio plays well-known acoustic, folk, and
bluegrass as well as original songs with an environmental theme.
Ideally suited for small to medium sized gatherings, indoors or out.
Clearwater’s song “Shoreline” is featured on the DNR “Restore Your
Shore” interactive CD-ROM.
When: 10 a.m., noon. 2 p.m.
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage
MUSIC: Ecuador Manta
Based out of St. Paul, Ecuador Manta has evolved into a sound best
described as Latin Fusion, World Music. Their songs includes world beats
from The Caribbean, The Middle East, North America and many countries
throughout Latin America. Along with the fusion of many rhythms and
beats, Ecuador Manta preserves the beauty and sound of the South
American panflute, native to its country. The band attracts and excites
all ages and draws in large crowds from many different social and
cultural backgrounds, making the group a big hit at many festivals.
Ecuador Manta can make the most unlikely audience, dance, move and
smile.
When: 6-10:30 p.m.
Where: DNR Volunteer Outdoor Stage
DNR-related State Fair story ideas for Thursday, Aug. 27 Theme: Parks and Trails Day GEOCACHING 101 IN MINNESOTA STATE PARKS
·
