Washington County Parks Quarterly Update

Adventure out into the bold north and enjoy the crisp, cool air at Washington County Parks! There are a plethora of activities and programs coming up for you to enjoy. Hit the ski trails, try out our new program on forest bathing, or bring the kids for a Snowshoe Story Stroll. There's something for everyone!

What's New?

Camping/Pavilion Reservations Open January 3 Online

Create your Parks account now in preparation for the opening of camping/pavilion reservations and save time later! Use your account to make a reservation, make changes and to sign up for events and programs.

Online reservations will begin on Tuesday, January 3 at 9 a.m. and in person/by phone on Tuesday, January 17.

To create your account or make camping reservations online, visit our website.

Photo of a camper with text that says "Online Campground Reservations Open January 3".

Various board games on display in front of a fireplace at Ravine Landing.

Board Games Available at Ravine Landing

Did you know there are various board games available at Ravine Landing? Some games include: chess/checkers/backgammon, cribbage, Uno, Jenga, playing cards, Bananagrams, Timeline, Spot It, Kites, Rhino Hero, For the Queen, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza, Ubongo 3D, Ren Faire, Epic, and Marvel Remix.
Warm up from the cold by our fireplace while playing some games with friends!

Parks Vehicle Permit Photo Contest

The 2024 Parks Vehicle Permit will feature Big Marine Park Reserve and is now open! Winter photos are highly encouraged, so start snapping some pictures of the snowy winter scenes around Big Marine. More information on the photo contest is available on our website.

Nordic Center entryway with sign that says “Welcome to the Nordic Center”.

Reminders

Warm Up from the Cold

The Nordic Center at Lake Elmo Park Reserve (open 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.) and Ravine Landing at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park (open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) are both open for warming up from the cold. There are clean restrooms and cozy fireplace seating available for everyone!

Washington County Parks Ski Pass

Remember to purchase your Washington County Parks Ski Pass! Washington County grooms ski trails when conditions allow at Big Marine Park Reserve, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Pine Point Regional Park, and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Skiers must purchase a Washington County ski pass online, at a pay station, or at a park office.

Nordic Rocks Ski rentals are also available at Lake Elmo Park Reserve and Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. These introductory level cross country skis come in youth and adult size and are worn over a traditional winter boot. As part of the rental package, adjustable poles are included.

Snowshoe Rentals

Snowshoe rentals are first come, first serve and are now available at the following Park Offices: Lake Elmo Park Reserve, St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, and Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. $10 for adults and $5 for youth for 3-hours.

No Snowmobile Parking

Snowmobile parking is not allowed inside of any Washington County Park. Please refer to the Star Trail map for parking suggestions available on their website.

Upcoming Programming & Events

For more information or to view the full calendar of Parks events, please click here.

January 14 - Bird Hike
Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Nordic Center, 9 - 10:30 a.m., recurring program, check website for details

January 21 - Winter Market in the Ravine
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

January 27 - Winter Constellations with WCCO's Mike Lynch
Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Nordic Center, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., $5 per person, registration required

February 4 - Snowshoe Story Stroll
Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Eagle Point Trailhead, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., limited snowshoes provided

February 4 - Full Moon Hike or Snowshoe
Pine Point Regional Park, 6 p.m.

February 11 - Forest Bathing
Pine Point Regional Park, 9 - 11 a.m., $40 per person, registration required

February 18 - Blizzard Bash
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.,

Now Hiring

Washington County Parks is hiring for seasonal positions, including: Guest Services Attendants, Outdoor Recreation Instructors, and Maintenance Workers. Visit our website to apply.

Graphic with woman wearing a Washington County Parks best along with text that says “We’re hiring seasonal and full-time. A great place to work. See job opportunities.”.

Support Our Parks

Your generosity helps us enhance natural areas, improve trails and amenities, provide valuable education to youth, and preserve our county's history at the Washington County Historic Courthouse.

Complete a tax-deductible donation form or call 651-430-8370. For more information, please visit the website.

Snow covered red barn in Lake Elmo Park Reserve.

Little girl cross country skiing on a winter trail in Pine Point Regional Park courtesy of Greg Seitz.