Washington County Parks Quarterly UpdateAdventure 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!
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What's New?Camping/Pavilion Reservations Open January 3 OnlineCreate 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.
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Board Games Available at Ravine LandingDid 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!
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Parks Vehicle Permit Photo ContestThe 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.
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RemindersWarm Up from the ColdThe 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 PassRemember 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 RentalsSnowshoe 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 ParkingSnowmobile parking is not allowed inside of any Washington County Park. Please refer to the Star Trail map for parking suggestions available on their website.
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Upcoming Programming & EventsFor 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.,
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Now HiringWashington County Parks is hiring for seasonal positions, including: Guest Services Attendants, Outdoor Recreation Instructors, and Maintenance Workers. Visit our website to apply.
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Support Our ParksYour 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.
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