Learn to Camp, Paddle, Rock Climb and Mountain Bike; I Can! Program Begins June 4

Registration is now open for the 2016 I Can! programs

Spend the night in a tent at Interstate State Park for the first time on June 4, paddle the St. Croix River for the first time on June 12, go rock climbing on the North Shore for the first time on June 25, or sign up for one of many other unforgettable first-time experiences offered by Minnesota state parks and trails through its popular I Can! series of outdoor skill-building programs.

Reservations are now being taken for the following beginner-level programs, which start in June and continue through the end of August:

• I Can Camp! – Develop (or brush up on) fire-starting and camp cooking skills, and sleep on air mattresses in tents large enough to accommodate two adults and up to three children ($60 for one-night programs or $85 for two-night programs).
• I Can Paddle! – Get out on the water for a guided canoeing, kayaking or sea kayaking adventure (prices vary).
• I Can Climb! – Experience the thrill of rock climbing with instruction provided by trained professionals from Vertical Endeavors Guided Adventures ($10/child, $20/adult).
• I Can Mountain Bike! – Learn riding techniques and explore mountain bike trails with guides from the Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Club ($15/child, $25/adult).

The Minnesota state parks and trails I Can! series also includes I Can Fish! and Archery in the Parks programs, which are both free and don’t require reservations.

“During 2016, the 125^th anniversary of Minnesota state parks and trails, we are making a special effort to reach out and connect new people to the outdoors,” said Erika Rivers, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division. “The I Can! programs, which provide equipment and instruction for beginners, are a great way to introduce families to camping, fishing and other quintessential Minnesota activities they can enjoy together throughout their lives.”

Registration and more information

No experience is necessary for any of these programs. Instruction and essential equipment will be provided. For more information about any of the programs – including program dates, times, locations, and minimum age requirements – visit www.mndnr.gov/ican or contact the DNR Information Center at [email protected] or 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

To register for I Can Camp!, I Can Paddle!, I Can Climb! and I Can Mountain Bike!, visit www.mndnr.gov/reservations or call 866-857-2757 (8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily, except holidays).