ST PAUL, Minn. — Looking for a post-Thanksgiving tradition? The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has you covered.
All Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas will be free on Friday, Nov. 27 as part of the department's free entrance day.
"The goal is to encourage families and friends to spend time together in nature," the DNR posted on its website. "Research shows many health and wellness benefits to spending time in nature."
The Minnesota DNR has four free days a year — one in each season — to allow people the opportunity to get outdoors and explore one of Minnesota's many state parks. According to the DNR, most Minnesotans live within 30 miles of a state park. For a complete list of state parks, click here.
"Getting outdoors makes exercise more fun and can boost mood and immunity," the DNR's site reads. "The American Psychological Association shares that exposure to nature is linked to benefits including improved attention, lower stress, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even increases in empathy and cooperation."
For those looking ahead to 2025, the Minnesota DNR has already announced entrance fees will be waived on Monday, Jan. 20; Saturday, April 26; Saturday, Jun 14; and Friday, Nov. 28. For more information, click here.