Gov. Tim Walz is proclaiming June 2024 as Great Outdoors Month to encourage Minnesotans to get out in nature and enjoy the state’s outstanding outdoor opportunities.
The proclamation points to investments in the state’s outdoor recreation system through the Get Out MORE (Modernize Outdoor Recreation Experiences) initiative as an example of the critical importance of
outdoor recreation to Minnesotans.
“Minnesotans place a high value on outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Sarah Strommen, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources commissioner.
Thanks to the Get Out MORE initiative, she said the state will soon update and upgrade opportunities that improve experiences for visitors, no matter what type of outdoor experience they choose.
“Great Outdoors Month allows us to celebrate the important work happening across state lands to modernize and bring additional accessibility to outdoor recreation
opportunities," Strommen said.
The Get Out MORE appropriation was passed by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Walz in 2023.
It provides funding for a variety of upgrades and enhancements to outdoor recreation in Minnesota,
including modernizing boating access and camping infrastructure, enhancing fisheries and fishing infrastructure, and improving access and accessibility of outdoor recreation.
There will be improved shore fishing opportunities, repaired roads, new signage and maps, improved
trails and more adaptive equipment for visitors.
During Great Outdoors Month, the DNR is offering special programs and
incentives to encourage Minnesotans to get outdoors.
Free Park Day on Saturday, June 8, allows free entrance to all state parks and recreation areas in Minnesota. There’s a state park or recreation area within 30 miles of most Minnesotans.
In addition to offering popular activities such as hiking, biking, camping, swimming, paddling and birding, a variety of state park interpretive programs are open to all visitors. Find state park programs online at the state parks and trails events calendar
(mndnr.gov/ptcalendar).
The annual Take a Kid Fishing weekend will be June 7-9. Minnesotans 16 or older who take a child 15 or younger fishing don’t need a fishing license, making this another great way to spend time outside during Great Outdoors Month.
Celebrated in Minnesota since 2008, Great Outdoors Month highlights the diversity of public lands throughout the state and the benefits they provide.
More information about MORE investments is available on the DNR's Get Out MORE webpage
mndnr.gov/aboutdnr/get-out-more.