Here are the Itasca State Park Nature Program events listed for July 27 to July 30.
Historic Buildings Walking Tour
Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Meet outside of Forest Inn (Across from Douglas Lodge)
The historic buildings of Itasca tell stories of the people who had enjoyed the park before us and contributed to how we currently experience it. Explore the history of Itasca’s oldest buildings, the people who constructed them, and how they have changed.
Outdoor Kids, Bird Beaks
Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 2-3:30 p.m. (come and go at your leisure)
Meet by the Swim Beach/ Playground (at the south end of the picnic grounds on Lake Itasca)
Kids of all ages come out and explore nature at their leisure. This program series allows kids to connect with nature through hands-on activities that focus on life around the lake. Have fun discovering Itasca while hanging out at the swimming beach or playground.
Archery in the Park
Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 6-7:30 p.m.
Meet in the back lot of the Indian Mounds/North Picnic Grounds Parking Area.
Archery in the Parks is hands-on instruction on shooting a bow and arrow from certified instructors in a safe and supportive environment. Aim for a family adventure with kid-friendly equipment for eight and older beginners. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. All equipment is provided. Personal archery equipment is not allowed.
Participants will be outside for the program. Be prepared for standing in the sun. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellant, and water. The program is canceled if raining.
Family Fishing Fun
Friday, July 28, 2023, from 9:30-11 a.m.
Meet at the Lake Itasca Fishing Pier below Douglas Lodge
Kids and adults, are you a ‘first-time’ fisher person wanting to try a new fishing skill? Learn to identify the common fish species, how to tie a knot, bait your hook, and cast for fish. Suitable for ages 6-12. NOTES: An adult must accompany children. Bring your fishing pole or use one provided (limited number). Bars are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bait provided. Non-Minnesota residents will need a fishing license (within the park, purchased at Itasca Sports Rental).
Five Facts in Five Minutes: Dragonflies
Friday, July 28, 2023, from 10:30-Noon
Near the Mississippi Headwaters (under the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center porch if it rains.)
Only have a minute to learn about Itasca State Park? As you visit the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, stop by the nature cart and learn about Dragonflies.
Tree ID Walk
Friday, July 28, 2023, from 1:30-2:15 p.m.
Meet under the porch at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center
Interested in learning about the trees of Itasca State Park? Join us for a walk as we discover the different kinds of trees and how to identify them.
Jr. Nat. Extraordinary Owls
Friday, July 28, 2023, from 2-2:45 p.m.
Meet at the council ring outside the Lakeside Museum on the picnic grounds (near the picnic shelter)
Young naturalists, join us as we learn about Minnesota’s owls and the traits that make them so well adapted for life at night! After the interpretive talk, complete an owl craft to take home with you.
Five Facts in Five Minutes: Poison Ivy
Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 10:30-Noon
Near the Mississippi Headwaters (under the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center porch if it rains.)
Only have a minute to learn about Itasca State Park? As you visit the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, stop by the nature cart and learn about poison ivy.
Old Timer’s Cabin and the Civilian Conservation Corps
Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 12:30-2 p.m. (come and go at your leisure)
Held at the Old Timer’s Cabin, located along the boardwalk of Dr. Roberts Trail below Douglas Lodge
Only 4 (massive) logs tall, learn more about this Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed building and what life was like in the CCC. Feel free to stop by at your leisure.
Jr. Naturalist: Fabulous Frogs
Friday, July 29, 2023, from 2-2:30 p.m
Meet outside the Lakeside Museum on the picnic grounds (near the picnic shelter)
Green spots, brown stripes, a black X, and a dark mask…learn about the different frogs that make Itasca’s ponds and wetlands their home.
Minnesota’s Beloved Bats- Evening Talk
Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 7-7:30 p.m.
Meet at the Lake Itasca Amphitheater on the picnic grounds (in between the swimming beach and the picnic shelter)
Did you know that almost one-fifth of all mammals on Earth are bats? Join us as we learn about the bat species found in Minnesota and the amazing adaptations that make them unique among mammals.
Five Facts in Five Minutes: Black Bears
Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 10:30-Noon
Near the Mississippi Headwaters (under the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center porch if it rains.)
Only have a minute to learn about Itasca State Park? As you visit the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, stop by the nature cart and learn all about the bear in Minnesota.
Tree ID Walk
Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 2-2:45 p.m.
Meet under the porch at the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center
Interested in learning about the trees of Itasca State Park? Join us for a walk as we discover the different kinds of trees and how to identify them.
Outdoor Kids, Animal Tracks
Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 2-3:30 p.m. (come and go at your leisure)
Meet by the Swim Beach/ Playground (at the south end of the picnic grounds on Lake Itasca)
Kids of all ages come out and explore nature at their leisure. This program series allows kids to connect with nature through hands-on activities that focus on life around the lake. Have fun discovering Itasca while hanging out at the swimming beach or playground.
Itasca’s Evening Under the Pines: Caleigh
Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 7-8:30 p.m.
Meet at the Lake Itasca Amphitheater on the picnic grounds (in between the swimming beach and the picnic shelter). If raining, meet at Forest Inn.
Caleigh is a Minnesota band whose sound is earthy and eclectic. The three female musicians present a fusion of world folk, Celtic, bluegrass, American Old Time, and original compositions. Caleigh has shared their 20-year musical journey with audiences throughout Minnesota and fans worldwide via the Internet.
