Your Ticket to Tranquility: Enjoy Minnesota State Parks for FREE!

Minnesota was recently recognized as the top spot in the country for summer road trips. While places like Valleyfair and the Mall of America are fun destinations, many of us enjoy getting out into nature.

If you're looking to get outside and enjoy the rest of summer, you're in luck! Minnesota has 64 incredible state parks, including Tettegouche State Park, which is considered among the best in the entire country by Thrillist.

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ALSO READ: Urgent Warning For Minnesota Hikers

Normally, it is $7 for a day pass or $35 for a year to enter a state park. But there's a neat trick to get in for free.

Free Minnesota State Park Passes Available at Your Local Library

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has teamed up with public libraries across Minnesota to offer free seven-day state park passes that you can check out, just like a book!

The goal is to allow everyone the opportunity to experience our beautiful state parks without worrying about the entrance fee.

How It Works

While each library might have slightly different checkout rules, all the state park passes function the same way once you're at the park:

• Seven-day use: Each pass is good for seven days and then it expires.
• Make sure to put the pass on your vehicle's dashboard so park staff can easily see it and check its validity.
• You don't have to return the pass; just recycle it when you're done. If your library includes other items with the pass (like books), remember to return those on time!

210 public libraries are participating in this program.

Important Note on Camping

Library passes only cover the vehicle entrance fee. If you plan to camp, you'll still need to make and pay for your camping reservations separately, either online or by calling 866-857-2757.