Even though we are now headed into the month of August, there are still plenty of vacation opportunities and, although the days will still be warm, the nights should start cooling off, which will be a welcome break.
Heading to Northern Minnesota for a week or even a few days can be a rewarding experience, but you don’t always need to venture that far to experience some of our state’s natural wonders. The following news release by the DNR tells of one of those experiences.
Mystery Cave offers cool escape from summer heat
Visitors can once again experience natural wonders above and below ground at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park located in Southeastern Minnesota. Cave tours are now being given following the state shutdown.
Discovered in 1937, Mystery Cave is the longest cave in Minnesota, spanning more than 13 miles underground. It is a network of passages that was created when rock was dissolved by moving water. Park naturalists guide tours through various portions of the cave and explain its history, its features and how it was formed. One-hour cave tours are designed to be fun and informative for all ages. They are ADA accessible.
Another perk to cave tours during this hot Minnesota summer is the temperature. The cave stays at a constant 48 degrees year-round.
One-hour cave tours are offered every day through Labor Day between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Two-hour and wild caving tours are offered on weekends. Details can be found on the park Web site at www.mndnr.gov or by calling 507-937-3251.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park has also opened its main campground, horse campground and trails. Historic Forestville, a restored 1800s village operated by the Minnesota Historical Society, reopened July 23.
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is located between Spring Valley and Preston, six miles off of State Highway 16. Signs will direct visitors to the park or cave.
Another nice thing about this park is that it is not a great distance from home and can offer something a little different for the vacationer.
Over the years, I’ve known many folks who enjoy camping and fishing at Forestville and a lot of them bring their horses. It’s a great place to trail ride and just plain have some old-fashioned fun.
Forestville State Park has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. Not only does it offer access to Mystery Cave and all its wonders, there are hiking trails, trout fishing, campsites and horse trails. Fall is also a great time to visit Forestville and enjoy the autumn colors.
Overnight camping is available seasonally.
Horse Riding
The Minnesota Horse Pass is required for equestrians at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. These may be purchased from any ELS license agent prior to your visit.
The horse trails and horse camp will close for the season on November 1, 2011. Trails are surfaced with crushed rock. Shod horses are strongly recommended.
Best time to contact the park:
Summer: Sunday - Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Thursday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Winter: Generally, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Hours limited due to staffing.
Office hours may vary. Please call ahead or leave a message.
Contact: 21071 County 118, Preston, MN 55965. Telephone main park: 507-352-5111; Mystery Cave 507-937-3251; Fax: 507-352-5113; E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Deer Hunting licenses are now available
I know that it may be a little early for some of you, but the Minnesota DNR made its 2011 deer hunting licenses available on August 1st.
This year’s archery season opens Saturday, Sept. 17. The general firearms season opens Saturday, Nov. 5. The deadline for lottery permit applications is Sept. 8.
“We’re looking forward to another good season,” said Lou Cornicelli, big game program coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “Deer populations are at or near goals throughout much of the state.”
Cornicelli said hunters will discover several new regulations for the upcoming deer season.
Until next time do a little fishing, take a little time to relax and get out and explore our great Minnesota outdoors.
Please remember to keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers during the coming year.