Lake Bemidji State Park Hosts Family-Friendly Events Throughout February

Lake Bemidji State Park will offer a slate of family-oriented winter programs throughout February designed to draw residents outdoors and into the Visitor Center at 3401 State Park Road NE, Bemidji. The calendar includes preschool Story Tree sessions, a beginner snowshoeing class and an evening candlelight ski, along with additional DNR-listed programs later in the month.

Story Tree preschool programs run 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7 and Saturday, Feb. 28. The DNR schedule lists the Feb. 7 session as The Story Tree: The Winter Bird and the Feb. 28 session as The Story Tree: A Loud Winter's Nap. A release described the program this way: "Welcome to our enchanting nature story time, a magical experience specially crafted for curious minds ages 3 to 5, though all ages are welcome," a release said. "Come sing a song, learn about the weather, guess what is in the magic basket, listen to a story, learn Ojibwe and do a fun craft." Adults must accompany children, and after programs families can explore the playground, nature play area and exhibits in the Visitor Center.

A beginner-friendly snowshoeing lesson is scheduled 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. The session will cover snowshoe basics, walking techniques for different terrain and a guided walk along the Bass Creek Trail. Snowshoeing requires dressing in layers and wearing snow boots; snowshoes are available to rent free at the park office for the program, but participants should call the park to confirm rental availability. The snowshoe program will be canceled if there is less than six inches (6") of snow or if the temperature is below zero (0°F).

The park will stage its Twilight Trails Candlelight Ski from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14. "Come on out to Lake Bemidji State Park for our annual candlelight ski," the release said. "Glide through the winter woods lit by the soft glow of candles and enjoy a peaceful evening on groomed ski trails." After the ski, attendees can warm up by a bonfire, roast marshmallows at the Dining Hall and enjoy live music and refreshments at the Visitor Center provided by the Bemidji Bogtrotters. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources noted that candlelight events are a popular way to celebrate winter; "Candlelight events are visitor favorites every year and celebrate the beauty of Minnesota in winter," said Ann Pierce, Parks and Trails Division director with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The DNR schedule also lists Snow-Tastic Science on Feb. 28 and earlier and spring events into March, including a Fat Bike Rally on March 7. All vehicles entering the park need a valid Minnesota State Park permit: $7 per day or $35 per year. To request accommodations, email christa.drake@state.mn.us or call (218) 308-2328 at least two weeks before an event. Call the park in advance to confirm equipment rentals, event status and any fee or registration requirements, since some programs depend on snow cover and weather.

For Beltrami County residents, the programming provides low-cost opportunities for family recreation, cultural connection through Ojibwe language elements and a point of civic access to state-managed outdoor assets. Expect community turnout for evening and family events, and check with park staff for the latest conditions and capacity details before attending.