Explore Minnesota State Parks for Free with Your Library Card

Central Minnesota libraries are doing more than connecting people to books—they’re opening the door to the great outdoors, too. Through the Minnesota State Parks Library Program, many public libraries now offer free seven-day state park passes that cardholders can check out just like a book.

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To see this program in action, we talked with Laura Steabner, Director of Teaching and Learning at Monticello Public Schools, who has already used the pass three times.

“I actually read an article in my local newspaper that highlighted the program… I thought it was a really cool perk of the library.”

Laura has used her library pass to visit Lake Maria State Park twice and Itasca State Park once—both for quick local getaways and a longer weekend trip.

“The park pass program just seemed like a good reason to take advantage of a beautiful park so close to home… I actually think that having the park pass program has made me think about visiting state parks more than I have in the past.”

While she says the parks were always technically accessible to her, the pass made them top of mind.

“I can say for certain that this program has increased my visits to state parks and I would absolutely recommend it to the community.”

About the Minnesota State Parks Library Program

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is partnering with public libraries across the state to offer free seven-day state park passes for checkout. The goal is to reduce financial barriers so more Minnesotans—especially those in low-income communities—can enjoy our state parks.

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As of July 1, 2025, the program has expanded to more than 200 participating libraries in all 87 Minnesota counties. Many Central Minnesota libraries are part of this network, giving local residents an easy, no-cost way to explore trails, lakes, and forests.

How It Works

While each library system may handle checkout a bit differently, the basics are the same:

• Passes are valid for seven days and cover the vehicle entrance fee to Minnesota state parks.
  
  
• Display the pass on your dashboard so park staff can see the validity and expiration date.
  
  
• Passes do not need to be returned—just recycle them when you’re done. Any additional items (like books or equipment) should be returned on time.
  
  
• Passes are limited, so it’s a good idea to call your library ahead of time to see if one is available.
  
  
• Proof of income is not required, and neither library nor DNR staff will ask about it.
  
  
• Planning to camp? The pass covers only the vehicle entrance fee—you’ll still need to make and pay for camping reservations separately.

Find a Participating Library

Curious if your library offers state park passes?
Use the Minnesota DNR’s directory of participating libraries to find a location near you and start planning your next outdoor adventure:

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Minnesota State Parks Library Program – Participating Libraries >>

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This is just one example of how libraries in Central Minnesota are expanding access—connecting community members not only to information, but to experiences, nature, and lifelong memories.