Past Events

Creepy, crawlies everywhere! Head on out to Turtle River State Park to learn more about the creeping and crawling critters around us!

There is no better way to celebrate and appreciate the hard work put into North Dakota’s trail systems than on National Trails Day, June 5. This event is a nationwide effort that encourages everyone to explore and advocate for trails. Take the opportunity to participate in a volunteer trail project, collect litter, or join in a guided hike or trail activity all while finding physical, mental, and emotional restoration.

Turtle River State Park hosts Camping Hacks Weekend May 28-29, with amphitheater programming about campfire cooking and camping hacks, in addition to a Dakota Explorers Camping Games activity.

Join us for our annual fishing derby! Learn to tie knots, cast and even try your hand at fishing. We will be giving away door prizes and a first fish award so be sure to stick around as you must be present to win. Not into fishing? No problem as we will have an activity table and a scavenger hunt.

Join us for our annual Cache In Trash Out Park Clean-up Day and celebrate Earth Day too! We will be meeting at 10 am at the Chalet and dividing out the different areas of the park. Trash bags and disposable gloves will be provided. Bring your own water and stay for a picnic!

The next time frame to complete a qualifying hike opens this Sunday, March 14 and remains open until March 28. A number of the North Dakota state parks are hosting St. Patrick's Day-themed events in the coming weeks, so come wearing your green and get another hike closer to completing the 12 Months-12 Hikes Challenge!

Warm yourself by the fire and hit the luminary lit trails with us! This event is at the Woodland Lodge from 7-9 pm. Hike the trail at your own pace. Refreshments will be available at the Woodland Lodge. It is a free event, however, vehicle passes are still required.

Join us for a weekend of family-friendly fun. Bring your costumes and decorations for Halloween in July.

Join the park staff for multiple different National Trail Day festivities. On Friday, May 31, go on a modern-day treasure hunt and find your own geocache! This activity starts at 8 p.m. by the amphitheater. On Saturday, June 1, hit the trails on a demo bike. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. try out some different models of bikes and see what your favorite is, meet by the CCC Memorial Shelter. There will also be yard games and we encourage you to bring a lunch as well. The final event will be on Saturday, June 1, at 8 p.m. starting at the amphitheater. This hike will be exploring the different methods of finding your way in the wilderness.

Come on out to Turtle River State Park and test your fishing skills at this fishing derby on the Turtle River. Learn to tie knots, bait your hook, and cast.