Even though we are now 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 Department of Natural Resources 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 website 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. Signage 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 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 but 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 Nov. 1

Trails are surfaced with crushed rock

Shod horses are strongly recommended

Best time to contact the park:

Summer: Sunday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 9 a.m.to 9 p.m.

Winter: Generally, 9 a.m. to 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

Email: forestville.statepark@state.mn.us

It takes just a call or email to find out much more about what the park has to offer and what kind of accommodations are available.

Taking a vacation is always good and spending time at a state park is a pretty darned good way to wrap up the summer and spend family time together before the kids head back to school.

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 Aug. 1.

Minnesota hunters were able to purchase 2011 deer licenses starting Monday, the same day the state’s hunting regulation booklet is available online at www.mndnr.gov/buyalicense. Booklets will be available in mid-August.

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 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. The changes, he said, reflect the agency’s interest in regulation simplification and the protection of the state’s deer from Chronic Wasting Disease.

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.

Dick Herfindahl’s column appears each Sunday in the Tribune.