2006 State Parks Events Calendar Available Online
The special events calendar for South Dakota's state parks and recreation areas has grown to include more than 140 events throughout the state for people of all ages, abilities and interests. The calendar of events may be viewed on the state parks website at www.sdgfp.info/Parks by clicking on “Upcoming Events.”
The first events of the year begin Saturday, Jan. 7, with two Walk in the Park Programs -- “Snowshoe Social” at 1 p.m. at Fort Sisseton Historic State Park near Lake City and “Animal Signatures” at 2 p.m. at Farm Island Recreation Area near Pierre. 
More than 55 walks are scheduled in 2006 as part of the Walk in the Park program. The Walk in the Parks are a series of educational programs that are co-sponsored by the S.D. Department of Health and the S.D. Department of Education. Game, Fish and Parks staff and volunteers lead the walks at state parks and recreation areas across South Dakota.
"Participants in the Walk in the Park programs will learn about park history, wildlife, plants and/or outdoor skills and have a chance to take part in outdoor recreation with friends and family," said Linda Sandness, coordinator of visitor services with the Division of Parks and Recreation.
The Walk in the Park schedule complements many long-held annual events, including the Mickelson Trail Trek in September, the Fort Sisseton Festival in June and the Sioux River Folk Fest at Newton Hills in August, as well as many more.
Most events are free with a valid park entrance license. Call the park directly for more information on individual events. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather. For more information on the Walk in the Park programs and for a full listing of events for 2006, visit the state parks website at www.sdgfp.info/Parks or call (605) 773-3391.