History Exploration

Step back in time to uncover the life of a legendary wilderness guide or follow a family of immigrants on their long journey to Minnesota.

After that, investigate the farmstead that transformed the Upper Midwest into America’s Dairy Belt or relax lakeside on a Gilded Age estate whose majestic gardens have been inspiring guests for over a century. 

By exploring history, you’ll unlock the stories of life on this land and see how it still influences us today.

Our history exploration summer camps will bring your camper back in time to learn new skills from long ago.

Be sure to check back here for updates on when offerings will be available online so you can start adding history exploration camps to your wish list.

All Programs & Events

Upcoming history exploration programs and events.

Ever wondered how a park got its name? What's the story behind that old building off the trail? Who lived here before it was a park? 

Submit your questions here and the Three Rivers history team will choose one question to answer in each History in the Parks e-newsletter issue. 

After that, subscribe to the e-newsletter to see if your question has been answered!

The Wandering Naturalist

Episodes 231–233: Ripples in the Wetlands

Wander through the wetlands with Angela and Brandon as they uncover the impact of muskrats. Learn about their connection to the survival of the wetlands, how invasive hybrid cattails and muskrats affect each other and Three Rivers' approach to managing them. 

The Three Rivers Blog

August 15, 2023

A historical interpreter walks us through his favorite part of one of his favorite parks, uncovering some unwritten history.

May 19, 2020

For centuries, parks have provided people an outlet from the stress of daily life. Learn about the history of parks in the U.S., including Three Rivers Parks, as places for relaxation and leisure.

December 09, 2019

Winter solstice falls on December 21 and marks the shortest day of the year. Discover solstice stories told around the world and explore ancient celebrations honoring this magical time of year.

Other Things To Do

Archery

Archery

A woman aims a bow and arrow at a target.

Stationary ranges at Elm Creek and Carver Park Reserve offer targets at a variety of distances, as well as a shooting tower. Or test your marksmanship with a walk-through range featuring multiple shooting stations. Open year-round.

Art Education

Art Education

a woman making pottery on a wheel.

Silverwood Park offers nature-inspired art programs for children and adults.

Educational Farming

Educational Farming

A young girl waters plants in a greenhouse.

At Three Rivers, those who might not have an opportunity to see the ins and outs of a real working farm get a chance to learn where their food comes from, meet some animals and explore farm life at Gale Woods.

Formal Gardens

Formal Gardens

View of garden columns

Take in the beauty of the colorful blooms. Smell the sweet, fragrant flowers. Breathe in the fresh air. Relax to the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Our formal gardens at Noerenberg are meticulously maintained to offer visitors a spot of breathtaking beauty and serenity.

Nature Education

Nature Education

A naturalist shows a jar of pond water to a young boy.

If you want to get up close and personal or learn a little more, visit Mississippi Gateway Regional Park and Eastman, Lowry or Richardson nature centers. You can hike the trails, interact with seasonal exhibits, observe the unique characteristics of different wildlife species up close, conduct your own science experiment and meet a live animal. 

Play Area

Play Areas

Colorful play area with slides and climbing strutures

Create new memories at our play areas. Three Rivers has multiple areas designed for varying ages and abilities where toddlers to teens can let their imagination run wild. Monkey business never sounded so fun.