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.
Where to Explore History
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 265–267: Big Year of Rivers
Join Brandon and new co-host, Ellen, for the start of a new season and a new Big Year to celebrate—Big Year of Rivers! Learn more about the three rivers that the Park District are named after, the impact of the rafting programs at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, and the history of the Mississippi River and what it might look like in the future.
Other Things To Do
Archery
Stationary ranges offer targets at a variety of distances, as well as a shooting tower. You can also test your marksmanship with a walk-through range featuring multiple shooting stations.
Archery ranges are open year-round and require a daily or annual pass.
Art Education
Silverwood Park and Gale Woods Farm offer nature-inspired art programs for children and adults.
Educational Farming
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
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
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 Areas
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.
