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In case you eat a little too much on Thanksgiving, the Minnesota DNR is offering a way to work it off for free this Friday.

One of the great things-- and there are many-- about living here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes is the incredible state park system and nature areas that the Department of Natural Resources manages. From one of the many scenic parks along the North Shore to Carley State Park near Plainview, Minnesota really IS a beautiful state.

And if you want to get out and enjoy one of those state parks, you'll be able to do it for FREE again THIS Friday, November 25th, because it's the last of four DNR Free Park Day. And according to the DNR, that means you can put away your wallet-- your money's no good at any of the 75 Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas that day, as they're all offering free admission to everyone.

The DNR notes that while the entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does get you inside any state park, where you can enjoy over 1,300 miles of trails, it does NOT cover other amenities or user fees for activities like camping, rentals, or special tours.

The DNR says the goal is to "encourage families to spend time together with a walk outdoors. Research shows that walking offers multiple benefits, from increased creativity and better brain function to more flexibility and stamina. So you won't just burn calories, you'll also improve your well-being."

The DNR also notes that Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. So, if you wanna hit the trails this Friday, check out the six Minnesota state parks that are closest to Rah-Rah-Rochester...

And in case your wanderlust has you looking for other places to explore here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes this weekend or later this year, keep scrolling to check out 10 amazing places where you can 'escape' Minnesota... without leaving the state!

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