Minnesota Master Naturalist

Course Registration

BWBR - Long Lake Conservation Center Camp Big Woods, Big Rivers

Long Lake Conservation Center, Palisade website

28952 438th Lane
Palisade, MN 56469

Long Lake Conservation Center in Aitkin County, invites ADULTS to summer camp! This learning experience is a Minnesota Master Naturalist Certification course and an opportunity for kids at heart to experience the joys, memories, and thrills of summer camp. Campers explore the Big Woods, Big River Biome in Aitkin County (the county with most of the Mississippi River). We discover the natural history of this biome by going on geology treks, observing wildlife, and learning about the rich cultural history of the region. We connect to this place, the woods, and the mighty Mississippi. In conjunction with our Master Naturalist trainings, we investigate in hands-on learning, like summer campers: we do archery, crafts, have campfires, make friends, and create memories.

Camp BWBR happens at Long Lake Conservation Center, a Residential Environmental Learning Center in Palisade, MN. Only 2.5 hours away from the metro, less than 2 hours away from St. Cloud, and 1 hour away from Duluth; Long Lake is an easy trip to the Northwoods. The camp/course will begin on Monday and is followed by a 40 hour week of learning and exploration. The 40 hours includes multiple field trips, guest speakers, and class in Long Lake’s modern facilities or out on 760 beautiful acres.

Local residents will be able to attend daily from 8am to about 5:30pm every day of the week. Additionally, those who travel to the Northwoods for a week long getaway will be able to stay at the Center in modern lodges. Cost varies depending on what the participant prefers. Participants can choose which options they wish to purchase during check out.
br> Basic 40 hour course (no lodging or meals): $295

40 hours course with homemade, hot lunches only. Monday-Friday: $335

Week long getaway! 40 hours course with lodging and breakfast, lunch, and dinner: $550

All course costs include manuals and supplies which will be distributed the first day of class.
br> What to expect: Outdoor learning! Long Lake is lucky enough to have 760 acres of classroom that we intend to utilize. Learning about the outdoors happens outdoors at Long Lake! Participants should prepare for a week of MN weather in September ... could be 90 degrees and humid or 60 degrees and raining. Also, prepare for in-the-woods exploration. Think pest prevention!

Learning at Long Lake is not only outdoors but it is hands on! We spend most of our time moving, doing, discovering. There will be some PowerPoint's and presentations, but 80% of the course is active! (Activities provide variable options depending on abilities, but most activities happen outdoors)

In addition to 40 hours of training, MN Master Naturalist requires the completion of a group capstone project. Capstone options will be presented on Monday, and participants will choose a capstone that they can achieve before graduation on Friday!

For those considering a weeklong stay: Long Lake CC is geared for youth. Our main business is school field trips. We invite thousands of youth learners to explore, conserve, learn about, and appreciate nature. Our lodging is large lodge buildings with dorm rooms designed for eight kids (4 bunk beds, a bathroom, a shower, and vanity). Long Lake will place one participant per room unless noted for a couple (spouses, friends). A packing list will be sent, but do not worry about packing light! Pack for comfort!

See you at Camp!

The course cost is $295 and includes course manuals and supplies.

If the course cost is a hardship, please fill out the scholarship application. After the scholarship is fully processed, you will receive a code to be entered in the on-line registration process. Please wait until you receive that code to complete registration.

Course Dates:

Meeting from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. on:

Instructor Information

Pamela Brand

Courtney Dowell

Sponsor Information

Long Lake Conservation Center


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