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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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Savanna State Forest
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SAVANNA STATE FOREST
SAVANNA STATE FOREST
The Savanna State Forest in Minnesota is a picturesque natural gem encompassing over 15,000 acres of prairie and oak savanna ecosystems. This diverse landscape offers a magnificent blend of grassy plains, scattered trees, and gently rolling hills, creating an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Nature enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails that wind through the forest, providing opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. Additionally, the forest is a haven for birdwatchers, as it serves as a breeding ground for a variety of rare and endangered bird species. Whether one seeks tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty or thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, the Savanna State Forest presents an enchanting escape into Minnesota's wilderness.
History of the Area
Savanna State Forest is a state forest located in Minnesota, specifically in the northern part of the state. Here is a brief history of Savanna State Forest:

1. Establishment: The forest was established in 1939 as a part of Minnesota's state forest system. The primary objective was to manage the land for sustained timber production and outdoor recreation.

2. Land Acquisition: The state forest comprises about 14,300 acres of land that was acquired in multiple phases. Initially, the state purchased several smaller tracts of land from private landowners to establish the forest.

3. Conservation and Restoration Efforts: Over the years, the management focus of the Savanna State Forest has evolved from primarily timber production to include conservation and restoration efforts. The forest management activities now aim to enhance wildlife habitat, protect water quality, and promote ecological diversity.

4. High-quality Deer Habitat: Savanna State Forest is known for its high-quality deer habitat. The forest's unique mix of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and open areas, provides an ideal environment for deer population growth and wildlife viewing opportunities.

5. Recreational Activities: The forest offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. This includes hunting, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and camping. The forest has designated trails and fishing areas to facilitate these activities.

6. Forest Management: The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the Savanna State Forest. They employ sustainable forest management practices, such as selective logging and reforestation, to maintain ecological balance and meet timber production goals.

7. Collaboration: The DNR works in collaboration with local communities, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders to manage and protect Savanna State Forest's natural resources effectively. This collaborative approach ensures that the forest remains healthy and accessible for future generations.

It is important to note that while this information provides a general overview of the history of Savanna State Forest, there may be specific details or events that are not covered here. For a more in-depth understanding, researching local archives, historical documents, or contacting the Minnesota DNR would be recommended.
Camping
1. Savanna Portage State Park: This park offers 61 drive-in sites, two backpacking sites and four walk-in campsites.

2. Big Sandy Lake Campground: Located near the southern edge of the forest, this campground has over a hundred camping spots with amenities like showers and flush toilets.

3. Prairie River Retreat & Campgrounds: Offers RV hookups as well as tent-only areas for campers looking to get closer to nature.

4. Moose Lake Agate Bay Resort & Campground: A family:friendly resort that provides both cabin rentals and spacious campsites along beautiful Moosehead Lake.

5. Savannah Forest Horseback Riding Camping Grounds: For those who enjoy horse riding while camping can opt for these grounds which are equipped with corrals or tie stalls at each site.

6. Wildhurst Lodge And Campgrounds: It is located in Finlayson offering full hookup RV Sites including water/electric/sewer facilities.

7. Banning State Park: About an hour south from Savannah state forest, it also offer great options such as camper cabins , group camp etc.

8. Rice lake National Wildlife Refuge: Although not directly inside savannah state but its close proximity makes it another viable option .It allows dispersed primitive camping on designated area only.
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Trails
1. Savanna Portage Trail: This 39-mile trail is a challenging hike that takes you through the heart of the forest, offering stunning views of bogs and pine forests.

2. Big Sandy Lake Overlook Trail: A short but steep half mile trek leads to an overlook with panoramic views over Big Sandy Lake.

3. Tamarack Nature Trail: An easy one-mile loop perfect for families or beginners, this trail winds its way around several small lakes and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

4. Continental Divide Hiking Trails: These trails range from moderate to difficult in difficulty level as they traverse hillsides along ridges where water flows either north towards Hudson Bay or south toward Gulf Of Mexico depending on which side it falls on!

5. Moose River ATV/Hiking Loop: The multi-use path stretches about 20 miles long providing hikers with diverse landscapes including wetlands, hardwoods groves and river vistas while sharing space occasionally with ATVs riders too.

6. Savannah Wildlife Pond Walking Path: It's a shorter walk at just under two miles round trip; however, visitors are likely to see various bird species making their homes here during different seasons throughout year.

7. Oak Savannah Forest Restoration Area: This area has multiple interconnected paths allowing hikers explore restored oak savannas featuring native grasses & wildflowers alongside mature oaks trees.

8. Wild Rice River Canoe Route: Though primarily meant for canoeing, there's also hiking opportunity available following same route giving unique perspective into aquatic ecosystems present within state park boundaries.

9. Bog Walk Interpretive Boardwalk: Short yet informative boardwalk journey across peat bog showcasing carnivorous plants like pitcher plant, sundews etc. , rare orchids plus other specialized flora adapted survive harsh conditions prevalent here.

10. Pine Island Multi-purpose Groomed Winter Trails: During winter months these groomed cross-country ski/snowshoe/hike trails provide excellent way to enjoy snow covered landscapes of Savanna State Forest.

11. Savannah Logging Camp Trail: This trail offers a glimpse into the area's logging history with interpretive signs and remnants from old campsites.

12. Wildlife Pond Loop: A 1-mile loop around a wildlife pond, this easy hike is great for birdwatching or spotting other local fauna.

13. Moose River Trails: These are series of interconnected loops providing hikers options choose according their fitness levels & time availability while exploring various ecosystems present within forest boundaries.

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Directions
1. Start by heading north on I:35 from Minneapolis or south on I-35 from Duluth.
2. Take Exit 209 for MN:23 toward Sandstone/Askov and turn east onto MN-23.
3. Continue driving on MN:23 for approximately 15 miles until you reach Askov.
4. In Askov, take a left onto County Road 32/E Park St and continue straight for about half a mile.
5. Turn right onto Co Rd 61/N Main St and drive for another half mile before turning left to stay on Co Rd 61/Sand Creek Blvd E/Old Hwy #48 (signs may also indicate "Savanna Portage").
6. Follow this road as it winds through scenic countryside landscapes; after around six miles, you'll enter the boundaries of Savanna State Forest.

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Minnesota State Parks

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