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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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Minnesota
Heartland Region
Badoura State Forest
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BADOURA STATE FOREST
BADOURA STATE FOREST
Badoura State Forest in Minnesota is a serene and diverse natural haven, encompassing an impressive 206,000 acres of picturesque landscapes. Its dense forests offer a breathtaking tapestry of towering pines, vibrant hardwoods, and fragrant wildflowers, providing a haven for a myriad of wildlife species. The forest is adorned with sparkling lakes that allure visitors with their crystal-clear waters and offer opportunities for peaceful fishing, boating, and swimming delights. Trails meander through the verdant wilderness, inviting hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to immerse themselves in the tranquility and discover hidden gems awaiting around every corner. With its untouched beauty and abundant recreational possibilities, Badoura State Forest captivates the hearts of nature enthusiasts and offers a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
History of the Area
Badoura State Forest is a public forest located in north-central Minnesota, spanning over 14,000 acres in Itasca County. It has a rich and diverse history, with several key events and influences shaping its past.

Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Ojibwe people, who used the land for hunting, gathering, and traditional ceremonies. They had a deep connection with the natural environment and revered the forest.

In the late 19th century, American settlement began in the region. Logging became a prominent industry, and large-scale timber operations were conducted in what is now Badoura State Forest. The forest provided valuable resources for the growing lumber industry, aiding in the development and expansion of nearby towns.

Around the turn of the 20th century, concerns about deforestation and the need for conservation emerged. Minnesota started implementing a state-owned forest reserve system to protect valuable timber and promote sustainable practices. Subsequently, several tracts of land, including Badoura State Forest, were designated as state forests under the management of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Badoura State Forest was officially established on March 11, 1963. The forest was named after the Badoura Lumber Company, which had extensively logged the area in the early 20th century but later went bankrupt during the Great Depression. The state's acquisition of the land aimed to restore and maintain the forest ecosystem, promote reforestation, and offer recreational opportunities for the public.

Badoura State Forest continues to be primarily managed for timber production, wildlife habitat preservation, and outdoor recreational activities. The forest features diverse tree species such as red and white pine, aspen, birch, and oak. Its varied landscape encompasses rolling hills, wetlands, and lakes, providing habitats for a variety of flora and fauna.

Visitors to Badoura State Forest can enjoy activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, bird-watching, and nature photography. The forest is also part of the larger public lands network in Minnesota, offering connections to nearby state parks, wildlife management areas, and other recreational areas.

Badoura State Forest is a testament to the state's commitment to conservation and sustainable forest management practices, providing both economic benefits and natural beauty for generations to come.
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Trails
1. Jack Pine Trail: This trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you through the heart of Badoura State Forest, offering stunning views of jack pine stands and diverse wildlife.

2. Aspen Loop: A moderate difficulty level hike spanning about 3 miles, this path winds its way around beautiful aspen groves in the forest's southern region.

3. White Spruce Pathway: An easy-to-navigate pathway stretching for approximately one mile; it showcases some impressive white spruces within the state forest area.

4. Red Maple Route: Known for vibrant fall foliage displays due to an abundance of red maple trees along its course, this route covers roughly two miles across varying terrain levels making it suitable for intermediate hikers.

5. Birchwood Waypoint Track: Spanning over three miles with gentle slopes throughout most parts makes it ideal even for beginner-level hikers who can enjoy scenic birch tree clusters on their journey.

6. Wildlife Observation Trail: As suggested by name itself,this track offers ample opportunities to spot local fauna including deer,birds etc.It stretches out nearly four kilometers providing both leisurely walk or brisk hiking experience depending upon individual preference.

7. Wetland Walkabout: This unique trail allows visitors explore wetlands ecosystem present inside park boundaries covering distance close to five kilometres.

8. Northern Pines Hiking Course: For those seeking more challenging adventure,this six-kilometer long trek traverses dense northern pines section requiring good stamina but rewards participants with unparalleled natural beauty all round.

9. Prairie View Passage: It's relatively flat topography spread over couple kilometers provides excellent opportunity observe native prairie plants species while enjoying peaceful stroll amidst nature.

10. Oak Ridge Ramble: Covering slightly less than three kilo meters,it passes through oak dominated landscape presenting picturesque view especially during autumn season when leaves turn golden brown creating mesmerizing sight.

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Directions
1. Starting from Minneapolis, head north on I:35W for approximately 90 miles.
2. Take exit 214B toward MN:65 N/Cambridge/Princeton and merge onto MN-65 North.
3. Continue driving on MN:65 North for about 50 miles until you reach the town of McGrath.
4. In McGrath, turn left onto County Road 26/East Main Street and continue straight for about half a mile.
5. Turn right onto Highway 210 East/MN:27 East and drive eastward towards Cromwell.
6. Continue following Highway 210 East/MN:27E through Cromwell as it turns into Aitkin County Road (CR)18 after passing through Wright.
7. Follow CR18forapproximately20milesuntilyoureachtheintersectionwithAitkinCountyRoad(CR29).
8. Turnleftontothatroadanddriveabout10milestoenterBadouraStateForest.

Once inside the state forest area:
9. The main entrance will be clearly marked with signs indicating "Badoura State Forest.".
10. Park your vehicle at designated parking areas or trailheads before exploring any trails within the forest.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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