Discover outdoor recreation programs, classes and lessons for adults, youth and families. Carver County Parks offers a variety of opportunities to learn new skills, explore nature and stay active throughout the year.

Many programs are offered in partnership with local parks and recreation departments, community education organizations and other community partners.

Program Registration

Browse available programs and register online.

• Register for Parks Programs and Activities

Registration Policies

Review registration, cancellation and refund policies before enrolling in a program.

• View Program Cancellation and Refund Policies

Community Partners

• Central Public Schools Community Education 
• Eastern Carver County Community Education
• Waconia Community Education 
• Watertown Mayer Community Education 
• Chanhassen Parks & Recreation
• Chaska Parks & Recreation
• Victoria Parks & Recreation 
• Carver County Library
• Carver County Historical Society
• University of Minnesota Extension

Create lasting memories and discover new traditions at Carver County Parks. Throughout the year, the parks host a variety of special events that connect visitors with nature, recreation and community.

Whether you're exploring candlelit trails, learning about maple syrup production or spending a weekend under the stars, there is something for all ages to enjoy.

Annual Special Events

Popular events include:

• Candlelit Nights at Baylor
• Maple Syrup Festival
• Minnewashta Mud Run
• Camping with the Stars

Event dates, registration requirements and details may vary each year.

Learn More

View upcoming special events, schedules and registration information.

• View Special Event Information

Carver County Parks offers private recreation and educational programs for groups of all sizes and interests.

Programs can be customized for families, schools, scout troops, churches, corporate teams, youth organizations and other groups.

Available Program Activities

• Archery
• Canoeing
• Kayaking
• Outdoor cooking
• Log rolling
• Fire building
• Nature and outdoor recreation activities

Additional program options may be available based on group size, location and season.

Program Information and Booking

Explore available private program offerings and activity options.

• View Private Group Program Opportunities

To request a program or discuss your group's needs, contact Carver County Parks.

Email: parks@carvercountymn.gov

Explore Carver County Parks at your own pace with self-guided activities and educational resources designed for individuals, families and groups.

These activities encourage outdoor exploration, nature discovery and recreation throughout the park system.

Activity Guides

Download and complete these self-guided activities during your next park visit:

• Family Scavenger Hunt
• Park Adventure Quest
• Leaf Hunt
• Track Finder

Educational Videos

Learn more about nature, recreation and park activities through these educational videos.

• Watch the Introduction to Disc Golf Video
• Watch the Maple Syrup Virtual Tour
• Watch the StoryWalk Video
• Watch the Nature Walk Video

Additional Resources

Explore more educational videos and outdoor recreation resources on the Carver County Parks YouTube channel.

• Visit the Carver County Parks YouTube Channel

Geocaching is a fun way to discover new places, learn about the outdoors and enjoy recreational adventures with family and friends.

What is Geocaching?

Geocaches are typically small, weather-resistant containers hidden in outdoor locations. Participants use GPS coordinates to locate the cache and may find a logbook or small trade items inside.

When exchanging items from a cache, visitors are encouraged to leave an item of equal or greater value for future participants.

Learn more about geocaching and search for caches at:

• Visit Geocaching.com

Private Geocaching Programs

Carver County Parks offers customizable geocaching programs for schools, scout groups, youth organizations, corporate teams, families and other groups.

Programs may include:

• Introduction to GPS navigation
• Geocaching instruction and techniques
• Nature-themed geocaching activities
• Environmental education challenges
• Team-building activities
• Custom treasure hunts

Popular program themes include:

• Geocaching for S'mores
• Tree and nature identification
• Environmental education challenges
• Puzzle and scavenger hunt activities

Each program includes instruction on GPS use and geocaching best practices.

Geocache Registration and Guidelines

Visitors who would like to place a geocache within the Carver County Parks system must obtain approval before installation.

Register a Geocache

To request approval for a geocache location, complete and submit a Geocache Site Registration Form.

• Download the Geocache Site Registration Form

Questions

For questions about geocaching or geocache registration, contact Carver County Parks.

Phone: (952) 466-5250
Email: parks@carvercountymn.gov

Help care for Carver County parks and trails while making a positive impact in your community.

Volunteer projects are available for individuals, families, schools, scout troops, community organizations, corporate teams and other groups.

Volunteer opportunities may include:

• Tree planting
• Landscaping and habitat restoration
• Trail and park cleanup
• Litter and debris removal
• Other park improvement projects

Learn More

Explore available volunteer opportunities and learn how to get involved.

• View Volunteer Opportunities and Information

A signed participation waiver is required for all Carver County Parks programs, activities and events.

Please review and complete the waiver before participating in a program or event.

• Download the Events and Activities Participation Waiver (PDF)