Anoka County Parks Give MN Tech Corridor Residents a High Quality of Life

There are more than 11,000 acres of open space in Anoka County allocated to parks and trails. Residents can walk on paved paths or challenge themselves with advanced hikes across 26 different park units. More than six million people visit the Anoka County Park System annually, bringing a mix of locals and tourists to the region. There is something for everyone here, regardless of your age, ability, and experience in nature.

“We have a robust and diverse natural resource system,” says Jeff Perry, Director of the Anoka County Parks Department. “While summer is a popular time to get outside in Minnesota, you can find something to do outside year-round.”

The parks are a valuable asset to the Minnesota Technology Corridor because they make Anoka County a desirable place to live. Residents who move here for work can fall in love with the region and the natural environment. Learn about some of the programs offered by the Anoka County Parks System and immerse yourself in nature without driving for more than 10 minutes. 

Explore an Abundance of Programs and Parks

Each resident of Anoka County has their favorite hiking trail or secret lucky fishing spot; however, the parks department is always developing new programs and working on trails and paths to explore. Here are a few highlights of the Anoka County Parks System for anyone who wants to get outside.  

• Visit Bunker Beach, a 10-acre water park that features Minnesota's largest outdoor wave pool. 
• Schedule a tee time at the Chomonix Golf Course, an 18-hole course that is known for its wildlife spotting.  
• Attend an upcoming class or event to learn about nature and build your outdoor skills. Classes range from preschool to adult levels. There are also summer camps and homeschool programs.  
• Reserve a campsite at Rice Creek or Bunker Hills. Camping options range from primitive sites to furnished cabins. There are also canoe-in sites along the Mississippi and Rum rivers.  
• Plan your next event at the parks. You can reserve pavilions and picnic facilities or plan an event for up to 200 people at the Bunker Hills Activity Center.

“We can’t speak highly enough of the Anoka County Parks System,” says Greg Frahm-Gilles, Director of Economic Development for Anoka County Regional Economic Development. “Many people move to the Minnesota Technology Corridor because they want to work in a region that has easy access to nature. The parks create safe places for families to go and adventure opportunities for individuals.” 

Anoka County Parks are More Accessible Than Ever

People with disabilities can also enjoy the Anoka County Park System through a mixture of accessible trails and rental equipment. Many of the Anoka County parks have paved trails, accessible bathrooms, and wheelchair-friendly splash pads to support visitors. However, the park system also offers opportunities for residents to dive deeper into the natural ecosystem.

“Parks visitors can rent inclusive adaptable equipment, like wheelchairs that make cross-country skiing or beach access possible,” says Perry. “People with disabilities can explore nature through a mechanized track chair that goes through snow and other scenic areas where a typical wheelchair would get stuck.”

Equipment rentals are often based on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors are encouraged to call ahead to make sure the right items are available. 

Enjoy Unlimited Access to Anoka County Parks

Perry and his team at Anoka County Parks want to make visiting the region's natural wonders affordable. It costs $7 per vehicle for a daily permit into one of the parks, but residents can buy an annual pass for $30 per year. Residents with disabilities are offered a reduced rate of $5 per vehicle or $25 for an annual pass.

Additionally, Anoka County Parks have Free Vehicle Entry Days on the second Tuesday of every month. This allows residents to hike on a budget.

The Anoka County Parks pricing is similar to the Minnesota state park pass. If you want to explore beyond Anoka County, you can buy a state park pass for $35 per year.  

Access to Nature is Just One Location Advantage of the MN Tech Corridor

The Anoka County Parks Department works tirelessly throughout the year to support residents and make connecting with nature easy. This improves the quality of life in the region and makes moving to the MN Tech Corridor desirable. Employers can pull from a robust talent pool and have an easier time recruiting candidates to Minnesota.

Discover the other location advantages of bringing your organization to the MN Tech Corridor. Learn about our innovative utility providers and explore the premier sites available. We can’t wait to welcome you here.