PIERRE, S.D. – Oakwood Lakes State Park will host a weekend of winter fun with the Cool Kids’ Classic Fishing Derby and the Groundhog Day Ski Event on Jan. 26 and 27, respectively.
“These events are a great way for the entire family to get active, get outside and have fun at the park,” said Becky Graff, district park manager at Oakwood Lakes State Park. “The park offers many opportunities for outdoor winter recreation that families can enjoy.”
On Jan. 26, children age 15 and under are invited to take part in the Cool Kids’ Classic Ice Fishing Derby. Registration begins at 11 a.m. CST at the Welcome Center. Bait is furnished and event staff will drill holes in the ice as needed. Fishing will take place in designated areas from noon to 1:30 p.m. CST with weigh-in to follow. Winners will be announced at the award ceremony following fishing. Snacks will be available throughout the day, and numerous door prize drawings will be held.
On Jan. 27, the Groundhog Day Ski and Snowshoe event will feature a non-competitive cross-country ski poker run and a non-competitive snowshoe poker run. Prizes will be awarded in numerous categories. The day also features the annual Sons of Norway Barnelopet Children's Ski Run. This event is free for kids 13 and under.
Registration for the ski events begins at the park shop at 12:30 p.m. CST. The event will start at 1 p.m. CST. Cookies, hot chocolate, and various Norwegian treats will be served throughout the day. Snowshoes are available to borrow from the park; call to reserve. In the event of no snow, walks will be held.
The fishing derby is sponsored by Gas ‘N Mor, Brookings Hy-Vee Food Store, Porter’s Bait, 1481 Grille, Cubby’s, Sioux River Outfitters, Runnings, DQ, Oakwood Lake Development Association, Bel Brands USA, Dunham’s, and the Edward Lorenz Memorial.
The cross-country ski tour is sponsored by the Sons of Norway, Sioux River Bicycles and Fitness, Brookings Radio, 1481 Grille, Bel Brands USA, SDSU Bookstore, Five Star Call Centers, Granite Sports, and The Ridge.
Park entrance licenses are required to enter the park and will be available for purchase. For additional information on the weekend’s events, call Oakwood Lakes State Park at 605.627.5441.
|