Minneapolis Parks & Rec / Minnesota DNR

Fort Snelling Outdoor Skills & Adventure Center Study

The Fort Snelling Outdoor Skills and Adventure Center (OSAAC) project establishes a gateway to the Minnesota State Park and Regional Park Systems by giving visitors an opportunity to gain confidence in skills and experience with outdoor activities they can use in parks throughout the state.

A partnership between the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Parks and Trails division and the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB), the OSAAC project particularly targets underserved urban and minority populations in the Twin Cities metro area in an effort to introduce those communities to the skills needed to take full advantage of the well-established park systems in all seasons.

The master plan, encompassing 50 acres of Fort Snelling’s historic Upper Post, addresses the National Historic Landmark status through its organization of formal open space in the old Parade Ground, location of the Gateway Visitor Center along a historic street turned pedestrian walk, and provision for backcountry skills areas in the old golf course. Minnesota biomes found in parks throughout the state are used to differentiate the various site program areas and provide varying experiences throughout the OSAAC. Outdoor programs are paired with environmental condition that suites the activity. For example, rock climbing is situated in the Northern Coniferous Forest biome, to recall to the cliffs of the North Shore. Other programs include hiking, biking, overnight camping, cultural events, educational programs, orienteering, and various winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.