Known as the land of 10,000 lakes, Minnesota boasts beaches, forests and parks for nature enthusiasts. While the state does not have any specifically gay parks, it does have plenty of gay-friendly beaches and campgrounds. If you and your sweetheart are nature buffs, or if you are looking to meet that outdoorsy someone special, Minnesota could be the perfect vacation destination for you.
Climate
Before you plan your trip to Minnesota, be aware that the state undergoes extreme fluctuations in temperature throughout the year. Average temperatures vacillate between six degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 70 degrees in the summer, but record temperatures have plunged to -60 degrees Fahrenheit and soared above 114 degrees Fahrenheit.
Minnesota Gay Issues
Minnesota has one of the United States' most educated and healthy populations. In 1997 the state enacted a constitutional amendment to ban marriage for same-sex couples. It also still has a law against sodomy on the books. Minnesota has gender-neutral laws against domestic violence, laws against hate crimes and nondiscrimination laws. Trial courts have also granted second-parent adoptions, meaning that gay couples can adopt children.
LGBT Community
Minnesota has an active community of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people. There are a number of online publications aimed at this community specifically in Minnesota including Outfront Minnesota, Lavender and OutWoods, a publication specifically for gay camping enthusiasts in the state.
Beaches
Because of the state's plethora of lakes, outdoor enthusiasts are able to go boating and water skiing and relax on shores. While most public parks welcome people of all orientations, there are a few lakes that are known to attract those of the gay population. Visit Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, Lake Rebecca Park Reserve or Eagle Lake Regional Park.
Campgrounds
If you are into roughing it -- as in sleeping in a tent and skipping showers -- check out the 320 Campground. This private campground is located in a wooded country setting with horses. It is family-operated but has a very liberal atmosphere, and the grounds display several rainbow flags. If you are not that into wilderness adventures, the campground also has sites with private areas, bath houses and a hot tub.
Activities
Minnesota's gay-friendly parks and outdoors organizations are perfect for water sports in the summer thanks to the abundance of lakes. You can boat, fish, water ski or swim. There are also miles of trails for mountain bikers, equestrians and hikers to enjoy year round. If you are not into winter sports, try cross-country skiing.
Special Events
Meet more gay people in Minnesota's parks by attending some of the special events that occur. For the biggest gay event of the year, make your way to the Pride Festival held every summer in Minneapolis' Loring Park. This festival attracts an average of 300,000 LGBT people annually.
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