Nestled in the middle of the 2,700-acre Baker Park Reserve, just 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, is a rustic, yet awe-inspiring residential center. The Baker Near-Wilderness Settlement offers guests a unique opportunity to reconnect with the natural world. Away from modern distractions, guests can rediscover their sense of wonder, the simple joys and camaraderie of exploring the outdoors, and the warmth and glow of the wood stove.

The Settlement features eight comfortable cabins, an expansive multi-purpose lodge, miles of trails, and a variety of natural habitats and program offerings. Each of the cabins has eight beds, a wood stove, and a nearby cooking pad with grill and seating. The William M. Baker Lodge features a meeting/activity room that will seat 120-lecture style and 80 for meals. The log lodge features a large stone fireplace, wrap-around porch, modern restrooms, and an institutional kitchen.

Staff-led Programs

Educational Programs | Rental Group Programs | Scout Programs | Senior Programs | Summer Camps

Our programs include the following focus areas:

Natural History - forest ecology, birds, pond study, seasonal programs, etc.
Outdoor Life Skills/Recreation - survival, orienteering, canoeing, archery, etc.
Cultural History - Native Americans, archaeology, maple syrup, etc.
Group Interaction - team-building
Large-group and Evening Activities - campfires, night hikes, etc.

Day & Overnight Group Information
The Settlement is available to all groups (schools, scouts, families, organizations, etc.) at reasonable rates and open to either day or overnight use. Food is not provided, but the full-service kitchen (with stove, refrigerator, freezer, coffee maker, etc.) and everything needed to cook either inside or outside, is available at no charge. Staff will provide custom programming based on the group's interests and desires.

Review Day Group Fees & Policies and Overnight Group Fees & Policies.

Non-programmed facility day rental is also available. Although drop-in public visitation is not allowed, 7 or 8 weekends per year are set aside for "Cabin Camping" when individual families or friends may rent a cabin, get away from the "rat race" and relax and join in Naturalist-led programs. Cabin Camping weekends can be reserved up to 6 months in advance and are typically NOT offered in summer months. Seasonal public programs are listed in the program and events calendar.

All groups are provided with firewood and cooking equipment as needed. Also available to all groups are the kitchen refrigerator and coffee makers. Kitchen cooking and equipment use is available upon request. A welcome and orientation chat is given to all groups. Kitchen and wood stove use orientations are given when applicable. You may request a detailed packet of information at 763/694-7724 or 763/694-7856 during business hours. Pre-trip or inquiry visits to the Settlement can also be arranged.

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