If you are reading this, you are invited to the Minnesota Spring Wingnight - Yes, that means you!
This is a weekend campout at a private site, at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve in Rockford, Minnesota. You will not be charged any money to camp with us. This event is paid for, through the bwca.com members and their fundraising efforts. Again, this event is free to all members and guests of the bwca.com forum.
When you camp with us, we will not ask you to pay for camping fees. Donations are always accepted but you will be camping with us for free. You will not have to pay State Park Vehicle License Fees either.
Again, donations are welcome but not necessary.
The dates are April 27th, 28th and 29th. You may arrive anytime on Friday April 27th. The gates will be open at 6am. The Wingnight Committee will be present and available for any assistance.
Children are most welcome! Parents, remember that weather conditions change without notice in Minnesota, so please pack extra warm clothes for your little ones.
**Children are not allowed to play or tend the fire without a parent present. Please talk to your children before the gather so they understand this.
Parents - please clean up after your munchkins and keep a watchful eye on 'em.
Last spring was a muddy cold weekend so plan accordingly.
The site offers a large, very private area that is permitted for our use only. There is not a 10pm "Quiet Time" enforced because there are no other campers to disturb. Which means, late night fire chat is allowed. This site is very private.
The large building on the site is also ours to use. It offers protection from severe weather (I've rode out a nasty tornadic storm in that building) and it was invaluable at our last few gathers because of the cold and rain and wind....and snow.
The bathrooms were maintained daily by the park personel and are located in our camp area. There is plenty of parking but remember that this area can get muddy during the spring.
The lake is non - motorized and is canoe and fisherman friendly! . Volleyball and horseshoe pit at campsite. Several fire pits Tent space city! Trees for hammocks No balloon head rangers! Close to shopping and stores Close to the Twin Cities Wildlife abundant Alcohol allowed in bottles or cans. (No kegs - No hard liquor) --------------------------------------------------- Trails galore!
Mountain Bike Trail (3.5 miles) - This trail begins at the Lake Rebecca rental building. Most of the trail winds through old fields and remnant maple-basswood forest. The trail passes an overlook of the swan refuge pond where birds can regularly be seen.
Paved Bike/Hike Trail (6.5 miles) - This trail is a single loop through the park with rolling hills and scenic views. There are rest stops along the trail. This trail serves as a connection to the north edge of the park reserve.
Turf hiking trail (3.9 miles) - In addition to the paved trail, these turf trails are self-guided nature trails through hills, prairie marsh and upland woodlands. A map is available at the rental building.
Horse Trails (9.8 miles) - Lake Rebecca offers scenic trails for horseback riders. Trailer parking is available. User fees apply for each horse and rider age 16 or older. Three Rivers Park District does not rent horses.
For a complete trail map, visit ThreeRiversParks.org --------------------------------------------------------- River Access - There is an access point for canoes onto the Crow River in the southwest corner of the park on County Road 50.
Play Area - Newly renovated, the Lake Rebecca play area has a “Big Woods” theme featuring components such as a tree house, several ground climbers, and slides fabricated to look like fallen trees and roots
Fishing - For tiger muskies, largemouth bass, walleyes and pan fish are available in Lake Rebecca. There are two accessible fishing piers along the shores, with one located in the bay and the other near the swimming beach for shore fishing.
Pets in the Park - Pets are allowed at group camp areas; however, pets are not allowed in picnic areas, beach areas or play areas. Pets are allowed on paved trails at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, but they are not permitted on turf trails. Pets must be attended at all times and on a maximum of a 6-foot leash.
Please Leave no Trace! This area has a large abundance of wildlife, including coyotes, raccoons and skunks.
Potluck will be on Saturday afternoon - so bring a dish to share. All I can say is that if it's good and you like it...bring it. The variety of food will amaze you.
There is no electric. I'll bet you can work around that, 'eh? Bring a lantern if you have one.
The Lake is very canoe friendly. No motorized boats, electric only. Bring your canoes or kayaks and your fishing gear. The Muskies are HUGE in there! ----------------------------------------------------------- Directions: Lake Rebecca Park 9831 Rebecca Park Trail Rockford, Minnesota 55373 (763) 694-7860
South of Rockford -
Take 494 North to Highway 55 West. (Left) (Stay on 55 West approximately 15 miles)
Take a left on County Road 50 (Rebecca Park Trail)
You will go over a set of railroad tracks and the road will curve hard to your left. One block down, the road will curve hard to your right. Do not go right!!! You will see a dirt road in front of you. This is actually the road you want to be on. Watch for traffic!
You will see the group camp ahead about 4 blocks on the left. ____________________________________________________________________
North of Rockford -
Take 94 East to the Monticello exit 193 - Which is Highway 25. Take a right and follow 25 for approximately 9 miles to Highway 55. Take a left and follow 55 for another 10 miles to County Road 50 (Rebecca Park Trail). Take a right.
You will go over a set of railroad tracks and the road will curve hard to your left. One block down, the road will curve hard to your right. Do not go right!!! You will see a dirt road in front of you. This is actually the road you want to be on. Watch for traffic!
You will see the group camp ahead about 4 blocks on the left. _________________________________________________________________ Feel free to ask any questions!
You all know how to use maps so I think we are set! See ya very soon paddle pals!
My understanding is that you guys generally have a raffle of some kind. I don't usually come to these things (work!), but I have hammock gear I would like to contribute if you guys don't mind.
In deed we do have a raffle. Any donations will be welcome. If you have something setting around the garage, workshop or shed that some one could use, please feel free to contact Diva or myself.
Counting the months! Hopefully I can make it. Planning on it so far.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
All items donated will be placed into the raffle which will happen on Saturday afternoon. You must be present to win. No purchase necessary. You will have opportunities to win tickets throughout the weekend. All items donated will be enjoyed by those attending the wingnight.
We would like to try to make this Wingnight about those that are present and on the gathering, rather than a fundraiser being the focus of the event. There are many legalities to fundraising, plain and simple and this definitely falls from the original concept of what "Wingnight" is.
This year will include a few different surprises and every single person who attends will benefit from it.
We haven't forever ruled out fundraising but have turned our focus more on the short weekend we have together.
I can see where Diva is coming from. Maybe a fund raiser in the fall if everyone is inclined. But Spring, we need to be out paddling and enjoying the weekend more... It ain't going to rain is it? Bring your tow straps! If in fact a fund raiser is initiated I'd be in, but I'm just saying I'm not expecting it as it is a lot of work for those putting on the event.
quote Divainthewild: "We would like to try to make this Wingnight about those that are present and on the gathering, rather than a fundraiser being the focus of the event. There are many legalities to fundraising, plain and simple and this definitely falls from the original concept of what "Wingnight" is.
This year will include a few different surprises and every single person who attends will benefit from it.
We haven't forever ruled out fundraising but have turned our focus more on the short weekend we have together. " i totally understand nana. thanks for clarifying.
quote Divainthewild: "We would like to try to make this Wingnight about those that are present and on the gathering, rather than a fundraiser being the focus of the event "
Totally agree with this. People can give funds to charity any time they want, no need to do it at Wing Night. If there was another fundraiser in the future, I would say it should to some group that works in and for the BWCA. Like those that clear portages. Better yet, it should go toward a Wing Night Christmas party at a northwoods lodge!
1/25 - I have to add to my original comment. After I wrote it I thought I should add more and then JB hit on what I was thinking. This should be about the group. About like-minded individuals that share a connection to something beautiful and wonderful. A time to get-together and meet those one hasn't met yet and rekindle friendships that began online or at a previous wing. To build and form a strong camaraderie in a group. A group of really great people!
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
Thank-you to Mr and Mrs InTheWild for all your hard work organizing the Wing Nights. And to the others on the committee. I think there's a committee.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
Jeff I agree with you on the donating anyone can donate at any time.
Let's make WingNight about our group and have fun.
Christmas party sounds good.
This spring should be a lot of fun.
We have a great committee that do a great job. I wish Darys would reconsider and join us. Ask Diva I don't do this very often unless soup is involved but PLEASE join us.
I hope everyone understands that I do speak for the committee and many other members of this forum. We are totally dedicated in making this a Wingnight you wont forget...it's gonna be hard to top the last few....but we have every intentions of doing so. Stay tuned for some really cool details..........
I love your hearts and I'm thrilled that this is such a giving and caring group! For real!
Figured I might throw in a few pics for anyone who might not have attended before.
I hope this helps to give you an idea what we have to work with. Yes their will be a raffle. If you can't attend and want to donate any old gear get a hold of Diva or myself.
quote Soledad: "My two boys are already asking about when they get to back and make stick forts at Rebecca.
Hope its not TOO HOT! ;)"
I just hope it's dry... but not too dry! :) I'm comin' rain or shine though. If Butthead brings a turkey, I'll bring the thermometer. :) and something else. For those who have never been there, the food on saturday is to die for. If you live in the cities, you need to cancel all other plans... to good to miss!
quote nctry: "quote Soledad: "My two boys are already asking about when they get to back and make stick forts at Rebecca.
Hope its not TOO HOT! ;)"
I just hope it's dry... but not too dry! :) I'm comin' rain or shine though. If Butthead brings a turkey, I'll bring the thermometer. :) and something else. For those who have never been there, the food on saturday is to die for. If you live in the cities, you need to cancel all other plans... to good to miss!"
Thanks Ben! My old one is still somewhere in MN, and not much use.
butthead
“There is more stupidity than hydrogen in the universe, and it has a longer shelf life.”
? Frank Zappa
quote TwoByGreenCanoe: "Anybody notice that Midwest Mountaineering moved their expo to the same weekend as wingnight. They normally have it two week sooner." your right chuck-bummer-i was looking forward to both
Well that sucks! I'll miss both this year as I will be on St Louis. Bummer
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
quote tg: "quote TwoByGreenCanoe: "Anybody notice that Midwest Mountaineering moved their expo to the same weekend as wingnight. They normally have it two week sooner." your right chuck-bummer-i was looking forward to both"
Sorry - our dates are solid and paid for. We've had our dates since last fall. No possible way in the world to switch it. We are only a half hour west of the Twin Cities so I'm sure some of you can dart off the MM for their show.....if you wish.
quote Divainthewild: "Sorry - our dates are solid and paid for. We've had our dates since last fall. No possible way in the world to switch it. We are only a half hour west of the Twin Cities so I'm sure some of you can dart off the MM for their show.....if you wish. " Just looking that option over right now. Thanks
quote luft: "Well THAT stinks... what were they thinking! Do we have the option to change our weekend?"
Change the weekend for the MM show? Really? If you've been to one MM expo...you been to all of them. Same crowds, same deals that really don't exist, same information seminars that are overcrowded...
I think MM should change THEIR date, so they don't loose so many customers :)
"Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."
Psalm 119:105
quote luft: "Well THAT stinks... what were they thinking! Do we have the option to change our weekend?"
FIELDTRIP!
"Far more interesting than the chase itself is the observation, the study of the life histories of the strange and wonderful creatures of the wilderness." President Theodore Roosevelt
Unable to attend. My son Will gets his Eagle Scout on that weekend. Happy mom and proud dad. His mom is the scoutmaster. Proud of them both!
Joy is a great teacher, but so is dispair. Wonder is a great teacher, but so is confusion. Hope is a great teacher, but so is disillusionment. And life is a great teacher, but so is death. To deny yourself any of those in any aspect is not experiencing life totally.
quote nctry: "Probably hit MM on Sunday... Need a place to keep canoe trailer though."
Ben, You can park your canoe trailer in my driveway if needed. The house is sitting empty in a quiet neighborhood less than 10 minutes from downtown. If interested, let me know. I'll give you the address and send a picture so you will know where to go. I'll also inform the neighbors so they'll know you'll be there.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
quote dicecupmaker: "Unable to attend. My son Will gets his Eagle Scout on that weekend. Happy mom and proud dad. His mom is the scoutmaster. Proud of them both!"
Congratulations to him! That is a tremendous accomplishment. I know it to be true. Destined to be one of the most memorable and important days of his life. Congrats again. To both.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
? J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
quote HikingStick: "I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?"
I could too, but the lure of Wing Night is to great. I figure I have all summer to paddle. But only a couple occasions to hang out with the awesome bwca.com folks. You'd be missed as well as you'd be missing out. Have fun if you go to the BW... I'm sure your friends would be welcome at the gathering also.
quote nctry: "quote HikingStick: "I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?"
I could too, but the lure of Wing Night is to great. I figure I have all summer to paddle. But only a couple occasions to hang out with the awesome bwca.com folks. You'd be missed as well as you'd be missing out. Have fun if you go to the BW... I'm sure your friends would be welcome at the gathering also."
Yes! Bring your buddy to Wing NIght and paddle Rebecca! Ya got all summer for the bdub.
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
quote HikingStick: "I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?"
Know what I'd do- experience the BWCA vs, talking about it. Me, I'll be going to watch the Grand March of my daughter's prom that weekend. Glad I didn't have to choose between a trip and that event.
"The trouble with the world isn't that people know too little, but that they know so much that just ain't so."
Mark Twain
quote HikingStick: "I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?"
Andrew, bring your guitar and let's swap some songs there. After that, paddle your butt off all summer!
We all have to believe in something. I believe I'll go paddle.
Someone take good notes at this spring wing. I'll be in St Louis
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” Ralph Waldo Emerson...and...“Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".
quote OneMatch: "quote HikingStick: "I'm torn. I want to attend Wing Night, but I have an opportunity to do an early season trip into the BWCA with a buddy on the same weekend (Friday through Monday). What to do...?"
Andrew, bring your guitar and let's swap some songs there. After that, paddle your butt off all summer!"
That's the opportunity I'll miss the most if I skip wing night.
My daughter is ambassador for our town (think "princess"--not a royalty program, but the same job description), so we have weekend events just about every weeekend from the end of May through August. Between that and my teaching schedule, I have few options for going in during the summer.
I'm torn!!!
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
? J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
hoping to make it myself this year but naturally i am in another city for the entire week prior which could have an impact on my plans. Ordered up some Burts Bees "Tips n Toes" kits, if they ship on time i will donate, in case i can't make it assume i can just give to Jan and he can deliver. i've ordered like 70 kits that you guys could hand out. not sure how many folks are planning to attend.
quote KTorell: "hoping to make it myself this year but naturally i am in another city for the entire week prior which could have an impact on my plans. Ordered up some Burts Bees "Tips n Toes" kits, if they ship on time i will donate, in case i can't make it assume i can just give to Jan and he can deliver. i've ordered like 70 kits that you guys could hand out. not sure how many folks are planning to attend."
KTorell, I can pick the stuff up if you cannot attend. I see your profile says your from Eagan. I'm just south of you in apple valley. I hope you can attend though. Let me know.
quote bobbwca: "I might make it, waiting to see what happens with work the week before."
It would be great to see ya Bob. We really wanted to come to your camp but Mark and I are going to just be coming back from my daughter and my son's weddings in Florida. Have a super good weekend!!!!!!!
Bump! Only 10 days away! DO you all have your camping gear ready? As of now possible rain so bring your rain gear. It is Minnesota tho, so anything can change.
C-H-A-L-L-E-N-G-E: Do not let what you cannot do, interfere with what you can do.
quote jb in the wild: "quote KTorell: "Diva, Jan also shot me an email letting me know he isnt going. going to do my best to make it, if not, I'll take Tony up on his offer"
I'll put money on Jan being there, he can't help himself when it comes to playing in the mud:)
JB" Yeah, I kinda miss him. He has forgotten about me :( We used to be so close............
quote floatstanley: "quote jb in the wild: "quote KTorell: "Diva, Jan also shot me an email letting me know he isnt going. going to do my best to make it, if not, I'll take Tony up on his offer"
I'll put money on Jan being there, he can't help himself when it comes to playing in the mud:)
JB" Yeah, I kinda miss him. He has forgotten about me :( We used to be so close............" Float, Maybe he will surprise us :)
C-H-A-L-L-E-N-G-E: Do not let what you cannot do, interfere with what you can do.
im going to try to stop by saturday to camp, on the way home from the trip. i have two bridges that i broke, they really need to be mended. not 100% sure if i will make it...hope it works out though. if it works, id be stinky and gross...that ok? :)
quote kanoes: "im going to try to stop by saturday to camp, on the way home from the trip. i have two bridges that i broke, they really need to be mended. not 100% sure if i will make it...hope it works out though. if it works, id be stinky and gross...that ok? :)"
Yeh! The B's will have another big kid to make marshmallow taffy with! : )
Stinky and Gross? We can fix that with a mud bath!
quote kanoes: "im going to try to stop by saturday to camp, on the way home from the trip. i have two bridges that i broke, they really need to be mended. not 100% sure if i will make it...hope it works out though. if it works, id be stinky and gross...that ok? :)"
Jan, we will make room for you and I am sure the majority of us will be gross and stinky too!
C-H-A-L-L-E-N-G-E: Do not let what you cannot do, interfere with what you can do.
Who's bringing the bloody mary's? S says she is going. She will drink a beer in a pinch. We are staying right across from the duluth pack store this weekend! Looking forward to some good company!
without the bad times: the good times wouldn't seem so good
We shoulda had bfoot wear a tracker so we can see his progress. OMG - I have to unpack so I can pack. I'll get to that right after work tonight. I can't WAIT to see you all!!!
quote Divainthewild: "We shoulda had bfoot wear a tracker so we can see his progress. OMG - I have to unpack so I can pack. I'll get to that right after work tonight. I can't WAIT to see you all!!!
" Agreed. bigfoot needs a tracker. Don't forget float Diana! He has been very antsy while you were gone.
C-H-A-L-L-E-N-G-E: Do not let what you cannot do, interfere with what you can do.