Deep Portage Learning Center
Exploring Woods, Water, Wildlife
Who We Are
Through the exploration of woods, water, and wildlife, Deep Portage prepares and inspires learners of all ages to sustain and celebrate our natural world.
Deep Portage Learning Center is a residential environmental learning center, fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Thousands of students from more than a hundred schools all over Minnesota visit Deep Portage each year to take part in environmental and conservation education programs.
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In the summer, Deep Portage offers a variety of youth camps. Topics include firearms safety, hunting and shooting skills, fishing, science, conservation, and outdoor recreation.
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Additionally, Deep Portage serves groups, organizations, area residents, and visitors with interpretive programs, tours, and events. Our eleven miles of trails are open year-round for birding, hiking, and skiing, and our woods, lakes, bogs, and more always have something for you to discover. Come visit us!
The Land
Deep Portage Learning Center is situated within the Deep Portage Conservation Reserve, 6,307 acres of beautiful glacial hills, lakes, rivers, and bogs. Wildlife abounds on the reserve. Deer, coyote, bear, fisher, and porcupine are just a few of the local residents. The reserve includes a mile of natural undisturbed shoreland of Big Deep Lake, one of Minnesota's cleanest lakes.
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As state land held in trust by Cass County, the Reserve is open to the public year-round. The land offers countless recreation opportunities including hiking, cross-country skiing, birding, hunting, and fishing. Take a virtual tour, or learn more about our trail system here.