Around the station

The Station was established in 1909 within Itasca State Park, which is Minnesota’s oldest state park. Seventy rustic buildings that comprise the Itasca Biological Station & Laboratories are situated on the eastern shore of Lake Itasca, near the headwaters of the Mississippi.

In addition to research and education facilities that include a library, a computer lab and a number of biology laboratories, the station features a dining hall, cabins and a range of recreational opportunities.

Volleyball, softball, soccer, basketball, badminton and horseshoe equipment are available for use on the David Parmelee Memorial Field. Registered visitors may use the Station’s canoes and kayaks. Required flotation devices and paddles are provided in the boathouse building adjacent to the dock. Motorized boats owned by the station are available to faculty for research purposes. Ping pong, foosball and various board games are found in the assembly hall adjacent to the dining hall.

Opportunities to explore extend well beyond the Station limits. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, biking and hiking within Itasca State Park are excellent. If possible, bring your bike to ride the 17-mile paved bike path in the park and for quick trips around the Station. Beginning in Summer 2012, a limited number of bicycles will be available for short-term checkout at the station office. Bikes, pontoons, fishing boats and other equipment are also available for rental at the Itasca Sports Rental, located just 1/2 mile from the station. For more information on Itasca State Park offerings, visit the Department of Natural Resources website.