Dakota County, MN

Green Squad volunteers help our county events recycle more and create less waste. Green Squad volunteers are composed of Dakota County Recycling Ambassadors who are trained to be good stewards of our resources and to help others make smart decisions when it comes to recycling and waste management.

ATTENTION: Volunteers must first complete Dakota County's Recycling Ambassador training to participate in Green Squad events.

This charming 57-acre park provides a quiet get-a-way in the midst of West St. Paul. The park features a large picnic and playground area that overlooks Thompson Lake and miles of wooded trails that link Thompson County Park to Kaposia Park and to the Mississippi River Regional Trail. Thompson County Park is also the home of the Dakota Lodge — a four-season event center that is perfect for weddings, reunions, meetings, banquets, retreats, parties and much more.

What better way to enjoy a summer afternoon in Minnesota than fishing? No boat? No worries. Take A Kid Fishing gives folks a chance to enjoy a popular Minnesota pastime comfortably from our fishing dock on beautiful Thompson Lake at Thompson County Park in West St. Paul. Learn about fishing and related topics through hands-on exhibits and vendors. There will also be door prizes, giveaways, fun games, art activities and food trucks to help fill up your afternoon with fun. 

A variety of volunteer opportunities are available to support this community event. Whether sharing your fishing knowledge and experience with our younger fishing enthusiasts or just with general event support, there is something for everyone. To ensure a high-quality experience, pre-registration is required to volunteer. Help us make this event a success and get hooked on volunteering! 

Whitetail Woods Regional Park is located in Empire Township in the center of Dakota County, one mile north of the Vermillion River. Whitetail Woods provides year round fun from sledding down hill in the winter to enjoying a walk through the flowering prairie during the spring to taking in the relaxing sounds of an outdoor concert during the summer. Looking to get away for a weekend? Unique cabins for rent offer year-round comfy lodging for you and your family to explore the outdoors.