DNR will close parks Thursday night before July 4 holiday weekend

​

The possibility of a state government shutdown is about to ruin the July 4 holiday weekend for a lot of Minnesotans, because the Department of Natural Resources has ordered that its parks be closed Thursday night.

That means no camping, no restrooms or water facilities at campgrounds, no service on state trails, nothing, in any state campground.

Not only that, but you'd better hustle before July 1 if you want a hunting or fishing license, because sales will be suspended -- in person, by phone, and online.

In fact, the DNR says its entire website will be taken down, replaced by a statement regarding the shutdown, should it actually take place. Details here.

The GOP-led Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton still don't have a budget deal nailed down. And if they don't come up with one by midnight June 30, the shutdown goes into effect on July 1.

There are going to be some very irate outdoorsy folks come Tuesday if the lawmakers don't hammer this thing out.