08/29/2026
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is inviting Minnesotans to help in creating the next Minnesota state parks license plate. The theme for this plate is the North Shore and the Lake Superior agate. The North Shore refers to the western shoreline of Lake Superior from Duluth to the Canadian border.
Vehicles with the new plate, which is expected to be available for purchase in January 2027, will be able to enter all Minnesota state parks and recreation areas without a vehicle permit.
“Every plate purchase supports Minnesota's state parks and trails,” said Ann Pierce, DNR Parks and Trails Division director. “When someone chooses a state parks and trails license plate, they're directly funding the people and projects that keep these places open, safe and ready for visitors — from the staff who keep things running, to trail repairs and building improvements.”
The DNR encourages anyone with a connection to Minnesota's outdoors to participate. Artistic experience isn't required — creative ideas from Minnesotans of all backgrounds are welcome.
Contestants can begin working on their designs now. Entries will be accepted online via the DNR website this fall from Sept. 15 through Oct. 31. Complete contest rules are available at mndnr.gov/parksplate/contest, and the entry form will be available at this same webpage when the entry period opens Sept. 15.
