Learn how to shoot a bow during an archery in the parks program June 27 at Myre-Big Island State Park.

With archers figuring prominently in blockbuster movies like “The Hunger Games,” “The Avengers” and “Brave,” these free programs at Minnesota state parks and excretion areas may be just the ticket to getting teenagers outdoors this summer with their parents and younger siblings. Trained archery instructors will provide an introduction to the sport, along with assistance in shooting a bow in a safe, supervised setting.

The archery in the parks program will take place at the picnic area between 2 and 5 p.m. No reservation is required and participants can drop in anytime during the program. All equipment and instruction is provided, but a vehicle permit ($5/one-day or $25 year-round) is required to enter Minnesota state parks and recreation areas. Children must be at least 8 years old to participate, and anyone under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Archery in the parks is part of a series of skill-building programs offered by the Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Parks and Trails. Other programs in the series introduce camping, rock climbing, paddling and fishing to beginners.

Archery in the parks programs are made possible with support from the Parks and Trails Fund, created after voters approved the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in November 2008. The Parks and Trails Fund receives 14.25 percent of the sales tax revenue and may only be spent to support parks and trails of regional or statewide significance.

For more information, call the park at 507-379-3403, visit www.mndnrgov/ican or contact the DNR Information Center at info.dnr@state.mn.us or toll free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.