The County Park System was established in 1984 to develop, manage, maintain, and coordinate park and recreation resources throughout Itasca County.  

The Land Department provides numerous outdoor recreation opportunities through its Park System in cooperation with the MnDNR, USFS, cities, and townships.  These opportunities include parks, campgrounds, public accesses, and trails.  

The Park System is supported by a nine-member citizen Park and Recreation Commission and guided by the Recreation Resources Plan.