Minnesota State Parks
Contents
- 1 Minnesota State Parks
- 1.1 Minnesota State Parks Highlight Video
- 1.2 Minnesota State Parks Details
- 1.3 Camping
- 1.4 Hiking
- 1.5 Backpacking
- 1.6 Fishing
- 1.7 Geocaching
- 1.8 Hunting
- 1.9 Day Use Areas
- 1.10 Biking
- 1.11 Boating
- 1.12 Beaches
- 1.13 Rock Climbing and Mountaineering
- 1.14 Horseback Riding
- 1.15 Recreational Equipment Rentals
- 1.16 Caving
- 1.17 Winter Sports
- 1.18 Complete Minnesota State Park List and Addresses
- 1.18.1 Afton State Park
- 1.18.2 Banning State Park
- 1.18.3 Bear Head Lake State Park
- 1.18.4 Beaver Creek Valley State Park
- 1.18.5 Big Stone Lake State Park
- 1.18.6 Blue Mounds State Park
- 1.18.7 Buffalo River State Park
- 1.18.8 Camden State Park
- 1.18.9 Carley State Park
- 1.18.10 Cascade River State Park
- 1.18.11 Charles A Lindbergh State Park
- 1.18.12 Father Hennepin State Park
- 1.18.13 Flandrau State Park
- 1.18.14 Fort Ridgely State Park
- 1.18.15 Fort Snelling State Park
- 1.18.16 Frontenac State Park
- 1.18.17 George H Crosby Manitou State Park
- 1.18.18 Glacial Lakes State Park
- 1.18.19 Gooseberry Falls State Park
- 1.18.20 Hayes Lake State Park
- 1.18.21 Helmer Myre State Park
- 1.18.22 Interstate State Park
- 1.18.23 Itasca State Park
- 1.18.24 Jay Cooke State Park
- 1.18.25 John Latsch State Park
- 1.18.26 Judge C R Magney State Park
- 1.18.27 Kadunce River State Park
- 1.18.28 Killen Woods State Park
- 1.18.29 Lake Bemidji State Park
- 1.18.30 Lake Bronson State Park
- 1.18.31 Lake Carlos State Park
- 1.18.32 Lake Maria State Park
- 1.18.33 Maplewood State Park
- 1.18.34 McCarthy Beach State Park
- 1.18.35 Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
- 1.18.36 Minneopa State Park
- 1.18.37 Nerstrand Woods State Park
- 1.18.38 O L Kipp State Park
- 1.18.39 Old Mill State Park
- 1.18.40 Saint Croix State Park
- 1.18.41 Saint Croix Wild River State Park
- 1.18.42 Sakatah State Park
- 1.18.43 Scenic State Park
- 1.18.44 Sibley State Park
- 1.18.45 Split Rock Creek State Park
- 1.18.46 Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
- 1.18.47 Temperance River State Park
- 1.18.48 Tettegouche State Park
- 1.18.49 Upper Sioux Agency State Park
- 1.18.50 Whitewater State Park
- 1.18.51 William O’Brien State Park
- 1.18.52 Zippel Bay State Park
- 1.19 Explore The Country From Coast To Coast
- 1.20 State Parks By State
- 1.21 America’s State Parks
Welcome to the main page for Minnesota State Parks. This page is designed to provide information related to the many state parks located in the state of Minnesota. Below you will a list of all the state parks in Minnesota along with the address of the parks. Click on the links below for the individual state parks where you can find detailed information specific to that park.
The State of Minnesota Park Quick Facts: 52 State Parks | 10 State Forests | 9 State Wildlife Management Areas | 6 National Wildlife Refuges | 2 National Forests | 1 National Park So many beautiful resources in one State; Priceless
Minnesota State Parks Highlight Video
Check out the Minnesota State Parks highlight video.
Minnesota State Parks Details
Camping
With its abundance of nature and wilderness, there’s no shortage of great camping sites in Minnesota! Father Hennepin State Park is one of the best in the state; situated on the shores of Mille Lacs Lake, campers will fall asleep to breathtaking views of the sunset over open water. There are over 100 sites in this park, all of which feature flushing toilets and water spigots.
Visitors also love camping at Whitewater State Park with its bluff-lined hiking trails and the churning waters of the Whitewater River. The park’s sites have all the latest amenities, making it the perfect spot for those who want the best modern camping that Minnesota can offer.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is another great camping spot with stunning views and plenty of hiking trails. Those who love a rustic camping experience with plenty of outdoor adventure will find this to their liking. Set up your camp, split some firewood with your hatchet, and get your campfire going. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Situated along the beautiful St. Croix River, Wild River State Park is a favorite destination for camping enthusiasts. There are a wide variety of backcountry camping sites here, as well as plenty of outdoor recreational activities.
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Hiking
Afton State Park is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts with its over 20 miles of nature trails that meander through the park’s beautiful landscapes. A popular route is the popular North River Trail Loop, which runs along the St. Croix River and takes hikers to a scenic overlook.
One of the best state parks in Minnesota is Banning State Park, which features trails that end at the cascading Wolf Creek Falls. Other routes also trail alongside the Wild and Scenic Kettle River, as well as the ruins of a 20th century historic sandstone quarry.
Several hiking opportunities are also found at Jay Cooke State Park with approximately 50 miles of hiking trails. The Grand Portage Trail Loop and Silver Creek Trail both offer incredible views of the slanted bedrock landscape that the St. Louis River has exposed.
Those who want to explore the floodplain forests of cottonwood and willow trees unique to Minnesota should check out Fort Snelling State Park whose hiking trails meander through those. Additionally, routes here offer views of Snelling Lake and various other rivers.
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Backpacking
The 260-mile Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) that passes through several state parks, including Tettegouche State Park, is the crown jewel of Minnesota hiking trails. This is the perfect backpacking trail for those who want to explore the shoreline of Lake Superior, as well as several pebble beaches and jutting cliff sides.
Fishing
Lake Louise State Park is an incredible fishing hole ideal for anglers hoping to catch bass, crappie, sunfish, and more. Over 47 fish species have been found in the lake, making it one of the best spots in Minnesota.
Another great fishing spot is Fort Snelling Lake at Fort Snelling State Park. Here, anglers can cast for northern pike, sunfish, and crappie, among others.
Annie Battle Lake at Glendalough State Park is considered by many to be the best fishing location in Minnesota. The 355-acre lake is home to large populations of crappie, walleye, and bass so those fishing here are sure to come away with a bountiful catch!
Geocaching
Geocaching is a favorite family pastime in Minnesota, which means that many of its state parks feature hidden caches! Two of the best geocaching sites here are Whitewater State Park and Afton State Park.
Hunting
Large hunting areas are found at Beaver Creek Valley State Park and Lake Shetek State Park. Hunting at these parks are so popular and so extensive that the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources even encourages people to visit other parks instead during the hunting season!
Day Use Areas
There are plenty of incredible outdoor spots in Minnesota that are made for a great picnic excursion. The rolling hills of Sibley State Park are a favorite spot with peaceful views of natural landscapes unique to this part of the state.
At Interstate State Park, set your blanket down on the cliff’s lookout spots for a scenic and unforgettable picnic. However, there are also plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout the park.
The cascading falls at Grand Portage State Park also make for great picnic views. This is the perfect spot for those who wish to experience Minnesota’s breathtaking nature landscapes as they tuck into their meals.
Biking
Over four miles of mountain biking trails are found at Camden State Park, ranging from beginner-friendly to those ideal for more advanced riders. These routes meander through the beautiful scenery of the park, which makes for an unforgettable and picturesque adventure.
Those wishing for a longer and more challenging cycling ride should head over to Lake Louise State Park, which provides access to the 20-mile paved Shooting Star State Trail that will take you through some of the best views of Minnesota.
At Glendalough State Park, ride along the shorelines of Annie Battle Lake and Lake Emma. Biking trails at this park are a favorite among the state’s residents!
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Boating
The 5,685-acre Bear Head State Park features boat-accessible camping sites, as well as other boating facilities. Those who wish to explore Minnesota’s incredible nature while on the water will find this park to their liking.
Minnesota’s only national park, Voyageurs National Park, is also a great boating destination, whether you’re in a canoe, a motorboat, or a houseboat. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Rainy, Namakan, and Kabetogama lakes that are situated along the Canadian border.
Beaches
Minnesota boasts of the picturesque North Shore, as well as thousands of lakes, which means that it has plenty of unforgettable beaches perfect for your summer vacation!
Zippel Bay State Park has over two miles of sandy beaches. This park is an underrated destination in Minnesota so crowds here aren’t too large and you’ll undoubtedly enjoy some much-needed relaxation time.
The St. Croix River beach at Afton State Park is also a must-visit, especially for those who wish to swim in the river’s calm and deep-blue waters. The weekend crowds tend to get a bit rowdy, though, so keep that in mind.
If you’re looking to swim in the beautiful waters found in Northwestern Minnesota, then head over to Hayes Lake State Park. This is the perfect spot for keeping that scorching summer heat at bay!
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Rock Climbing and Mountaineering
The cliffs – also called “Dalles” – along the St. Croix River gorge in Interstate State Park is a favorite among daring climbers! The levels of climbing routes here range from beginner to expert so this is the perfect spot for rock climbing enthusiasts of all levels. Additionally, campsites found here are well-kept and excellent, making this park the ideal destination for climbers longing for a long and multiple-day adventure
Blue Mounds State Park also offers great climbing spots with boulders ideal for beginner climbers wishing to improve their skills. Keep in mind, though, that some areas are designated “no-climb” areas due to their loose and flaking rock so make sure to avoid these parts of the cliffs.
Shovel Point, located in Tettegouche State Park, is an ancient volcanic flow that exposes the bare cliffs above Lake Superior. This spot is frequented by climbing groups with routes that range from a few dozen to those more than a hundred feet away from the bottom of the cliff faces.
Horseback Riding
For many avid equestrians, Camden State Park and Fort Ridgely State Park are the best horseback riding spots in Minnesota due to their abundance of well-kept horseback riding trails. Both parks also offer many equestrian facilities so you won’t have to worry about the comfort of your beloved horse!
Recreational Equipment Rentals
Those who wish to explore Minnesota from the river’s vantage point should check out Interstate State Park, which offers kayak and canoe rentals.
Fort Snelling State Park also offers fishing gear rentals for those looking to try their hand at casting in one of the best spots in Minnesota.
Caving
Caving enthusiasts will undoubtedly love Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, which features Minnesota’s longest-known cave with its plethora of fascinating formations, stunning underground pools, and a maze of interconnecting passages. Mystery Cave is a treat to explore and is definitely a must-see for those visiting the state.
Winter Sports
The best place in Minnesota for incredible winter hikes is Afton State Park where an abundance of groomed ski and snowshoe trails can be found. Take in breathtaking views of the St. Croix River, as well as the dense forests and gorgeous prairie flowers that lie blanketed under thick snow.
At Gooseberry Falls State Park, marvel at the spectacular frozen falls found within! Ice climbing is permitted on the lower falls so those brave enough to scale these thrilling natural structures should surely take it on.
Over 12 miles of cross-country ski trails are found at Fort Snelling State Park although this is also a great destination to go on a winter hike. One of the best snowy routes here is the three-mile trail that encircles the wooded Pike Island at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. This is definitely a winter experience to remember!
Winter is the best time to visit Split Rock Lighthouse State Park with its incredible photo-ops of icy waves crashing against the shore. This iconic Minnesota spot is a favorite among residents and out-of-towners alike.
Complete Minnesota State Park List and Addresses
Here is a complete list of all the state parks in Minnesota along with the address for each park. Enjoy all that Minnesota has to offer for outdoor actives and natural beauty.
Afton State Park
6959 Peller Ave S Hastings MN 55033
Banning State Park
61101 Banning Park Rd Sandstone MN 55072
Bear Head Lake State Park
9301 Bear Head State Park Rd Ely MN 55731
Beaver Creek Valley State Park
15954 County Rd 1 Caledonia MN 55921
Big Stone Lake State Park
35889 Meadowbrook State Park Road Ortonville MN 56278
Blue Mounds State Park
1410 161st St Luverne MN 56156
Buffalo River State Park
565 155th St S Glyndon MN 56547
Camden State Park
1897 Camden Park Rd Lynd MN 56157
Carley State Park
50366 County Rd 4 Plainview MN 55964
Cascade River State Park
West 3481 Minnesota 61 Lutsen MN 55612
Charles A Lindbergh State Park
1615 Lindbergh Dr S Little Falls MN 56345
Father Hennepin State Park
41296 Father Hennepin Park Rd Isle MN 56342
Flandrau State Park
1300 Summit Ave New Ulm MN 56073
Fort Ridgely State Park
72158 Co Rd 30 Fairfax MN 55332
Fort Snelling State Park
101 Snelling Lake Rd St Paul MN 55111
Frontenac State Park
29223 County 28 Blvd Frontenac MN 55026
George H Crosby Manitou State Park
7616 Co Hwy 7 Finland MN 55603
Glacial Lakes State Park
25022 Co Rd 41 Starbuck MN 56381
Gooseberry Falls State Park
3206 MN-61 Two Harbors MN 55616
Hayes Lake State Park
48990 Co Rd 4 Roseau MN 56751
Helmer Myre State Park
19499 780th Ave Albert Lea MN 56007
Interstate State Park
307 Milltown Ct. Taylors Falls MN 55084
Itasca State Park
36750 Main Park Drive Park Rapids MN 56470
Jay Cooke State Park
780 MN-210 Carlton MN 55718
John Latsch State Park
US-61 Minnesota City MN 55959
Judge C R Magney State Park
4051 MN-61 Grand Marais MN 55604
Kadunce River State Park
MN-61 Grand Marais MN 55604
Killen Woods State Park
50200 860th St Lakefield MN 56150
Lake Bemidji State Park
3401 State Park Rd NE Bemidji MN 56601
Lake Bronson State Park
County Rd 28 Lake Bronson MN 56734
Lake Carlos State Park
2601 County Rd 38 NE Carlos MN 56319
Lake Maria State Park
11411 Clementa Ave NW Monticello MN 55362
Maplewood State Park
39721 Park Entrance Road Pelican Rapids MN 56572
McCarthy Beach State Park
7622 McCarthy Beach Rd Side Lake MN 55781
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
15066 Kathio State Park Rd Onamia MN 56359
Minneopa State Park
54497 Gadwall Road Mankato MN 56001
Nerstrand Woods State Park
9700 170th St E Nerstrand MN 55053
O L Kipp State Park
43605 Kipp Dr Winona MN 55987
Old Mill State Park
33489 240th Ave NW Argyle,MN 56713
Saint Croix State Park
30065 St Croix Park Rd Hinckley MN 55037
Saint Croix Wild River State Park
39797 Park Trail Center City MN 55012
Sakatah State Park
50499 Sakatah Lake Rd Waterville MN 56096
Scenic State Park
56956 Scenic Hwy Bigfork MN 56628
Sibley State Park
800 Sibley Park Rd NE New London MN 56273
Split Rock Creek State Park
336 50th Ave Jasper MN 56144
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road Two Harbors MN 55616
Temperance River State Park
7620 West MN-61 Schroeder MN 55613
Tettegouche State Park
5702 MN-61 Silver Bay MN 55614
Upper Sioux Agency State Park
5908 MN-67 Granite Falls MN 56241
Whitewater State Park
19041 MN-74 Altura MN 55910
William O’Brien State Park
16821 O’Brien Trail N Marine on St Croix MN 55047
Zippel Bay State Park
3684 54th Ave NW Williams MN 56686
Explore The Country From Coast To Coast
Below is a table of the 50 States in the US, with a link to the individual pages. Each individual page has a list of state parks, along with the address. You can link to the individual parks from there.
America’s State Parks
See the latest on our homepage at www.americasstateparks.org.