Ramsey State Park
Tucked away in the city of Redwood Falls in southwestern Minnesota, Alexander Ramsey Park holds a unique distinction: spanning 256 acres, it is the largest municipal park in the entire state. Known affectionately by locals as the “Little Yellowstone of Minnesota,” this breathtaking public space offers a level of dramatic topography and diverse attractions that outshine many standard state-run parks.
Established in 1911 as a State Park before being transferred to the city in 1957, the park is carved out of a deep granite gorge. Visitors come to marvel at cascading waterfalls, explore historic 1930s-era structures, and even visit a surprisingly robust native animal zoo. Completely free to enter and open year-round, Alexander Ramsey is an essential stop for anyone exploring the Minnesota River Valley.
Alexander Ramsey Park at a Glance
- Location: 299 Park Rd, Redwood Falls, MN 56283 (Redwood County)
- Entry Fee: The park and the zoo are completely FREE to enter.
- Main Attractions: The spectacular Ramsey Falls, a free native animal zoo, historic CCC bridges.
- Facilities: 31-site modern campground, playgrounds, reservable picnic shelters, and restrooms.
- Original Name: The area’s Dakota name is Caŋ ŝa yapi, meaning “the place where they paint the trees red.”
The Little Yellowstone of Minnesota
The defining geographical feature of Alexander Ramsey Park is the dramatic, winding granite gorge carved by the Redwood River and Ramsey Creek. This rugged topography creates a micro-environment filled with towering bluffs, deep ravines, and mature hardwood forests that feel entirely separated from the flat agricultural plains surrounding the city.
Ramsey Falls
The absolute crown jewel of the park is Ramsey Falls. Here, the waters of Ramsey Creek plunge spectacularly over a rugged granite ledge, creating a series of beautiful, tiered cascades before joining the Redwood River below. Well-maintained viewing platforms provide excellent, safe vantage points to photograph the rushing water.
Historic CCC Architecture
Throughout the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed the local landscape. As you explore, you will encounter gorgeous, rustic stone masonry. The most famous example is the Swayback Bridge, constructed by hand in 1938 and officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Ramsey Park Zoo and Recreation
Unlike almost any other park of its kind, Alexander Ramsey Park manages its own free, on-site zoo dedicated primarily to native midwestern wildlife. It is a fantastic, unexpected bonus for families visiting the area.
| Park Attraction | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| The Animal Zoo | The zoo features large, open enclosures housing massive American bison, majestic elk, white-tailed deer, and a highly active, constantly bustling prairie dog town. There are also exhibits featuring various bird species and goats that children are often permitted to feed. |
| Paved Hiking Trails | The park boasts roughly four miles of wide, fully paved, multi-use trails that navigate the steep terrain, making it relatively easy for strollers and casual walkers to reach the scenic river overlooks and waterfall platforms. |
| Trout Fishing | Ramsey Creek is an officially designated, DNR-stocked trout stream. Anglers with the proper Minnesota fishing and trout stamps can wade directly into the cool waters below the falls in search of elusive brown and rainbow trout. |
Camping in the Gorge
For visitors looking to extend their stay, the park operates a highly rated, 31-site modern campground nestled directly within the park’s scenic boundaries. The camping season generally runs from early May through mid-October.
All 31 main sites feature robust 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, making them perfect for modern RVs. A handful of primitive, un-powered tent sites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground provides a comfortable, family-friendly experience with crucial amenities like free Wi-Fi, modern restrooms with hot communal showers, convenient laundry facilities, and a sanitary dump station. Because of its popularity, advance reservations for the electrical sites are highly recommended, especially during peak summer weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a State Park or a City Park?
It is technically a city park. While it was originally established as a Minnesota State Park in 1911, ownership and management were officially transferred to the City of Redwood Falls in 1957. As a result, you do not need a Minnesota State Parks vehicle permit to enter.
Can we go swimming below the waterfalls?
No. Swimming or wading directly near or directly below Ramsey Falls is strictly prohibited due to dangerous undertows, slippery granite rocks, and unpredictable currents. Visitors must remain on the designated observation decks.
What are the hours for the Ramsey Park Zoo?
The animal exhibits are generally viewable during standard park hours (dawn to dusk). Because the zoo consists mostly of large, open-air pasture enclosures for the bison and elk, you can walk along the perimeter fences at almost any time of day.
Visit Minnesota’s Little Yellowstone
Discover towering waterfalls, historic bridges, and native bison without paying an entry fee.
📍 Primary Location: 299 Park Rd, Redwood Falls, MN 56283
🌐 Official Website: Redwood Falls – Alexander Ramsey Park
📞 Park Office Phone: (507) 637-4004
