🌤 Weather at St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25–73 °F | 60–85 °F | 28–76 °F | 9–32 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Stillwater 1 SE, 2 mi away, elevation 710 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Minnesota — Six undeveloped islands in the St. Croix River — accessible only by canoe or kayak! These islands are part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and offer primitive camping in one of the most pristine river corridors in the Midwest.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Minnesota |
About St. Croix Islands
St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area near Hastings provides access to islands in the St. Croix River — a National Scenic Riverway and one of the finest rivers in the Upper Midwest. The St. Croix forms the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin and was one of the first rivers protected under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (1968).
Things to Do
Canoeing and kayaking to the islands, camping, fishing for walleye and smallmouth bass, birdwatching (bald eagles are common), and paddling one of America’s first National Scenic Riverways.
Getting There
Accessible only by boat on the St. Croix River — a National Scenic Riverway forming the Minnesota-Wisconsin border. The islands provide primitive camping in one of the cleanest rivers in the Upper Midwest. The St. Croix was one of the first rivers protected under the 1968 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The river’s century-old log drive history is visible in iron ring bolts still embedded in riverside rocks.
Plan Your Visit
Access by canoe, kayak, or motorboat only — no bridge connections. Bring all supplies including water. The St. Croix River is a National Scenic Riverway — one of the first eight rivers protected under the 1968 Act. Outfitters in Taylors Falls (MN) and St. Croix Falls (WI) rent watercraft. Primitive campsites on the islands are first-come, first-served. Interstate State Park (Taylors Falls) has dramatic glacial potholes.
Insider Tips
River islands: St. Croix Islands SRA protects islands in the St. Croix River — a National Scenic Riverway forming the Minnesota-Wisconsin border. Pro tip: The St. Croix is one of the cleanest rivers in the Midwest — designated as one of the first National Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1968. Paddling: Access the islands by canoe or kayak — island camping offers a wilderness experience within 45 minutes of the Twin Cities.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Peak paddling and island camping season. Fall: River valley foliage. Spring: High water — experienced paddlers only. Winter: Eagle watching from the shore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a National Scenic Riverway?
The St. Croix was one of the first rivers protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (1968) — federal law that protects rivers from dams and development. The St. Croix and its tributary the Namekagon form a 252-mile National Scenic Riverway. Protection has maintained the river’s excellent water quality and natural character.
More parks in Minnesota: William O'Brien State Park and Gateway State Trail. See the full Minnesota state parks guide.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Minnesota state parks online at reservemn.usedirect.com.
Wildlife & Nature
St. Croix Islands SRA — boat-access-only islands in the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway — provides primitive camping on river islands. Bald eagles and osprey fish the St. Croix. River otters play in the current. Great blue herons nest in riverside rookeries.
Nearby Attractions
St. Croix River — surrounding. Wild River SP — along the river. Saint Croix SP — upstream. Taylors Falls — downstream.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash six feet or shorter (or portable enclosure) required at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Only service animals are allowed in beach areas — pets are prohibited on swim beaches statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Only service animals are allowed in state park lodging, camper cabins, yurts and tipis — no pet-friendly cabin program.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Emotional support/therapy animals do not qualify as service animals and are prohibited from park buildings.
Are dogs allowed at St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area?
Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.state.mn.us. More: Minnesota state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area
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