Are you seeking the best parks in Minnesota for weekend getaways? We find out about Voyageurs National Park which is popular for its undisturbed landscapes enclosed by water. On the other hand, Gooseberry Falls State Park which is the top-rated park in Minnesota and is also known as the gateway to the North Shore. Besides there are several parks located in the state that represent the state’s history, beautiful atmosphere and outdoor creations. These parks are Itasca State Park, Tettegouche State Park, Jay Cooke State Park and many more. To know about these parks keep on reading for more details.
Top Parks in Minnesota, US
Voyageurs National Park
Voyageurs National Park is in the northern region of Minnesota close to International Falls, US. It is Minnesota’s only National Park sprawled across 218000 acres of land. This park is surrounded by water and was established in 1975. This is the best water-based park in Minnesota. Also you can always check the updates on the National Park Service page to have updates on park activities.
Direction: Take a global flight to the Falls International Airport and rent a car or book a taxi. You will reach in 30 mins. This is the nearest route. The entrance to the park is through water. So rent a boat, canoe or kayak near the entrance.
Preferred Time to Visit: If you want to do water activities, then go in summer i.e July and August. Fall suggests a perfect time for stargazing due to the clear sky.
But do not visit this park in April(due to ice melting) and November(due to water freezing). Any kind of water activities like swimming and boating will not be permitted during these months.
Activities To Do
- First get a boat. Some best sites of the park can be accessed by boat only.
- Explore the Ellsworth Rock Garden.
- Search for northern lights.
- Go stargazing, camping and outing.
- Boating, house boating, kayaking, canoeing.
- Fishing in Lake Kabetogama.
- Stay in the only hotel in the land- the Kettle Falls Hotel.
- Paddle to the cliffs of Grassy Bay.
- Trek to overlook the beaver pond etc.
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Gooseberry Falls State Park is on the north shore of Lake Superior, in Silver Creek Township, Minnesota, US. It is prominent for its volcanic rock and waterfalls. It was changed from privately owned to open to the public in 1937. This is the best park in Minnesota for Kids.
Direction: The easy path to reach Gooseberry Falls State Park is from the north of Minnesota Highway Route 61. The parking board can be clearly seen. Follow it to arrive at the parking lot.
Time to Visit: If you don’t want the crowd and view a strong flow of fall, then visit in spring i.e March to May. Summer is a popular time, so it will be crowded. For the distinct colours of trees, visit in the fall i.e from September till the end of November.
Activities To Do
- If you visit in winter, you can go skiing in Gooseberry Falls.
- Go for an outing or a picnic near the shore of Superior Lake.
- Cycling or hiking along the Gitchi Gammi State Trail.
- Look at the majestic gooseberry waterfalls.
- Swimming on the shore of Lake Superior but not in the waterfall.
Itasca State Park
Itasca State Park is in Park Rapids, Minnesota, US. This state park is the first and oldest one in Minnesota. It is spread across 32690 acres of land in the northern region. It was assigned as a state park in 1891 to preserve the old pine trees.
Direction: It is most accessible through the U.S highway and from east of the Minnesota highway. The best way is a 4-hour drive from the Minneapolis International Airport.
Preferred Time to Visit: For winter weather, March is ideal. For family and kids-related activities, summer is better i.e June to August. Don’t want a crowd? Go during spring i.e may and June.
Activities To Do
- Waddling in the Mississippi headwaters.
- Explore the red pine trees.
- Climb the 100 ft aiton heights observation tower for a full view of the park.
- Trekking in the Brower Trail.
- Go boating, canoeing, kayaking in Lake Itasca.
- Perhaps if you are hungry and also want to relax, Douglas Lodge offers a historic feel with a stone fireplace.
- Itasca State Falls Park is one of the few places that has prevented ancient pines extinction.
Jay Cooke State Park
If you are searching for something unique like a hanging bridge, then this park is for you. Jay Cooke State Park is situated in Carlton County, Minnesota, US. It was officially designated as a state park in 1915. This state park is one of the most viewed ones in Minnesota.
Directions: You will find the visitor center of Jay Cooke State Park directly east of Minnesota Highway Route 210 after taking exit 239.
Time to Visit: Fall is the prime time to visit Jay Cooke State Park i.e September and October. You will face very few crowds. But for a good river view, spring and summer offer a good window i.e from May to August.
Activities To Do
- A must-see of Jay Cooke State Park is the swinging bridge right above the Saint Louis River.
- Try out skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
- Visit the Thomson Dam gorge.
- Trek in the Silver Creek Trail.
- Horsetrekking and mountain biking.
Maplewood State Park
Maplewood State Park is near to Pelican Rapids, Minnesota. This 9250-acre park showcases hardwood trees like basswood, sugar maple and oak etc which offer a distinct view during fall and autumn.
Direction: You will find the entrance to Maplewood State Park to the right of Minnesota Highway 108.
Preferred Time to Visit: If you want to fish or boat, then summer is the ideal window for you i.e from June to August. Leaf days festival is celebrated during late September till mid october.
Activities To Do
- Swimming near a sandy beach in Lake Lida.
- Go for a trek on horseback riding.
- You can go boating, canoeing, and kayaking here. Rent right from the park office.
- Great sport for wildlife watching, camping and picnic spots.
- Explore the numerous lakes inside Maplewood State Park like Beer’s Lake, Bass Lake, grass lake.
- You will find spacious campsites ideal for families and pets.
Cascade River State Park
If you are fond of hand fishing then don’t forget to roam in this state park. Cascade River State Park is in Cook County, Minnesota, US. It consists of 5 small falls. In this fall, the Cascade River meets Lake Superior.
Direction: Cascade River State Park is connected with Minnesota Highway 62. If you are driving from the south, you will find the parking area on your right. But if you are heading from the north, then the entry point of the park will be on your left.
Time to Visit: Spring is better if you want to view strong falls i.e May and June. Summer is the peak time for trekking and camping i.e july and August.
Activities To Do
- Walk near the Lake Superior shore.
- Fish for rainbow trout, salmon etc but by hand.
- The park provides amazing campgrounds for picnicking and family outings.
- Explore the small waterfalls and take photos near them.
Forestville State Park
For someone who loves exploring caves, Forestville State Park is the best state park in Minnesota for them. It is placed in Fillmore, Minnesota, US. It came under the state protection in 1963.
Direction: Head towards State Highway 16 that meets with Fillmore County 5. Head south then turn east towards Fillmore County 118. You will find the park entrance here.
Time to Visit: If you want to explore the cave, then go in summer i.e from June to August. The temperature inside the cave is 48 °C. But for trekking, fall is the prime time i.e September till October.
Activities To Do
- Wildlife watching like glacial snails, opossums, and rattlesnakes.
- Go inside the famous mystery cave i.e longest cave in Minnesota.
- Underground fishing in the mystery cave.
- Fishing for brown trout, brook trout and rainbow trout in Root River.
- Explore the 19th-century Forestville village.
- Horse riding, hill biking, camping in cabins or in campgrounds.
Great River Bluffs State Park
Looking for the most beautiful state park in Minnesota? Great River Bluffs State Park is a must-experience park for you. It is situated to the south of Winowa. The state acquired it in 1963 however opened it to public use in 1976. This state park is highly recommended for family outings.
Direction: The shortest path to reach the Great River Bluffs State Park is from County Road 103. After driving a few miles you will reach the parking spot in this area.
Time to Visit: If you are photogenic, then go during the fall i.e September and October. But if you are thinking of hiking or wildlife viewing, then visit between April and August.
Activities To Do
- Trek the King’s Bluff Trail.
- wildlife watching like bald eagles, white-tailed deer, hawks, coyotes, and goat prairies
- Go for fishing, paddling or canoeing in the mighty Mississippi River, etc.
- Many campgrounds are available for picnics, outings, with necessary facilities like drinking water, bathrooms etc.
- If you are in a hurry, then go through the Great River Road for a serene highway drive retreat.
Battle Creek Dog Park
This is the best dog park in Minnesota. Battle Creek Dog Park is a 35-acre off-leash dog park in Maplewood and is fenced on all sides.
Direction: You can easily reach Battle Creek Dog Park from McKnight Road. Turn towards Afton Road and you will see the parking lot.
Time to Visit: You can visit anytime except for 3 days in both October and November. It is closed at that time due to the deer bow hunt. You can visit the site for the information.
Activities To Do
- Your furry friend can dip in the two small ponds or in the larger gated ones.
- Go for a hike with your dog on fully fenced trails.
- A dedicated off-leash area is there so that they can play and jump around.
Tettegouche State Park
If you want a close view of the mighty Lake Superior, Tettegouche State Park is a must on your bucket list. Tettegouche State Park is in North Silver Bay, Minnesota, US. It was secured by Minnesota State in 1979 converting it from privately owned to government-owned
Directions: You can reach Tettegouche State Park directly from the Minnesota Highway Route 61. If you are driving from the south, you will find the parking on the right. If heading north, then the parking lot is on your left.
Time to Visit: If you want to view the waterfall, visit in spring i.e April and May. If you want to hike, then summer is ideal for you i.e from June to October.
Activities To Do
- Hiking along the Baptism River
- Trek in Palisade Head overlooking Lake Superior.
- For an easy hike, go to Shovel Point Trail.
- Book a cabin retreat near the Tettegouche Lake.
- View the Illgen waterfalls.
- For a picnic you can rent a cabin or turn towards the campgrounds.
Saint Croix State Park
Saint Croix State Park is the largest in minnesota spreading in 33895 acres of land. It is in Pine County, Minnesota, US and was established in 1943. If you want to overlook the whole area, you must visit Saint Croix State Park.
Direction: drive east of Minnesota Highway 48 then head right to Saint Croix Part Road 22. You will find guideboards with arrows for direction. Follow them to arrive at the parking lot.
Preferred Time to Visit: If you like snow activities then visit in winter i.e from December to March. But for the overall best trip, go in the fall ie september and October.
Activities To Do
- Climbing the fire tower, you can get a view of the whole state park.
- Canoeing at the shore of the little yellow banks.
- Go for an outing or picnic with your family near the banks of the Kettle River.
- wildlife watching like black bears, eagles, wolves, beavers etc.
- Hiking in the Two River Loop.
Travel Tips to Visit Parks in Minnesota
Packing Tips
For Outing
- Portable sleeping pads, water-resistant tents, foldable chairs & tables and a torch for visibility if staying at night are important to take.
- A small burner with fuel, waste bags, eco-friendly utensils, an insulated cooler, and wet wipes are other vital things.
- In most of the parks, many campsites will be given with amenities like showers, drinking water, bathrooms etc. so research about the place before visiting.
To Do Swimming
- Must bring sandals, swimsuits, quick-drying body towels, swim goggles and some extra handy outfits to wear after swimming with you.
- You will be hungry after doing so many activities. So mindfully pack some snacks that will keep you full for a longer period.
- Sunscreen, medical aid, and insect repellent will be needed as per your convenience.
For Trekking
- Must take light-weight packable rain jackets, water-resistant trekking boots for slippery roads, and sandals for crossing streams & shores.
- You will sweat a lot while walking. So always wear breathable fabrics instead of fitted clothes or full-length wear. Like shorts, tank tops, t-shirts etc
- Fabrics made of wool, synthetic, and polyester are more preferable because they are light and will dry very fast.
- Avoid cotton because it absorbs water like a sponge and it’s not comfortable for long hikes.
TIP
- Almost all of the parks in Minnesota except Voyageurs National Park accepts pets on their land but they must be leashed and the owners have to remove their waste.
- You will need a Minnesota state vehicle permit. For an annual pass, it is $35 which is valid for a year after purchase. For a one-day permit, it will be $7. For an additional vehicle, you will be charged an extra $19. If you are bringing a motorcycle, it will be $30. A disabled or military pass is $12.
- If you are planning to go for a family outing or picnic, then reserve your campsites as early as possible to avoid panicking last moment.
Conclusion
In the parks of Minnesota, you will find a whole lot of things to do. from camping in Forestville State Park, swimming in Gooseberry Falls State Park to stargazing in Voyageurs National Park. This blog offers you the best parks in Minnesota. However if you want to explore state parks only you can go through our Best State Parks In Minnesota blog as well. We hope this guide helps you in your next vacation to Minnesota.