“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.” — Sigurd Olson
I find it special that beyond the lakeside cabins and snowy streets, Minnesota’s state parks are full of wonder. I love how this state blends clear blue water, woodland trails, and wide-open skies into moments of discovery for kids and grown-ups alike. I look forward to days that start with loon calls and end with s’mores beside a glowing campfire.
To me, Minnesota state parks mean hiking riverside trails and admiring waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park, swimming and skipping rocks at Itasca State Park, and climbing to sweeping bluff-top views at Great River Bluffs State Park. We always bring our bikes to Lake Bemidji State Park, where paved paths circle through the forest and boardwalks lead us into bird-filled bogs. Whitewater State Park is a family favorite for trout streams, scenic cliffs, and splashy creek fun, while Tettegouche State Park never fails to amaze with its Lake Superior views and dramatic hiking trails. Whether we’re paddling a quiet lake, crunching leaves underfoot in fall, or snowshoeing past frozen pines in winter, Minnesota’s parks bring calm, wonder, and adventure to every season.
Picture this: The kids are climbing on glacial rocks, spotting deer among the trees, and roasting marshmallows by the water—all before lunch in a Minnesota state park.
"Lakes, loons, and log cabin trails? This is Minnesota with kids!"
Unique Minnesota State Parks:
1. Bear Head Lake State Park - a 25-minute drive from Ely
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Ely, MNHighlights:
If you’re dreaming of serene waters, forested trails, and crisp northern air, Bear Head Lake State Park is calling. Often compared to the Boundary Waters, it’s a peaceful yet adventure-packed escape for all ages.Recommended For:
Hikers, families, paddlers, anglers, and winter explorers seeking a scenic Minnesota experience near Ely.What I Love: ♥
The sandy beach, boating and fishing on Bear Head Lake, four-season trail options, and its reputation as “America’s Favorite Park.”- Swim at the clean, sandy beach during summer or paddle through quiet waters surrounded by dense pine forest.
- Fish the lake for walleye, northern pike, and bass—perfect for a peaceful day with a line in the water.
- Hike, snowshoe, or ski the extensive trail network that winds through 5,540 acres of unspoiled northern wilderness.
- Explore year-round—Bear Head Lake is just as magical under snow as it is in peak summer sunlight.
Distance from Ely:
About a 25-minute drive southwest via MN-169 and Bear Head State Park Road.How to Get to Bear Head Lake State Park:
From Ely, head south on MN-169, then turn west onto County Road 128 (Bear Head State Park Road). Follow signs to the park entrance at 9301 Bear Head State Park Road.2. Blue Mounds State Park - a 45-minute drive from Sioux Falls
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Location:
Luverne, MNHighlights:
If you love big skies, ancient pink cliffs, and the chance to spot bison in the wild, Blue Mounds State Park is a unique Minnesota treasure. With rock climbing, prairie hikes, and a touch of literary history, it offers something for every kind of explorer.Recommended For:
Rock climbers, prairie hikers, wildlife lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking wide-open landscapes in southwestern Minnesota.What I Love: ♥
Towering Sioux Quartzite cliffs, a protected bison herd, swimming in the reservoir, and a visitor center housed in a famous author’s former home.- Climb the park’s Sioux Quartzite cliff faces, a rare opportunity for rock climbers in Minnesota.
- Swim in the small, spring-fed reservoir during summer, perfect for a refreshing dip post-hike.
- Visit the interpretive center inside author Frederick Manfred’s historic home to learn about the landscape and its stories.
- See a herd of American bison grazing across restored prairie land—an iconic and protected symbol of the region.
Distance from Sioux Falls, SD:
About a 45-minute drive east via I-90 and MN-23.How to Get to Blue Mounds State Park:
From Luverne, head north on US-75, then turn west onto 161st Street. Follow signs to the park entrance at 1410 161st St.3. Cascade River State Park - a 15-minute drive from Grand Marais
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Location:
Lutsen, MNHighlights:
If rugged shorelines, forested trails, and cascading waterfalls sound like your kind of adventure, Cascade River State Park delivers. Tucked along Lake Superior’s North Shore, it’s a wild and photogenic escape filled with natural wonder.Recommended For:
Hikers, photographers, campers, nature lovers, and families looking for a peaceful slice of Minnesota’s North Shore beauty.What I Love: ♥
Waterfalls you can dip your toes into, riverside hikes, cedar-shaded picnic areas, and diverse wildlife along rocky Lake Superior terrain.- Hike through rocky, forested trails with constant views of waterfalls, cliffs, and rushing water along the Cascade River.
- Fish in the river or nearby Lake Superior—trout and salmon are popular catches in this scenic area.
- Camp in forested surroundings, with several sites that feel totally immersed in nature.
- Picnic at one of seven sites, including a particularly beautiful cedar grove that's a must-visit for peaceful views.
Distance from Grand Marais:
About a 15-minute drive southwest on MN-61.How to Get to Cascade River State Park:
From Grand Marais, drive southwest on Minnesota Highway 61 for approximately 10 miles. The park entrance is located at 3481 MN-61, just before reaching Lutsen.4. Frontenac State Park
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Location:
Frontenac, MNHighlights:
If you're into scenic river views, seasonal bird migrations, and year-round outdoor fun, Frontenac State Park is a standout. Set above Lake Pepin, it's a peaceful, activity-rich escape with trails, wildlife, and water access.Recommended For:
Bird watchers, hikers, snow sports enthusiasts, campers, and families looking for a relaxing outdoor getaway in southern Minnesota.What I Love: ♥
Lake Pepin vistas, migratory birdwatching, multi-season trails, and diverse fishing and sledding opportunities across the park.- Hike looping trails through forested bluffs and prairies—many convert to groomed paths for skiing and snowmobiling in winter.
- Watch birds from scenic overlooks or along wooded trails—Frontenac is a hotspot for both residential and migratory species.
- Camp in well-equipped sites, and enjoy a mix of family-friendly recreation like swimming and sledding during seasonal months.
- Fish in Lake Pepin for northern pike, catfish, bluegill, and crappie—perfect for anglers of all skill levels.
Distance from Red Wing:
About a 20-minute drive southeast via US-61 and County 2 Blvd.How to Get to Frontenac State Park:
From Red Wing, take US-61 south to County Road 2. Head east and follow signs to the park entrance at 29223 County 28 Blvd, just outside the town of Frontenac.Romantic Minnesota State Parks:
5. Glacial Lakes State Park
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Location:
Starbuck, MNHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to walk through rolling prairies under wide skies, Glacial Lakes State Park is a magical spot. With glacial landforms, serene lakes, and some of the darkest skies in the region, it’s a quiet retreat for all seasons.Recommended For:
Stargazers, prairie hikers, winter adventurers, birders, and anyone who wants to experience untouched Minnesota landscapes.What I Love: ♥
Rare prairie ecosystems, low light pollution for stargazing, a wide variety of outdoor activities, and the tranquil vibe of the Leaf Mountains region.- Hike and explore glacial ridges and native prairies on quiet trails through woodlands and open grasslands.
- Swim, boat, or fish in the calm lake waters—great for summer fun in a serene setting.
- Snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile during the winter months—the park is a peaceful cold-weather playground.
- Stargaze under some of Minnesota’s clearest skies—thanks to its remote location with minimal light pollution.
Distance from Alexandria:
About a 35-minute drive southwest via MN-29 and County Road 41.How to Get to Glacial Lakes State Park:
From Alexandria, take MN-29 south to Starbuck. Turn west on County Road 41 and continue to the park entrance at 25022 Co Rd 41.6. Gooseberry Falls State Park
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Location:
Two Harbors, MNHighlights:
If thundering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and rich regional history are on your list, Gooseberry Falls State Park is a North Shore must. It’s a year-round destination packed with trails, waterfalls, and a top-notch visitor center to kick off your adventure.Recommended For:
Hikers, campers, cyclists, history lovers, and anyone exploring Minnesota’s North Shore along scenic MN-61.What I Love: ♥
Multiple tiers of stunning waterfalls, educational exhibits at the visitor center, and year-round camping with direct trail access to the Superior Hiking Trail.- Start your visit at the Joseph N. Alexander Visitor Center to explore interpretive exhibits, a theater, and a local gift shop.
- Hike 18 miles of scenic trails, or bike 8 miles of mountain paths that link up with the iconic Superior Hiking Trail.
- Camp at one of 70 year-round non-electric sites—ideal for those who want to sleep near the falls and wake to rushing water.
- Explore the preserved natural beauty of Gooseberry River’s waterfalls and rocky shoreline views of Lake Superior.
Distance from Duluth:
About a 45-minute drive northeast along MN-61.How to Get to Gooseberry Falls State Park:
From Duluth, take MN-61 North toward Two Harbors. The park entrance is located at 3206 MN-61, just north of the town and clearly marked with signs.7. Grand Portage State Park
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Location:
Grand Portage, MNHighlights:
If you’re looking for cultural heritage, easy access to stunning waterfalls, and a northern wilderness experience, Grand Portage State Park has it all. Sitting right at the Canadian border, this park is jointly managed with the Grand Portage Band of Ojibwe, making it one of the most unique parks in the country.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, cultural travelers, accessibility-focused visitors, waterfall chasers, and those interested in Native American history and partnerships.What I Love: ♥
The wheelchair-accessible trail to High Falls, collaborative park management with the Grand Portage Ojibwe, and the chance to learn about native traditions and stunning Northwoods ecology.- Visit High Falls—the tallest waterfall in Minnesota—via a fully accessible paved path and boardwalk with scenic overlooks.
- Hike to Middle Falls or explore forested trails to get close to the natural beauty of this northern borderland park.
- Learn about Ojibwe history and stewardship by visiting interpretive displays, the adjacent monument, or traditional gardens.
- Observe diverse flora and fauna in one of Minnesota’s most biodiverse regions, including boreal forest wildlife and native plant species.
Distance from Grand Marais:
About a 45-minute drive northeast via MN-61.How to Get to Grand Portage State Park:
Take MN-61 north from Grand Marais all the way to the Canadian border. The park entrance is located at 9393 MN-61, just before the Port of Entry, and is clearly marked.Family-friendly Minnesota State Parks:
8. Interstate State Park
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Location:
Taylors Falls, MNHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to peer into the Earth’s past, Interstate State Park’s glacial potholes are a must-see. With riverfront views, hiking trails, and the world’s deepest explored pothole, this park is both beautiful and geologically fascinating.Recommended For:
Geology enthusiasts, hikers, families, rock climbers, paddlers, and anyone who loves a hands-on natural history adventure.What I Love: ♥
The famous Glacial Potholes Area, scenic canoeing on the St. Croix River, rock climbing routes, and panoramic views along the gorge.- Start at the visitor center for maps, exhibits, and a great introduction to the area’s unique geology and natural history.
- Explore the Glacial Potholes Area, where you can view and climb around potholes of all sizes—including the world’s deepest explored glacial pothole.
- Hike trails along the river gorge, or climb among ancient basalt cliffs formed over a billion years ago.
- Canoe, camp, or fish on the St. Croix River, with easy access to the water and a peaceful setting for overnight stays.
Distance from Minneapolis:
About a 1-hour drive northeast via I-35 and US-8.How to Get to Interstate State Park:
From Minneapolis, take I-35 N to Forest Lake, then head east on US-8 toward Taylors Falls. The park entrance is located at 307 Milltown Ct., just before crossing into Wisconsin.9. Itasca State Park
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Location:
Park Rapids, MNHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to stand at the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi, Itasca State Park is the place to start. With rich history, interpretive centers, and lush trails, it’s the perfect blend of nature and legacy.Recommended For:
History lovers, families, hikers, anglers, campers, and anyone seeking to experience the birthplace of the Mississippi River.What I Love: ♥
Historic sites, the Mississippi Headwaters, two top-notch visitor centers, and hearty fare at the on-site Headwaters Café.- Begin at the Jacob B. Brower Visitor Center to learn about the park’s origin and evolution through thoughtful exhibits and displays.
- Visit the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center for outdoor interpretive exhibits and a firsthand view of where the river begins.
- Hike, fish, and camp among diverse ecosystems including old-growth pine forests, scenic lakes, and peaceful riverbanks.
- Refuel at Headwaters Café with a warm meal or cold drink after a day of discovery on the trails or at the historic sites.
Distance from Bemidji:
About a 45-minute drive southwest via US-71 S and MN-200 W.How to Get to Itasca State Park:
From Bemidji, take US-71 S, then head west on MN-200 W. Follow signs to 36750 Main Park Drive for the main entrance and visitor centers.10. Jay Cooke State Park
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Location:
Carlton, MNHighlights:
If you love history, riverside views, and a little sway in your step, Jay Cooke State Park is a must. From its famous Swinging Bridge to panoramic overlooks and historic CCC structures, it’s packed with memorable experiences.Recommended For:
Hikers, history buffs, photographers, families, and anyone who enjoys iconic views and Civilian Conservation Corps landmarks.What I Love: ♥
The swinging suspension bridge, sweeping views from Oldenburg Point, and the blend of natural beauty with historic charm.- Cross the iconic Swinging Bridge that spans the St. Louis River—it’s a fun and scenic park tradition.
- Hike up to Oldenburg Point for one of the best panoramic views in Minnesota, with river and valley vistas.
- Discover historic CCC-built structures along your hike, each telling part of the park’s Great Depression-era story.
- Visit the quiet Pioneer Cemetery and explore the Thomson Dam area to round out your park experience.
Distance from Duluth:
About a 25-minute drive southwest via I-35 and MN-210 W.How to Get to Jay Cooke State Park:
Take I-35 S from Duluth to the Carlton exit. Head west on MN-210 and follow signs to the park entrance at 780 Highway 210.Plan Your Trip