“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:
Bear Head Lake State Park - a 25-minute drive from Ely - Paddle quiet waters and explore forest trails on a peaceful retirement trip.
Blue Mounds State Park - a 45-minute drive from Sioux Falls - Hike prairie trails and look at bison herds on an unusual adventure.
Cascade River State Park - a 15-minute drive from Grand Marais - Walk along rushing falls and enjoy scenic sights on a fall weekend.
Frontenac State Park - Admire river bluffs and spot migrating birds on a spring family trip.
Glacial Lakes State Park - Discover rolling hills and savor summer lake views on an easy trip.
Gooseberry Falls State Park - See dramatic waterfalls and walk stone paths on an exciting outing with kids.
Grand Portage State Park - Visit Minnesota’s tallest waterfall and enjoy quick roadside attractions on a summer drive.
Interstate State Park - Climb rock formations and explore glacial potholes on a cheap weekend escape.
Itasca State Park - Walk across the Mississippi headwaters and explore iconic sights on a family trip.
Jay Cooke State Park - Hike swinging bridges and admire rugged river views on a romantic fall adventure.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Bear Head Lake State Park - a 25-minute drive from Ely
- • Blue Mounds State Park - a 45-minute drive from Sioux Falls
- • Cascade River State Park - a 15-minute drive from Grand Marais
- • Frontenac State Park
- • Glacial Lakes State Park
- • Gooseberry Falls State Park
- • Grand Portage State Park
- • Interstate State Park
- • Itasca State Park
- • Jay Cooke State Park