The area around Taylors Falls, Minnesota, offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities centered on the St. Croix River. Canoeing, kayaking and hiking offer you a great chance to explore the area. When you’re ready to relax and rejuvenate, several campgrounds offer both RV and tent campers a place to rest for the night.
Location
Located about an hour from Minneapolis-St. Paul, Taylors Falls sits at the junction of Highways 8 and 87. The small town is located on the west bank of the St. Croix River. The river acts as the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Private Campgrounds
Wildwood RV Park & Campground offers both RV and tent campers a place to set up camp. For RVers, pull-through sites with water, sewer and electric hook-ups are available. Or you can choose a wooded site with just water and electricity. Sites with no hookups are also available for tent camping. Campground amenities include a free showers and flush toilets. For recreation, enjoy a swim in the seasonal heated pool or play a round on the 18-hole miniature golf course. Basketball and volleyball courts as well as horseshoe pits are also available. If you plan to canoe on the St. Croix River, you can take advantage of the campground’s free shuttle service to Taylors Falls Canoe and Kayak Rental.
State Park Camping
For close access to a variety of outdoor activities, consider camping at Interstate State Park. Located on the St. Croix River, you can canoe the gentle waters or kayak the rapids. Or, climb the cliffs at the St. Croix River Dalles. Hiking trails take you through the forest and along the river. The campground offers a variety of campsites, including some for RVers who need electricity and tent sites without hookups. Amenities include showers, flush toilets and a dump station. You can borrow volleyball equipment from the park office and set up a game in the picnic area. Or, take advantage of the park’s climbing opportunities. Make sure to pick up a free climbing permit from the visitor center before you head out.
Activities
To experience the St. Croix River and all it offers, take a canoe or kayak along the scenic waterway to the Osceola Landing or William O’Brien State Park. You can rent equipment from the Taylors Falls Canoe and Kayak Rental. It also offers one-way trips so you can take the shuttle back to your car. Hikers will find several short trails at Interstate State Park along with a self-guided 1-mile hike along Sandstone Bluffs Trail. Or you can try the 2-mile River Trail as it meanders along the St. Croix River.
Preparation
A lightweight jacket comes in handy on cooler summer nights. Insect repellent should help keep the mosquitoes at bay. Groceries and camping goods are available in Taylors Falls. If you want to build a fire at the campground, Minnesota state law requires that you purchase your wood locally at approved vendors.
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