The mighty Mississippi River begins its more than 2,500-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico as a trickling stream in northern Minnesota. Nine state parks line the banks of the river as it winds its way through the state, providing a variety of camping experiences and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you're on the meandering water, or exploring the bluffs and banks via numerous trails, the state parks along Minnesota's Mississippi River can provide plenty of physical outdoor pursuits.
Mississippi Headwaters
The river's journey begins in Itasca, Minnesota's oldest state park. Visitors can walk across the rocky creek where the Mississippi begins its flow toward the Gulf of Mexico. Nearly 50 miles of hiking trails and 16 miles of paved biking trails travel through the 36,000-acre park that also contains nearly 100 remote lakes that can be explored by canoe. Thirty miles to the north, Bemidji holds the distinction of being the first town along the river's waters as it flows through Lake Bemidji and Lake Bemidji State Park. Miles of hiking, mountain biking and cycling trails wind through the park, and a large sandy beach lines the shore of the large lake.
Upper Mississippi
The upper section of the Mississippi River can be a wild, serene setting, as its narrow waters wind through undeveloped shores before hitting the locks and dams from the Twin Cities and beyond. Giant white pines, hundreds of years old, stand tall along the quiet riverbanks of Schoolcraft State Park in northern Minnesota. The waters remain slow and meandering at Crow Wing State Park in central Minnesota where the Crow Wing River joins the Mississippi on its journey. Charles A. Lindbergh State Park, approximately 40 miles downstream from Crow Wing, offers canoeing on the scenic Pike Creek as well as the Mississippi River. Hiking and biking trails run throughout all three state parks in the heavily forested upper Mississippi region.
Twin Cities Metropolitan Area
Only one state park is located along an approximate 200-mile stretch of river as it transitions from the intimate wilds of the north and central portions of the state to the expansive bluff country of the south. Fort Snelling State Park stands sentry where the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers converge. The park is a recreational oasis in the heart of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area and offers miles of hiking and biking trails. Swimming, canoeing and kayaking also lure visitors seeking a respite from the urban jungle that surrounds the park.
Southeastern Bluff Country
Towering bluffs, labyrinthine backwaters and sprawling valleys are the trademark of the Mississippi River as it passes through southern Minnesota along the Wisconsin border. Frontenac State Park, high above the 25,000-acre Lake Pepin in Red Wing, provides sweeping vistas of the valley and 15 miles of hiking trails along the river bluffs. More stunning views await downstream at John A. Latsch and Great River Bluffs State Parks. Both parks feature bluff-top views and river-bottom trails.
Considerations
Entrance and/or camping fees are required to enter Minnesota state parks. Annual passes are available from any park office and are valid for one calendar year from date of purchase. Camping at most state parks is considered semi-modern. Running water may be shut off beginning in October through April. Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive days at a campsite before moving.
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