Here in Minnesota, the North Shore gets all the attention. And when it’s not the North Shore, it’s the Boundary Waters, national forests, and other northern attractions. But there’s a whole other part of Minnesota that isn’t getting the attention it deserves. It may not be full of rugged shores and thick forests, but southern Minnesota has a beauty distinct from that of the northern half of the state. That’s especially apparent in the region’s state parks. One in particular, Kilen Woods State Park, has a quiet beauty all its own. Here’s what you need to know about this beautiful state park:

Kilen Woods State Park is in southern Minnesota, just a few miles north of the Iowa border. It's about 160 miles - a 2.5-hour drive - southwest of the Twin Cities.
Justin B/TripAdvisor
When you arrive at the park, it will at first seem like a vast, empty prairie. The park covers 548 acres, and much of it is grasslands.
Stacy K/TripAdvisor
But look beyond the grass, and you'll see a landscape of rolling hills populated not only with grass, but with other beautiful plant and animal life.
VagabondCher/TripAdvisor
Look closely, and you'll spot some tiny critters. Frogs, insects, squirrels, and birds are abundant here.
rweintothewoodsyet/TripAdvisor

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As for plant life, many flowers bloom in the park. These include big bluestem, blazing-star, and purple coneheads - to name a few. Make a trip during the warmer months to see them thrive.
rweintothewoodsyet/TripAdvisor
Trees are also a major feature of Kilen Woods. The park's oak savannas are beautiful places to hike. Under the canopy of oak branches, it will feel like a world far removed from Minnesota.
rweintothewoodsyet/TripAdvisor
Speaking of hikes, the park has 5 miles of hiking trails. These trails, mostly unpaved, will take you on a trip through the park's hilly grounds.
Tony Webster/Flickr
One trail will take you to the Dinosaur Ridge Overlook. High above the park, you'll have a bird's-eye view of the entire park.
Stacy K/TripAdvisor
You'll even catch a glimpse of the Des Moines River, where walleyes, catfish, bullheads, and northerns are known to swim. Drop a line and wait for a bite!
Stacy K/TripAdvisor

Next time you’re craving an unusual adventure in Minnesota, head south! Kilen Woods State Park awaits with plenty of hiking, fishing, and beautiful scenery. And if you’re looking for more off-the-beaten-path places in Minnesota, check out our list of 11 lesser known state parks in Minnesota.

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Kilen Woods State Park, 860th Street, Lakefield, MN, USA