As the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota is home to some great lakeside beaches. Among the most popular spots are Park Point in Duluth and beaches throughout the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis. But you don’t have to go to a lake to find a great, sandy beach. There are some great beaches along Minnesota’s rivers as well! One of our favorites is found at Afton State Park near Hastings, Minnesota. There, a short hike through the woods will take you to a wide, sand-covered beach along the St. Croix River. Read on below to learn more.

Afton State Park is a beautiful state park in Hastings, Minnesota. It covers around 1,600 acres along the St. Croix River, making it a wonderful destination for nature and recreation.
Nick Preese/Google
The park is full of hiking trails - 20 miles of them, to be exact. There are also paved bike trails and even horse trails. This is truly a park that just about everyone can enjoy.
Taylor Passofaro/Google
Some trails take you through a tree-filled forest, where wildflowers sprout from the tall grasses. Many bird species have been spotted here, as well as deer, foxes, and more.
Jeri Rasmussen/Google

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One of the park's trails in particular is well worth the hike. It's an easy 1/2-mile walk from the parking area...
Jeri Rasmussen/Google
...and it's well worth the effort. The big beach overlooking the St. Croix River has plenty of space to spread out a blanket and sunbathe.
Ryan Choi/Google
On any given day, you may spot boats passing by, making for a lovely summer scene. The view of Wisconsin, across the river, is also beautiful.
Tuponken/Google
But of course, one of the most popular things to do at the beach is swim! Because the beach is so wide, there's plenty of space to spread out. There's no better way to cool off on a hot Minnesota day!
Matt Guthrie/Google

Have you ever been to Afton State Park? Let us know your favorite part in the comments below! And if you’re interested in other great Minnesota state park beaches, check out our article about the remote beach at Zippel Bay State Park.

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Afton State Park, Peller Avenue South, Hastings, MN, USA