Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To 5 Of Minnesota's Least-Visited State Parks
By Betsy Rathburn|Published April 05, 2022
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Minnesota is home to 66 incredible state parks! If you’ve spent some time in our state, you’ve likely been to the most popular parks, such as Gooseberry Falls, Itasca, and Split Rock Lighthouse. But there are many other, lesser-known parks that are well worth exploring. Today, we want to take you on a road trip to five worthy contenders. These parks are not the most well-known. In fact, they’re among the least-visited state parks in Minnesota. But they offer up incredible beauty, interesting history, and plenty of peace and quiet. Read on below to check out where this unforgettable road trip to Minnesota’s least-visited state parks will take you.
This road trip crosses through much of southern Minnesota, passing through both St. Cloud and the Twin Cities. It covers 490 miles and takes about 8 hours total. It would be a great trip for a weekend adventure. Click here to find the full route and driving directions.
This road trip starts at Monson Lake State Park. This little-known spot is in Swift County, about 20 miles outside of Willmar. The park covers around 350 acres and is full of recreation. It is centered on Monson Lake, which is home to plenty of walleye, bass, and sunfish. Bird-watchers will enjoy searching for pelicans, herons, and other waterfowl on the lake. A fishing pier and boat ramp will give you easy access, and campsites will let you spend the night. Other great attractions include picnic areas and hiking trails with lovely lakeside views. This quiet park is sure to delight nature lovers.
Next up, head east to Lake Maria State Park. Also centered on a lake, this state park is full of peace and quiet. While the lake gives the park its name, the forest here is also notable. The park is home to some of the few remaining stands of "Big Woods," a mixed forest that used to cover much of the state. Lake Maria and Little Mary Lake offer water recreation, and plenty of trails let you hike through the woods, where you might spot some migrating birds at the wildlife observation area. Those looking for a little peace and quiet will enjoy this little-known park.
Next, our road trip turns southward for about 140 miles. But the long drive is worth it, as you'll discover when you arrive at little-known Carley State Park. Nestled along the edge of the Whitewater River, this beautiful spot offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Many enjoy fishing for trout in the river. In the spring and summer, the park is known for its wildflower blooms. Hike along its trails to spot them!
About 175 miles west of Carley State Park, you'll find Kilen Woods State Park. This park is along the Des Moines River in southern Minnesota. Many enjoy paddling along the river's Class I rapids within the park. There are five miles of hiking trails in this small park, leading to prairie views, oak savanna, and a lovely overlook. Rest at benches and picnic areas as you explore this quietly beautiful park.
This road trip ends at Upper Sioux Agency State Park. This park near Granite Falls, Minnesota, is full of both beauty and history. The. Minnesota River flows through the park, offering recreation both on and offshore, as well as plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Hiking trails lead to lovely overlooks that offer sweeping views of beautiful valleys, historic sites, and unexpected cliffs that line the Yellow Medicine River. If you'd like to stay the night, try booking a stay in one of the tipis in the park!
Have you been to any of these least-visited Minnesota state parks? Let us know which was your favorite in the comments! And if you’d like to suggest any other lesser-known attractions in Minnesota, be sure to fill out our nomination form.
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