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Interstate State Park

River Trail | Interstate State Park | View Enlarged Image

The first federal park to encompass two states, Interstate State Park is situated along the Dells of the Saint Croix River near Taylor's Falls (on the MN side). The park was founded in 1895 in order to preserve the region from mining interests. It features a number of unique geological features that help to tell the story of the land, including hardened lava flows from volcanoes that were active in the area over one billion years ago, and deposits from glaciers that shaped the landscape. These conflicting forces resulted in the potholes, dalles and bluffs that punctuate the region. The trails are also great places to watch and listen for owls, hawks, migratory songbirds, shorebirds, and all kinds of mammals, so bring your binoculars.

The River Trail begins to the north end of the park, though there is a rough hiking path that runs along the forested edge of the river south of the campgrounds. The River Trail can be quite a hike, so you may want to bring along a bottle of water and an apple or two.

The facilities at Interstate leave little to be desired. There is camping, hiking, picnicking, fishing, and rock climbing. You will want to be warned that Interstate tends to be more crowded most days than state parks like Afton or Frontenac, and you won't want to leave any valuables in your car, as the parking lots are frequented by thieves.

Directions:

(From St. Paul) Take Interstate 35E North. About 5 miles after it becomes Interstate 35. Head right (East) on US 8. Follow US 8 for about 21 miles, and follow the brown federal park signs.

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Distance from St. Paul, MN: Approximately 47 miles

For questions or advance camping reservations, call the park office at: (651) 465-5711

Regulations:

Multimedia:

Cottontail Rabbit | Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund | Interstate State Park Indian Mound | Interstate State Park White Gentian | Interstate State Park Picnic Shelter | Interstate State Park Taylor's Falls Queen | Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund | Interstate State Park Taylor's Falls Queen | Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund | Interstate State Park     River Trail Map | Interstate State Park

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