William O'Brien State Park

Animals we've Seen

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Camping
Canoeing
Educational Programs
Geological Interest
Hiking
Fishing
Restored Prairie

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MN DNR: William O'Brien State Park

barred owl in William O'Brien state park

River Trail | William O'Brien State Park, MN | View enlarged image

Out of all the parks we've ever been to, William O'Brien State Park was definitely one of the most impressive. Every time we've visited it, it's seemed like we spotted a new species. The landscape is beautiful, the hiking trails are rugged yet well maintained, the park is almost never crowded, and the wildlife is plentiful. The trails are clearly marked and well planned, and there's a map at every crossroad. Even though it's within an hour's drive of most of the major Minneapolis-St. Paul suburbs, the park is far enough away from the cities that noise pollution from airports and highways isn't really an issue.

William O'Brien's prairie restoration projects are really worth the hike. It's hard to believe that just a few centuries ago, our state was almost entirely covered in these sunny grasslands. Prairie restoration projects throughout Minnesota have played a major role in bringing back many of our state's native grassland species, including the once elusive Eastern Bluebird. We counted at least twelve Eastern Bluebirds during our visit in May of 2003. Trout Brook runs through the center of the park, and is a great place to spot migratory songbirds, tadpoles, and other wildlife. You'll also want to check out the hills along the Northern border of the park. The combination of tall trees and adjacent prairie and river provide an ideal habitat for Minnesota's migratory raptors, including Hawks, Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles.

If you're planning to hike William O'Brien, you'll definitely want to wear comfortable shoes with good treads, and a combination of bug repellent and dark clothing to throw off the mosquitos. Also, suntan lotion and a bottle of water aren't a bad idea if you're planning to hike across the restored prairie. Though can spot unique plants and wildlife five minutes from the parking lot, you'll want to spend at least three hours on the trails to see all that William O'Brien has to offer.

Directions:

Address:16821 O'Brien Trail North Marine-on-St. Croix, MN 55047

From 694, take 36 East. Take a left on hwy 15 (Manning Ave) and make a right on 96. Head North up highway 95. Just after Marine on St. Croix, (about 12 miles) you will see signs for William O'Brien State Park. The turn-in will be on your left.

Distance from Saint Paul, MN: 37 Miles

View Map

Park Maps

For park info, wildlife sightings, or camping reservations, contact the park office at: (651) 433-0500

Regulations:

Minnesota State Park Sticker required to enter park. No alcohol. Dogs on must be on leashed, and on paved trails only.

Multimedia:


Tooth Fungus \| William O'Brien State Park, MN	Marsh Marigold \| William O'Brien State Park, MN	Lilypad \| Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund \| William O'Brien State Park, MN

Ladybug crossing Glacial Deposit Boulder \| William O'Brien State Park, MN	Plants growing in seasonal brook \| William O'Brien State Park, MN	Glacial Deposit Boulder \| William O'Brien State Park, MN

Quaking Aspens \| Photo Credit: Robert Wicklund \| William O'Brien State Park, MN	River Trail Map \| William O'Brien State Park, MN

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