Buffalo River State Park
Buffalo River State Park protects a rare remnant of native tallgrass prairie along the Buffalo River in western Minnesota. Visitors come for birdwatching, hiking, swimming, and the peaceful prairie landscape, with easy access to the river and a popular family beach area.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed on leash up to 6 feet in day-use areas and trails; not allowed in buildings or swimming areas.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Praised for peaceful prairie scenery, easy trails, birdwatching, wildflowers, and family-friendly camping. Visitors love the quiet, open landscapes and relaxing nature experience, especially in summer and fall.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring insect repellent for summer visits and wetland trails.
- Wear sturdy shoes; prairie paths can be uneven or muddy.
- Check trail conditions after rain before heading out.
- Carry water, especially on hot, windy prairie days.
- Use binoculars for birdwatching in the marsh and grasslands.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Buffalo River State Park is late spring through early fall, when the prairie is green, birds are active, and the swimming area is open. Summer offers the fullest range of activities, while September brings cooler weather and excellent wildlife viewing.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Buffalo River State Park:
- Buffalo RiverA scenic river corridor that supports fishing, wildlife viewing, and quiet paddling opportunities near the park.0.5 miles away
- Hawley Golf ClubA local golf course in nearby Hawley that pairs well with a park visit for a relaxed day in the area.6 miles away
- Fargo-Moorhead Metro AreaA major regional hub with dining, shopping, and cultural attractions that makes the park an easy nature getaway from the city.25 miles away
Things to Do at Buffalo River State Park
Camping at Buffalo River State Park
Buffalo River State Park offers seasonal camping with tent and RV sites, electric hookups, restrooms, showers, fire rings, and reservations.
Hiking Trails
Buffalo River State Park offers easy, scenic day hiking through wide prairie, wetlands, and river views. Trails are generally flat and well maintained, making them great for families, casual hikers, and birdwatchers. Visitors often enjoy the peaceful open landscape, wildflowers in season, and abundant wildlife. It’s a good choice for a relaxed walk rather than a strenuous hike.
Prairie View Trail
EasyA scenic loop through native tallgrass prairie with wide-open views and abundant wildflowers in season.
River Trail
EasyA gentle trail following the Buffalo River corridor, offering riparian scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
Prairie Loop Trail
EasyA longer loop showcasing the park's restored prairie landscape, ideal for a relaxed hike and nature observation.
Connector Trail to Interpretive Areas
EasyA short, accessible route linking key park features and interpretive stops, good for a quick walk.
Directions
From I-94, take MN-210 west to Hawley, then follow County Road 10 south and park signs to the entrance. The park is about 25 miles east of Fargo-Moorhead and easy to reach by car.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Buffalo River State Park?
Visitors often come for hiking, birdwatching, swimming in the summer, and cross-country skiing in winter. The prairie trails are especially popular for their wide-open views and wildlife sightings.
Is Buffalo River State Park good for families with kids?
Yes. Many visitors say it’s a good family park because the trails are easy to moderate, the swimming area is popular in warm weather, and the open prairie gives kids plenty to explore.
Are there good hiking trails at Buffalo River State Park?
Yes. Reviews often mention the trails as scenic and peaceful, with a mix of prairie and river views. They’re generally considered easy to moderate and are well-liked for short day hikes.
Can you swim at Buffalo River State Park?
Yes, there is a swimming area that many summer visitors enjoy. Reviews often note that it’s a nice place to cool off after hiking, though conditions can vary depending on weather and water levels.
What wildlife might I see at Buffalo River State Park?
Birdwatchers often report seeing prairie birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife common to wetlands and grasslands. Deer and small mammals are also sometimes spotted, especially on quieter trails.
Is Buffalo River State Park worth visiting in winter?
Yes, many visitors enjoy it for cross-country skiing and quiet winter scenery. Reviews often describe it as peaceful and less crowded, making it a good spot for a calm cold-weather outing.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →