Afton State Park
"Saint Paul is close enough for spontaneous visits and family outings. Many residents head here for scenic overlooks and a natural setting along the St. Croix River."
Afton State Park offers some of the best bluff-top scenery in the Twin Cities region, with sweeping views of the St. Croix River valley. Its mix of prairie, forest, and river access makes it popular for hiking, birding, camping, and cross-country skiing.
William O'Brien State Park
"Saint Paul visitors often head here for a nearby state park experience with paddling and scenic bluffs. It is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a day trip."
William O'Brien State Park features riverfront scenery, diverse habitats, and easy access to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. It is especially popular for canoeing, kayaking, camping, fishing, and observing migratory birds and other wildlife.
Wild River State Park
"Saint Paul residents can reach the park in under an hour for hiking, birding, and family camping. The park offers a convenient getaway from city life."
Wild River State Park spans more than 18,000 acres along the St. Croix River, offering a mix of river bluffs, hardwood forests, prairie openings, and wetlands. It is one of Minnesota’s best places for canoeing, birding, and year-round outdoor recreation close to the metro area.
Lake Maria State Park
"Saint Paul residents often visit for weekend camping and scenic hikes. The park’s natural setting provides a refreshing break from urban life."
Lake Maria State Park offers a secluded landscape of hardwood forest, lakes, and marshes with excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. It is especially valued for its old-growth forest remnants and spring wildflowers.
Kinnickinnic State Park
"Saint Paul visitors often choose the park for a close-to-home escape into Wisconsin’s bluff country. It is popular for day trips centered on hiking, picnicking, and trout fishing."
Kinnickinnic State Park features the clear, spring-fed Kinnickinnic River, wooded ravines, and rolling bluff country near River Falls. It is especially popular for trout fishing, birdwatching, and low-key outdoor recreation in a quiet natural setting.