Afton State Park
"Stillwater is very close, so visitors often pair the park with a day in the historic river town. Afton is a natural complement to sightseeing, dining, and river recreation."
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
"Visitors from Stillwater often come for a quick river escape, camping, and paddling on the St. Croix. The park offers a quieter natural contrast to the historic downtown and riverfront attractions."
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.
St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area
"Stillwater is a natural gateway to the St. Croix River and a convenient starting point for exploring the area. Visitors from here often come for boating, fishing, and scenic river scenery."
St. Croix Islands State Recreation Area features a string of islands and shoreline along the lower St. Croix River, offering a peaceful setting for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Its undeveloped character makes it a favorite for visitors seeking a quiet river experience close to the Twin Cities.
Interstate State Park
"Stillwater visitors often combine a park visit with a scenic drive along the St. Croix corridor. The park's geology and overlooks make it a natural extension of a river-town trip."
Interstate State Park is one of Minnesota's most geologically distinctive parks, featuring the famous Dalles of the St. Croix and deep glacial potholes carved into ancient rock. Its river overlooks, picnic areas, and easy access from the Twin Cities make it a popular day-trip destination.
Kinnickinnic State Park
"Stillwater residents can reach the park easily for a half-day drive into western Wisconsin. The park offers a more secluded alternative to riverfront recreation in town."
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.
Wild River State Park
"Stillwater travelers often combine a visit to the park with a St. Croix River corridor outing. The park offers a quieter complement to the historic river town."
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.