Explore Minnesota’s state parks and state recreation areas with this all-in-one guide. When you consider a visit to Minnesota’s state parks, you might imagine hiking, bicycling, camping, fishing, swimming, bird-watching, or simply relaxing beside a babbling river. Of course, you’re right. The beautiful parks are perfect escapes for your favorite outdoor activities—but there’s so much more to do. Minnesota’s state parks offer a multitude of unique experiences and new adventures! Discover them all in Minnesota State Parks by Anne Arthur and debut author Signy Sherman. Wade across the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park. Explore an open mine pit at Hill Annex Mine State Park or an underground mine at Lake Vermillion-Sudan Underground Mine State Park. Immerse yourself in history at Fort Snelling State Park or Fort Ridgely State Park. See the bison herd at Blue Mounds State Park. Tour the cave at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. You’ll also have opportunities to try everything from archery to snowshoeing, stay in a cabin or yurt, or even go scuba-diving (if you have the training and equipment). This comprehensive guide spotlights all 75 state parks and state recreation areas in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Each entry includes full-color photography, a map, and the details you want to know—including a park overview and descriptions of the trails, campgrounds, and interpretive programs. Plus, the authors’ tips help to ensure that you maximize the fun. Inside you’ll find Guide to all 75 state parks and state recreation areas - Maps that show hiking and biking trails at a glance - Expert tips from the authors - Nearby attractions that help you make the most of your vacation, road trip, or weekend getaway Get outside and connect with nature. It’s as easy as finding a nearby state park. Use Minnesota State Parks to choose the destinations that are right for you, or begin your journey to visit them all! Anne Arthur is a Minnesota resident and an avid traveler. She cherishes the outdoors and greatly enjoys visiting state parks and national parks across the country. She has been to every Minnesota state park and recreation area multiple times, and she hopes to visit every national park too. Signy Sherman is the daughter of Anne Arthur. She is a teacher and a lifelong lover of nature and history. Minnesota State Parks is her debut book. Afton State Park (est. 1969) 6959 Peller Ave S, Hastings, 55033, (651) 436-5391 Located 9 miles east of St. Paul. Take Interstate 94 to County Road 95, then head south for 7 miles to County Road 20, then go east for 3 miles. Description: The park, located just east of the Twin Cities, encompasses over 1,600 acres of land along the St. Croix River. The park’s many trails cover miles of prairie and forested ravines. Some of the trails are quite rugged, providing a challenging place to hike or cross-country ski. Why You Should Go: Afton is a wilderness area that is easy to access and a great way to escape the crowded city. After just a short drive from the Twin Cities, you can enjoy backpacking to a secluded campsite. Trails: There are 20 miles of hiking trails at the park. There is also a short self-guided interpretive trail and a trail accessible for those with disabilities; both trails are less than a mile long. There are 5 miles of equestrian trails and 4 miles of biking trails. In winter, there are groomed cross-country ski trails. Snowshoers can make use of the 7 miles of groomed trails or can wander anywhere else in the park except the cross-country skiing trails. The park also maintains winter hiking trails. Recreation: Fishing is popular on the St. Croix River, and there is a fishing pier at the park, but public boat launches are located outside of the park. The park has two picnic areas. One is located on higher ground near the visitor center and the other is along the river near the beach. There are three open picnic shelters. Volleyball and horseshoes are also available at the park. Geocaching is available, and you can bring your own GPS or borrow one from the park. If time permits, staff members will offer tips. The park also loans out fishing, birding and kids’ discovery kits and participates in the “I Can! Camp” program and Archery in the Parks. Campground: The park has 28 rustic backpack-in sites. There are no drive-in sites, but there is one canoe-in site on the St. Croix River. There are also two group sites; one is accessible by vehicle, while the other is carry-in only. There are four camper cabins and two yurts available year-round. Interpretive Programs: There are interpretive programs, but check with the park for a schedule. The visitor center also has exhibits and displays. Nearby Attractions: Afton Alps is located next to the park. In the winter, it offers downhill skiing and snow tubing. During the summer, you can enjoy golfing and mountain biking. 6600 Peller Ave S, Hastings, 55033, (651) 436-5245. St. Croix Bl