 July 2025
Advanced Guide to State Parks and Trails
Once you’ve found your footing in the outdoors, it’s only natural to wonder 'what’s next?!' This month, we’re diving into the kinds of adventures that push your boundaries and bring you deeper into Minnesota’s wild places. These experiences often take more preparation—and sometimes a little courage—but they come with big rewards: solitude, adrenaline, perspective, and the satisfaction of trying something new.
If you’re still getting started with outdoor recreation, no worries. We’ve got you covered with our Beginner’s Guide—a great place to build confidence before taking the next step.
 Adventure Smart ⚠️
Your safety is your responsibility.
Before attempting advanced activities, make sure you're properly trained, equipped, and informed. These activities are not recommended for beginners without preparation. When in doubt, start small, build your confidence, and always prioritize safety. Check out the on-ramp options for ideas on how to get started safely.
 Backcountry Campsites 🏕️
Remote camping offers solitude and challenge.
 📷: Cart-in campsite at Beaver Creek Valley State Park
If you’re looking to unplug and get a little farther from the crowds, backcountry camping might be for you. A handful of Minnesota state parks and recreation areas offer backcountry campsites—ideal for solitude seekers who don’t mind trading convenience for peace and quiet. Backcountry sites generally fall into two categories:
Walk-in and Cart-in Campsites
These sites are located within a half-mile of a parking area—some just a few hundred feet away from parking. Cart-in sites even provide wheeled carts to help carry your gear. These options offer a backcountry feel without a strenuous trek.
Hike-in or Backpack Campsites
For a more remote experience, consider a hike-in site. These require walking more than half a mile from your vehicle, sometimes much farther. You’ll need to carry everything with you, so pack light and focus on the essentials. It’s all about striking a balance between comfort and what you can realistically haul.
Cell service is often limited at backcountry campsites, so it’s important to plan ahead. Download the park’s GeoPDF map to your phone or bring a paper copy, let someone know your itinerary, and pack extra food, water, and first aid supplies—just in case. Whether you’re hoping to test your skills or simply enjoy some solitude, backcountry camping offers a meaningful way to connect with nature. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready for whatever the wilderness brings.
On-Ramp Option
The first step to more rustic and remote camping options is taking your site off grid. While still near campground amenities like flush bathrooms and showers, non-electric sites will challenge you to connect with nature during your stay.
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Mountain Biking 🚵
From rugged to scenic, there's a mountain biking option for every kind of rider.
 📷: Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
Minnesota state parks and trails offer some of the best mountain biking in the Midwest—whether you're after flowy singletrack, rocky climbs, or family-friendly loops. From Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area's iconic red dirt to the casual lakeside rides of Myre-Big Island State Park, there’s a ride for every style and skill level.
More than 15 state parks and recreation areas allow mountain biking, along with a growing network of state trails. You’ll find designated mountain bike trails at parks like Cuyuna Country, Jay Cooke, Fort Snelling, and Split Rock Lighthouse, with terrain ranging from gentle grades to technical descents. Many multi-use state trails also allow bikers on gravel or unpaved surfaces—perfect for building skills or extending your ride.
Before you ride, make sure your bike is in good condition and that you’re wearing a helmet and protective gear. Always check the trail rating and ride within your skill level—some parks offer beginner loops, while others include technical features best suited for experienced riders.
Minnesota is also expanding access to trail riding with wider, smoother paths that support adaptive bikes like handcycles and e-assist models—such as the Sagamore Unit at Cuyuna Country. Check individual park pages for details, and feel free to call ahead with access questions.
Want a deeper look into Minnesota’s mountain biking boom? The latest issue of Minnesota Conservation Volunteer magazine dives into the growing trail systems along the North Shore and the riders who bring them to life. Read the full story on their website.
On-Ramp Option
The I Can Mountain Bike! program is a great way to learn the basics of mountain biking in a safe, supportive setting. Held at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, these beginner-friendly sessions cover shifting, braking, body position, and trail etiquette—followed by a fun group ride through stunning red dirt terrain. All equipment is provided, and no mountain biking experience is required—just the ability to ride on pavement.
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Rock Climbing 🧗
Explore rugged cliffs, sweeping views, and thrilling climbs in Minnesota state parks.
 📷: Bethany McAnally, Blue Mounds State Park
Ready to reach new heights? Minnesota State Parks offer thrilling rock climbing experiences for all levels. The first step to a vertical adventure is obtaining a free state park climbing permit. Grab your one-year climbing permit at park offices or self-registration stations in climber parking lots. Just remember—you'll need a permit for each park where you plan to climb.
Outdoor climbing demands preparation, practice, and a strong commitment to safety. Before heading out, be sure you’re confident in key skills like setting anchors, belaying, and assessing routes—or take a course to build your experience. Always wear a helmet, bring your own gear (rentals aren’t available in the parks), and note that climbing chalk is not allowed at some sites. Secure your free climbing permit before you begin, and respect all route closures—they’re in place for your safety and to protect sensitive wildlife areas.
When you're ready to belay on, you can choose from a variety of state parks to climb at. In the heart of Minnesota’s prairie land, Blue Mounds State Park features rugged quartzite cliffs with panoramic views that stretch for miles. The quartzite cliffs rise approximately 100 feet from the prairie and offer 50–60-foot climbs of various difficulty. It’s a scenic spot to test your skills against sturdy rock faces. There are also a number of bouldering opportunities.
Check out more state parks with climbing options and view maps of their climbing areas on our website.
On-Ramp Activity
Not all climbs need ropes. Challenge yourself to new heights while exploring the steep inclines at Whitewater State Park. Coyote, Eagle, and Inspiration Points, as well as Chimney Rock Trail all offer stunning overlooks and views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. Be ready for lots of steps and stunning views at the top!
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Scuba Diving 🤿
Explore the underwater world of Minnesota state parks with scuba diving adventures.
 📷: Ryan Marshik, Madeira shipwreck at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Minnesota state parks are known for lovely scenery above the water, but what about below the surface? That’s right! No need to travel to the ocean for underwater adventure; Minnesota has its share of deep, clear lakes for exploring.
In central Minnesota, Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is home to multiple deep and clear lakes that were once mineral mine pits. Huntington Mine, Portsmouth Mine, and Morroco Mine lake all boast depths over 200 feet! The mine lakes are teeming with aquatic life including colorful rainbow trout, making them popular diving locations.
Along the North Shore, Gooseberry Falls State Park draws beginner divers to the Belle P. Cross, a ship that went down in 1902 off the Gooseberry River. And just down the shoreline, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is a beacon for divers looking for a little bit of Minnesota history—the shipwreck of the Madeira.
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park manager, Ward Wallin says he hopes more people take the opportunity to dive at this historic location. The Madeira, located off of Gold Rock Point on the northern edge of the park, is a 436-foot steel hull ship that capsized in a punishing November gale in 1905. The remains are marked by buoys at the ship’s bow and stern. The tragic sinking of the Madeira partially fueled the demand for the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse. “It’s truly a hidden gem that people don’t know about,” Wallin says. “Lake Superior is an amazing place. It’s a cool scuba opportunity, and I wish more people would utilize it.”
If you are interested in diving at a state park, go to the ranger station to leave diver information and show diver certification. At Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, the divers-only parking lot near Gold Rock Point is only accessible via a code at the ranger station. Remember, cold water, limited visibility, and underwater hazards can pose real risks—always dive with a buddy, review conditions ahead of time, and dive within your certification limits.
On-Ramp Option
Not ready to deep dive? No problem! With just a pair of goggles, you can glimpse Minnesota’s enchanting underwater world from the shoreline. Head to a state park or recreation area with a swimming beach and wade along the shallows—you might spot darting fish, swaying plants, and all kinds of hidden wonders beneath the surface.
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Watercraft Campsites 🛶
Paddle into peace and solitude at remote watercraft sites along Minnesota’s state water trails.
 📷: Rum River State Water Trail campsite
Minnesota is home to 35 state water trails and more than 4,500 miles of paddling routes. For those craving both adventure and solitude, watercraft campsites are a hidden gem. Accessible only by water, these rustic sites let you immerse yourself in nature and see miles of river views on the journey.
Watercraft campsites are available on state water trails and in some state parks. Amenities available at each site vary. Most sites feature a fire ring and vault toilet, but no electricity and generally no running water. Be prepared to treat any collected water before drinking it! Due to their remote nature, it's essential to practice low-impact camping and leave each site better than you found it. Pack out all trash and consider using a camp stove over a campfire.
Most watercraft sites on state water trails have a one-night maximum stay, so plan ahead and know where your next campsite or exit point will be. Watercraft campsites in state parks can be reserved ahead of time for multiple days.
Paddling to these sites requires knowledge of navigation, water safety, and weather awareness. Be sure to check river or lake conditions before you go, and make sure everyone in your group is comfortable on the water. Plan your trip with our Interactive Water Trail Map to locate water access points, campsites, and portages. And before you head out, always download your chosen water trail’s GeoPDF map to your phone. GeoPDFs help you avoid getting lost by showing your location even without cell service!
On-Ramp Option
Thinking about an overnight paddling trip but want to practice first? The I Can Paddle! Canoe Camping program is a great way to build your confidence. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn the basics of rustic camping, paddling, and portaging—all while spending a night in the great outdoors. It’s the perfect introduction for anyone curious about overnight water trail adventures.
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Whitewater Paddling 🌊
Dynamic river runs bring big thrills for those ready to level up.
 📷: Marie LaForce, Jay Cooke State Park
If you’re looking to explore Minnesota’s wild side, whitewater paddling might be calling your name. Minnesota state water trails offer some of the best whitewater paddling in the Midwest, with river routes ranging from gentle Class I to very challenging Class IV.
Head out to Banning State Park, and you'll find the Kettle River State Water Trail. Upper stretches of the river contain scenic wilderness, but don't let the initial calm fool you. Rapids along Banning State Park range in difficulty from Class II-IV at all water levels. However, the standout challenge lies between river miles 110–105—the legendary Kettle River rapids. Paddlers can experience a series of whitewater drops and chutes that merge with the St. Croix River downstream. Locals have deemed sections of the rapids with names like Blueberry Slide, Mother's Delight, Dragon's Tooth, and Little Banning. Blueberry Slide, found at the beginning of the rapids, is the rockiest section with Class III/III+ rapids.
In central Minnesota, another powerful set of rapids flows down the Snake River State Water Trail. Paddlers can find 13 miles of Class II-IV rapids in the northern section of the trail. Snake River Falls near the state forest has the most difficult stretch—recommended only for experienced paddlers.
Explore more whitewater routes by visiting the water trails webpage, and always check current conditions on the DNR’s River Levels page before launching. Whitewater paddling is never a solo sport—always go with a group, practice self-rescue skills, and scout any unfamiliar rapids before running them. For every trip, wear a properly fitted life jacket and helmet, plan your route in advance, and share your itinerary—including your put-in and take-out times—with someone you trust. Stay sharp, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!
On-Ramp Option
Skip the rapids but still enjoy the water! Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available at select state parks and recreation areas. Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis and include a fitted life vest. Check out the state parks and recreation areas that offer paddling rentals.
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