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Old Mill
Overview
Old Mill State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty tucked away in the prairie of Northwest Minnesota. Established in 1937 to protect its cultural heritage, the park is centered around a restored steam-powered flour mill that provides a window into the region's agricultural past. RVers will find a peaceful environment where the Middle River winds through a lush, wooded valley. It is a quiet retreat that prioritizes a slower pace of life and appreciation for local heritage.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a few miles from the town of Argyle, MN, the park sits deep within the fertile Red River Valley. The terrain is characterized by expansive prairie lands that suddenly give way to a hidden, wooded oasis carved out by the winding river. This remote location offers wide-open skies and excellent opportunities for stargazing. Its proximity to the North Dakota border makes it a convenient yet secluded stop for those traveling across the northern plains.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features a well-maintained campground that includes electric hookups and several pull-through sites to accommodate modern rigs. Travelers have access to essential facilities such as a sanitary dump station, seasonal modern restrooms with flush toilets, and showers. For recreation, the park offers a unique swimming beach and a scenic suspension bridge over the river. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, allowing for a classic camping experience amidst the oak and elm trees.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the historic Larson Mill, where visitors can learn about early milling technology during special event days. Hikers can explore several miles of trails that loop through the woods and prairie, offering chances to spot white-tailed deer and diverse bird species. A short drive away, the Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge provides world-class birdwatching in a massive wetland complex. During the winter, the park remains a popular spot for snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers who prefer a quiet, rustic atmosphere over a busy resort setting. It is a perfect fit for families looking for a safe, educational environment where kids can swim and explore historic structures. Because of its remote feel, it also suits solo travelers or couples looking to unplug and enjoy the serenity of the Minnesota prairie while still having access to necessary RV conveniences.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Kathleen Fetterly
Old mill is such a lovely park. It has almost everything you could want a nice river, a nice hike, beautiful woods, interactive display awesome Stonebridge and lots of educational signs. Great amount of history and something for everyone. Lars Larson Cabin and shed- There was a tractor there and an audio demonstration of the working mill.
Naomi
The new BRIDGE! Our time at Old Mill is always relaxing. Now parents, children, teenagers can roam over the bridge to the 🧲 horseshoe range, swim in the filtered water, gather pretty rocks and aggets while looking for garter snakes. Rumor has it, the powers that be want to destroy the bathroom/shower due to an outdated water heater. Why spend all that money to make a RUSTIC campground? It truly makes no sense. We saw license plates from Canada, North Dakota, and of course, Minnesota! Please, say it's a cruel joke... Why would you do that to a northern Minnesota treasure ? Please, write your state senator (Mark Johnson) to ask just WHO made the decision and IF they've ever even camped there?! Keep OLD MILL FUNCTIONING!
Ken Palar
In the list of my favorite state parks, though it is quite a ways off the beaten path and one of the least visited in the Minnesota state park system. Beautiful trails through prairie and river bank forests with interpretive signs of early native and immigrant life, as well as the ecology of the area. Many examples of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) buildings. The mill area is an interesting look at farm life in the late 1800s. Some notes: I have hiked the hiking club trail multiple times now and it seems to constantly change. Previously having gone the length of the park at nearly 3 miles, it is now only 1.4. I would highly suggest if only visiting to hike that trail to also go across the river and then also visit the mill site. Previous times have had lots of ticks, but August 2025 none were seen. Interpretive signs indicate there is a lot of poison ivy around, so watch kids and wear appropriate clothing and footwear if hiking.
Lodie Van Der Walt
Kids enjoyed it a lot . Unfortunately the restrooms were all out of order and no one wants to "go" in the woods, sure it's illegal . Lack of restrooms aside, we had a nice day
Ammie A
The beach and swimming pond were clean and well maintained. The park has space for outdoor games, trails and a river to explore, plenty of room for sun bathing, and, of course, swimming. There is no running water or bathrooms, but there is an outhouse and stalls for changing.