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Whitewater
Overview
Whitewater State Park, located near Altura, Minnesota, is a jewel of the Driftless Area. This park is famous for its dramatic limestone bluffs and the winding Whitewater River. Unlike many Minnesota parks, it is known for being relatively mosquito-free due to the lack of standing water in the immediate vicinity. It offers a peaceful escape for RVers looking to immerse themselves in a landscape defined by rugged cliffs and clear, cold-water streams.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, the park sits within a deep valley carved by ancient water. The surrounding Bluff Country provides a stark contrast to the flat prairies often associated with the Midwest. It is conveniently located about 30 miles east of Rochester, making it accessible while still feeling completely secluded. The Whitewater River serves as the central artery of the park, providing both beauty and recreational opportunities for all visitors.
Amenities & Park Features
The park offers a variety of camping options across several loops, providing a mix of sun and shade. Amenities for RV travelers include:
- Electric sites that accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 50 feet in length.
- A seasonal sanitary dump station and fresh water fill located near the campground entrance.
- Modern restrooms with heated showers and flush toilets available during the main season.
- A sandy swimming beach and a year-round visitor center with interpretive displays.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers flock here for the world-class trout fishing, as the river remains spring-fed and cool throughout the year. Hikers can challenge themselves on the trail to Chimney Rock, which offers panoramic views of the valley below. Nearby, the town of Elba features a historic fire tower that visitors can climb for even more expansive views of the region. For a change of pace, the National Eagle Center in Wabasha is a short drive away, offering educational programs about local wildlife.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal destination for nature photographers and hikers who appreciate rugged terrain and scenic vistas. It is also perfect for families seeking a traditional outdoor experience without the nuisance of heavy insects. Because of its year-round accessibility for hiking and trout fishing, it appeals to outdoor enthusiasts across all seasons. It is best suited for those who prefer the quiet atmosphere of a state park over a commercial resort style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Cindee Haider
This state park offers trails for every level of hiker. The Meadow, The Valley and The Trout Run Creek trails are great for those who want little to no elevation on their hike. The other trails have various levels of elevations and stairs, but all lead to spectacular views. Each hiker should determine what they can handle. What was listed as difficult seemed moderate to some. Research your trails and talk with the rangers at the office/vistor/gift shop. They are wonderful to talk to. Download your maps, as there is little to no cell service due to the gorgeous bluffs that surround you. But, if you don't, the trails are some of the best marked trails in the State Park System. Watching a family fishing for trout was a smile maker. Our Campground site was clean and spacious. Kuddos to all who make this park so spectacular.
Dan Sheppard
Whitewater a damn fine park. Beautiful in that old, honest way nature has when it doesn’t care if you’re looking or not. I’d give it high 9s, if scores meant anything. Whitewater even had those visitor centers, little government boxes filled with maps and bathrooms that only half work, sewer only! But clean and stocked “not bad” Whitewater even had a nature store—sold those Carley State Park walking stick badges.(Carley doesn’t have a store) I bought one anyway. Felt like a sucker. Didn’t care. Whitewater campground was packed and Carley was closed for camping. Some nonsense about the season ending, even though it was burning hot—90s and climbing. Probably for the best. I wouldn’t have slept worth a damn in that heat. My bones already ache enough from climbing all those stairs to heaven at Whitewater, extra points added for the carpenters who built them. I’ll go back. Carley too. They pull at you, those places. I’ll update the scores if I make it out alive.
Roberta W.
Came expecting beautiful colors and scenery, but the park scenery was a disappointment…when I asked about Fall colors the rangers said they don’t get great colors because the dominant tree is the oak. Hiked 594 steps round trip to see the overview and it wasn’t worth it. I stayed in a cabin which was very nice, but did hear lots of noise from the nearby group camp. The showers and flush toilets are far away. The park had an unpleasant smell and the water at the “beach” was brown, brackish and looked unsafe. Other than the nice cabin this park was a disappointment.
Katelin Shaft
Whitewater State Park is a wonderful place to bring your family and friends! While I have been hiking and exploring Whitewater for many years, I had my first camping experience EVER this past weekend. The campsites were very well maintained and it was clear that both patrons and park rangers deeply respect the area and the wildlife within it. The bathroom and shower facilities exceeded my wildest dreams. They were clean (despite a few small bugs, but hey, that’s to be expected!) and they actually smelled…good and fresh? This is THE campsite to go to if you or a loved one are new to camping. It’s a great introductory site!
Tiffany Hinderscheit
My sisters and I only went on the Chimney Rock Trail but it was beautiful! The scenic view of the area was breathtaking! Yes the trail was more rugged and not for everyone, but if able to it's a must. My sisters and I would definitely come back and check out the other trails Whitewater State Park has to offer! 🥾