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Wild River
Overview
Wild River State Park offers a serene escape along the banks of the St. Croix River in Minnesota. Located near Center City, this park spans thousands of acres of protected prairie and woodland, providing a peaceful haven for travelers. It is widely recognized for its expansive trail system and its role in preserving the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. RVers visit this destination to reconnect with the natural world while enjoying well-maintained facilities that prioritize the beauty of the Minnesota wilderness over commercial flash.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the heart of the Chisago Lakes area, the park is framed by the dramatic valley of the St. Croix River. The surrounding landscape features a diverse mix of lush forests, oak savannas, and restored prairies that change beautifully with the seasons. Its proximity to the Twin Cities makes it an accessible weekend getaway, yet the dense canopy and river bluffs provide a profound sense of isolation. Visitors often spend their evenings enjoying panoramic river views from the high banks overlooking the water.
Amenities & Park Features
The park provides multiple camping loops with electric hookups that can accommodate a variety of RV sizes. While the park leans toward a rustic, natural experience, guests have seasonal access to modern restrooms, clean showers, and a convenient dump station. The all-season trail center serves as a central hub for activity, offering a place to rest between excursions. For those traveling with horses, the park also features a dedicated equestrian campground with hitching rails and accessible water sources.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 35 miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems or launch a canoe for a day of paddling on the river. Just a short drive from the park entrance, the Franconia Sculpture Park offers a unique cultural experience with massive outdoor art installations. Additionally, the nearby town of Taylors Falls provides access to the famous glacial potholes of Interstate State Park and scenic paddlewheel boat tours that showcase the area's geology.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature photographers and active travelers who prioritize birdwatching, hiking, and water sports over resort-style luxuries. It is a perfect fit for families looking for an educational outdoor experience or RVers seeking a quiet retreat away from the hum of highway traffic. If your travel style involves stargazing, woodland wildlife, and the gentle sounds of a flowing river, Wild River State Park is an excellent choice for your next Minnesota itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Patrick Griffin
Visited there today. We checked out the campground and facilities but did not stay. They looked very nice. Trails are awesome and scenic
Danielle
What a beautiful park! I've overlooked this park for years thinking there wasn't much there but I was mistaken. They're is tons to do!! Historic trails, interpretative center, river activities and all around great people!! Went for the art exhibit and I will definitely be back for more activities!
Josh Lyczkowski
My friends and I went to wild river for the day to explore and hunt down mushrooms. The park is very clean and the nature was amazing. After being lost in the woods for a while we decided to setup a picnic at the visitors center. My only criticism is how the visitors center had no drinking fountain and the water that came from the faucets in the bathroom has a very metallic taste to it. Otherwise the park was excellent. We ventured down the river afterwards and went swimming before heading home. A very enjoyable experience.
Jess Heuer
Plenty of hiking trails. There weren't a lot of people camping this weekend so it was very quiet. The campsites are decently spaced, but could use more electric sites. Very clean.
Lori Jones
I go to horse camps. It is vital for people who *do not* have horses to camp in people camp, so equestrians have the space available that is designated for us. If you are hiking on horse trails & encounter horses, please be sure to say hello with a bit of small talk so horses know you are human. Please lower backpacks, fishing poles to your feet or side. Please keep walking sticks still & do not wave your ball cap. Dogs not accustomed to horses are intimidated and their behavior often unpredictable. Please ensure your dog is entirely under your control. Runners need to slow to a walk as soon as you see horses and until you pass. Please say hello. Wild River has a nice horse camp with electric sites. Day riders park in middle. Trails are natural surface with some areas laid with rock. There are bears in this area. Educate yourself about black bears.