Wild River State Park, MN

Wild River State Park
Minnesota

By the time Gerry and I loaded the Dolphin (our RV), waved goodbye to most of our belongings and closed on our home, we felt like we'd been put through the spin dry cycle of a washing machine.

What a relief it was to finally set up camp at Wild River, one of our favorite Minnesota State Parks. The park encompasses about 7000 acres with 18 miles of frontage on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. This is truly a park for all interests and seasons.

Wild River State Park, has very spacious and clean campsites! Each site has it's own firepit, picnic table and parking stall. Each site is semi-private, because of the highly wooded terrain around each one. Besides the tent camping, there's plenty of RV campsites complete with electrical hook ups.
	Of course, one of the best aspects of camping is just sitting around the campfire and getting to meet new friends.
Nature lovers can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a strenuous hike on the many miles of well marked trails.
If peddling a bicycle is more to your nature, there's also a paved biking and/or rollerblading paths.
	Horse enthusiasts can relax on the many miles of equestrian trails and even set up camp for the night in the equestrian area. If you like to ride but can't bring your horse, Wild River Stables is just outside the park entrance.
Along the St. Croix River, there is canoeing, boating, and great fishing for you and your family's enjoyment.


	This park offers many year round naturalist/interpretive programs. Gerry and I have enjoyed maple syruping, wildflower hikes, bird watching for beginners, and many other programs at this park.
Even in the winter, Wild River is the place to be! Miles of trails are kept groomed for cross country skiing and the park offers snowshoe and ski equipment rentals.
In addition to the campgrounds, there are two camping cabins and a guest house available for rent.

Reservations can be made by calling (952) 922-9000 Minneapolis/St.Paul area or 1-800-246-2267.

Be sure to check out the super sunsets and watch for the resident deer and wild turkeys. We've never been lucky enough to see the resident mamma bear and her cubs, but we have seen evidence of their existence......just ask Dave, the park naturalist, about the bird feeders.

Don't forget, there is a $4.00 daily permit or an annual $20.00 permit requirement for entrance to all Minnesota state parks. For more information about the Minnesota State Parks, you can go to the Minnesota DNR Web Site.

If you go to Wild River State Park, say "Hi" to the staff! They're a great group of people.

Till next time ... keep on smiling!

Next stop - Texas Gulf Coast.