Your BIG Family Guide to Interstate State Park with Kids

ByAntonia

This post featuring my guide to Interstate State Park with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy (linked below).

A young girl climbs amongst the rocks at Insterstate State Park.

If you're looking for a Minnesota state park that truly WOWS both kids and adults, Interstate State Park is one our family can't stop visiting with our kiddo. Just under an hour from Minneapolis, it feels like stepping into a whole new world with its scenic river views and towering cliffs. 

This guide to Interstate State Park with kids will help you make the most of your family visit, from admiring the famous glacial potholes to trekking along the park’s best kid-friendly trails. With dramatic cliffs, fascinating geology, and endless views, it's one of the best state parks for families near Minneapolis. When you visit Interest State Park, curiosity takes over, and adventure comes naturally! Here's what you need to know about visiting Interstate State Park with your kids.

Know Before You Go

A beautiful view of the bluffs along the river near Taylors Falls.

Here's everything you need to know before visiting Interstate State Park with your kids:

  • Nearest City: Taylors Falls
  • Address: 307 Milltown Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
  • Vehicles require a Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit (annual or day-pass)
  • Alternatively, you can park in town for free and walk into the park if you don't have a vehicle permit (take the pedestrian underpass under the bridge to the park entrance)
  • Open daily from 8 am until 10 pm (visitor center + ranger station hours vary by season)
  • Best seasons to hike here: Summer and Fall
  • Interstate State Park Maps
  • Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Juneberry Cafe, Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria, The Drive In Restaurant (summer only)
  • Pack a lunch (there is a large picnic area next to the St. Croix River for families)

Unique Park Highlights

A historic paddle boat moves down the St. Croix River, one of the best things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids.

This state park features unique characteristics that are hard to find elsewhere in Minnesota. They include:

Best Hiking Trails in Interstate State Park for Families

A young girl looks at a view of the river, while hiking at Interstate State Park, one of the best state parks near Minneapolis with kids.

There are 4 miles of trails within the park. Most of the trails in Interstate State Park are rated as easy or moderate. Here are 2 of my top picks for the best trails in Interstate State Park for families:

  • Glacial Pothole and Ice Age Trail – easy, 1.7-mile out-and-back trail
  • Summit Rock, River Bluff, and Echo Canyon Loop – easy, 1.3-mile loop trail

Seasonal Things to Do in Interstate State Park

A dad and his young daughter sit in a canoe, while embarking on a day trip from Chisago Lakes.

There are plenty of fun seasonal things to do in Interstate State Park with your kids. Here are a few good ones to know about while you plan your visit!

In the summer, I highly recommend booking a tour with Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. We loved doing the One-Way Trip to Osceola. It took us about 3 hours, with stops. Pack a picnic because you can stop along the route at several islands, sand bars, and beaches. A shuttle brings you back to the parking lot.

Alternatively, you can bring your own kayak and put it in the water, too! Just be sure to have two cars so you can manage the transportation between launch sites.

Winter activities include hiking and snowshoeing. The southern end of the park offers the easiest trails for snowshoeing (other areas may be too rocky for your gear). There are no groomed winter trails for cross-country skiing in this park. 

Tips for Visiting Interstate State Park with Kids

A dad and his young daughter explore Interstate State Park together.

Here are a few tips for visiting Interstate State Park with kids:

  • I recommend wearing waterproof shoes, as puddles collect easily among the rocks
  • Hiking shoes with good ankle support are also a must here
  • If you want to get on the water, book a tour with Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental or Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours (we've done both, and they are excellent!)
  • If you don't have a Minnesota State Park Vehicle Pass, park in town (free parking) and walk into the park. There is a pedestrian underpass on the edge of downtown that goes beneath the bridge. Do NOT cross at the stoplights; use the underpass.
  • Let kids climb along the rocks (with supervision). This is a highlight of the park!
  • Wisconsin also has an Interstate State Park across the river. These two parks were the first interstate parks in the nation. Visit the Wisconsin side for a new perspective! 
  • It’s always good to pack a First-Aid Kit, reusable water bottles, and snacks
  • Download your trail map (offline access to the park map will be helpful if you lose reception while hiking)
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles and have fun with your kids!

Family Itinerary for Interstate State Park 

Canoes at rest on the St. Croix River on a sunny day.

Let's plan your family visit to Interstate State Park. I've included two itinerary ideas. One for a short visit and one for a longer visit.

If You Only Have 1 Hour

Park near the visitor center and make your way to the Glacial Potholes Area. It's a short walk from the parking lot. Then, follow this itinerary:

  • Take a peek into the world's deepest explored pothole
  • Discover potholes in all shapes and sizes while you walk around
  • Watch climbers along the larger rocks
  • Take in the beautiful views of the river gorge (watch for the iconic paddlewheel boat!)

If You Have More Time

If you have more time, try this summer family itinerary!

  • Explore the Glacial Potholes Area first. Then, move your car to the canoe launch area (a different parking lot in the park)
  • Book the One-Way Trip to Osceola-this 3+ hour tour gets you on the water and exploring the river together. 
  • Pack a cooler with drinks and lunch to enjoy along the way
  • There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy (you can fish, swim, watch for turtles, etc.)
  • If you have more time in the afternoon, hike along the Summit Rock, River Bluff, and Echo Canyon Loop (this is an easy, 1.3-mile loop trail)
  • Grab dinner in Taylors Falls at The Drive In Restaurant (they have mini-golf nearby too!)

Where to Stay near Interstate State Park

Antonia and her friend on the deck at Shorely Cabin.

If you are planning a family trip to visit Interstate State Park, here's where to stay in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, with kids:

Have Fun Exploring Interstate State Park with Your Kids! 

Two riverboats from Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour move down the St. Croix River in the fall.

However you choose to spend your day, Interstate State Park is one of the best state parks in Minnesota to explore with kids. From scrambling over ancient rock formations to soaking in the views of the St. Croix River, it's the kind of family adventure that never gets old (so, like us, you'll want to keep returning any chance you get!). 

I hope this guide to Interstate State Park helps you plan a day that's full of discovery, fresh air, and plenty of fun with kids. Don't forget to slow down and simply take pleasure in exploring together. I hope your family enjoys some of the best trails and activities in Interstate State Park!

Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article were taken by and belong to the blog’s author, Antonia Grant. A reminder that this post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy for more information. 

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