A Family Guide to 6 Exciting State Parks near Minneapolis with Kids

This post featuring state parks near Minneapolis with kids may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclaimer & Disclosure Policy.

As a family, we love exploring the many beautiful Minnesota State Parks found across the state! From Nerstrand to Grand Portage, some of our best memories have been made while hiking, canoeing, and exploring these spectacular natural spaces in Minnesota. Some of our favorites, however, can be found close to where we live in the Twin Cities! If you are looking for fun Minnesota State Parks near Minneapolis with kids, I created this guide to help you explore six of the best parks within 75 minutes of the city.

In this family guide to some of the best state parks near Minneapolis, I’ve given a brief overview of each park. Plus, I’ve provided other highlights or things of note, including nearby places to eat, adventures within the park besides hiking, trail recommendations, and more. Indeed, it’s chock full of excellent hiking spots near Minneapolis with kids! 

All of these state parks require a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit (day pass or annual pass). You can purchase a yearly pass or day pass online (or on-site in most cases). Additionally, check your local library; many Minnesota libraries will lend state park passes. Finally, Minnesota observes four free entrance dates during the year. In 2024, these dates are: 

• Monday, January 15
• Saturday, April 27
• Saturday, June 8
• Friday, November 29.

Tips for Hiking + Exploring Minnesota State Parks near Minneapolis with Kids

Ready to explore one (or more!) of the best Minnesota State Parks near Minneapolis for families? Before you set out, there are a few tips that you need to know about exploring these family-friendly Minnesota hikes together.

• Download your trail map. Off-line access to the park map will be helpful if you lose reception while hiking.
• Some of the parks on this list can get pretty busy (looking at you, Fort Snelling State Park). If you want to avoid the crowds, plan an early morning, late afternoon, or early evening visit.
• Keep an eye on the weather. If you’re hiking in the shoulder or winter seasons, dress in layers and be mindful of the day’s weather report before embarking on your chosen hike. 
• Footwear. Hiking boots are recommended for all of these hikes, but tennis shoes will also serve you well. 
• Cost. It is $7 for a one-day vehicle permit, and $35 for an annual pass to Minnesota State Parks. Do the math to know which one you will need.
• Pack snacks and plenty of water, follow Leave No Trace principles, and have fun with your kids!

Hiking Gear + Packing List for Kids

READ NEXT: A Family Guide to the 8 State Parks on the North Shore of Minnesota

Interstate State Park, Taylors Falls

Just under 1 hour from Minneapolis.

Interstate State Park is, in my opinion, one of Minnesota’s most incredible state parks. Its unique rock formations make it a stand-out choice for families with kids. Plus, the park is also part of the first interstate state park system in the United States! Wisconsin has a twin state park on the other side of the river.

Undoubtedly, the glacial potholes are why most people seek out this state park. If your kids are anything like my daughter, they will LOVE climbing amongst the enormous rocks. There are very few guardrails, however, so climb and explore with care. These intriguing geological formations will spark kids’ imaginations. Meanwhile, adults will love the picturesque views of the St. Croix River.

As one of the best Minnesota state parks for families, it also has a visitor center with interpretive exhibits! In the summer, you may also see rangers with fun displays at the glacial pothole area entrance. With so many fantastic features, this is undoubtedly one of the best state parks near Minneapolis with kids!

If you want to get on the water, there are two fun ways for families to do so:

• Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers narrated tours aboard a historic, paddlewheel riverboat. In addition to the standard tour options (45 or 80 minutes), they also offer seasonal holiday options. They are an excellent way for families to see fascinating rock formations from the water and learn more about local history. We did a 45-minute tour, which was the perfect length with kids.
• Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental offers rentals and varying trip lengths. 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. 

Best Trails at Interstate State Park State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in Interstate State Park State Park are rated as easy to moderate. Here are two great options with kids:

• 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

Additional Highlights + Notes for Interstate State Park State Park

• Best season to hike here: Summer, Fall
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Picnic areas, rock climbing (permits required), and canoeing/kayaking
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Juneberry Cafe, Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria, The Drive In Restaurant (summer only)
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Wild River State Park, Center City

Just under 1 hour from Minneapolis.

If you are looking for one of the best state parks near Minneapolis for kids with paved, accessible trails, Wild River State Park is your answer! Due to the wide, paved trails, Wild River State Park is the perfect option for wheelchair users, strollers, and tiny trekkers. Nestled along the St. Croix River, it is a lovely Minnesota State Park for bird watching and spotting wildlife. Please note, paved trails are not plowed or maintained during the winter.

In our experience, this is one of the quieter state parks on this list, which is one of the many reasons why we love it! It’s our go-to spot if we are looking for a low-key hike in the woods. We love the wide trails surrounded by towering trees. You can also get epic views of the St. Croix River Valley from the visitor’s center deck (simply lovely in the fall!). The visitor’s center has a small, indoor interpretive display that will appeal to young kids, too.

Finally, indoor restrooms are open year-round. And, there is a warming house near the horse campground in the winter. With so many trail options, this is undoubtedly one of the best Minnesota state parks with kids!

Best Trails at Wild River State Park State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in Wild River State Park State Park are rated as easy to moderate. Here are three great options with kids:

• The Mitigwaki Loop – easy, 1-mile loop trail
• Old Logging Trail, easy, 3-mile (paved, fully accessible)
• Deer Creek Loop – moderate, 3-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Wild River State Park State Park

• Best season to hike here: All seasons
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Picnic areas, wheelchair-accessible trails, canoe access, fish, warming house in the winter, paved bike trails, groomed cross-country skiing and skate-skiing trails, and snowshoe trails
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Juneberry Cafe, Schoony’s Malt Shop and Pizzeria, Wild Mountain Winery, The Drive In Restaurant (summer only)
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

READ NEXT: How to Spend a Summer Weekend in Pine City with Kids

Fort Snelling State Park, Saint Paul 

Just minutes from Minneapolis.

Hiking near Minneapolis with kids doesn’t get much better than Fort Snelling State Park! Located in Saint Paul, this state park is nestled along the confluence of two beautiful rivers, the Mississippi and the Minnesota. It’s also the home of Historic Fort Snelling. The fort is worth a visit on its own, and it offers a unique opportunity for families and kids of all ages to learn about local history. 

We love Fort Snelling State Park for its wide trails and beautiful woods and water views. However, it is also one of the most crowded Minnesota State Parks for families on this list. Regardless of the season, you should expect it to be busy. Go early to ensure you can find parking.

Our favorite trail in the park is the Pike Island Loop on Pike Island. Nearly 4 miles in the summer (and about 3 miles in the winter), it’s ideal for hiking and snowshoeing. In the winter, you can warm up inside the visitor center after your hike. It has a fireplace, an interpretive exhibit, and toilets. Additionally, snowshoe rentals are available at the visitor center (first come, first serve) if needed. 

Best Trails at Fort Snelling State Park State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in Fort Snelling State Park State Park are rated as easy or moderate. Here are two great options with kids:

• Pike Island Loop – easy, 3.9-mile loop trail
• Snelling Lake Loop – easy, 2.3-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Fort Snelling State Park State Park

• Best season to hike here: All seasons
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Picnic areas, playground, swimming beach and fishing pier, winter warming house, paved + mountain biking trails, and cross-country ski trails.
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Highland Grill, The Nook, Red Cow
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Looking for more state park ideas in the Midwest? Read: 13 Most Beautiful State and National Parks in the Midwest.

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, Nerstrand

Just over 1 hour from Minneapolis (near Northfield).

Waterfall hikes are some of my favorite trails in Minnesota! If you love them too, make Nerstrand Big Woods State Park your next hiking adventure with kids. Located about an hour south of Minneapolis (near Northfield), this state park will delight kids of all ages.

From spring wildflowers to frozen winter wonderlands, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is one of my top picks for the best Minnesota state parks for kids in every season. The woods are dotted with colorful wildflowers in the spring and early summer. Then, the waterfall comes alive with the spring melt. Meanwhile, winter visitors will be in awe of the frozen falls. Of course, fall means the park turns into a kaleidoscope of color. You really can’t go wrong with this one! 

One of the best features of this park, however, is the wooden, train-themed playground. Kids will adore playing here before or after your hike. And, if you never make it past the playground, it’s still a great day out with kids! There is also a visitor center on-site. Indeed, if you’re looking for state parks near Minneapolis with kids that are worth the drive, this is one of the best!

Best Trails at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in Nerstrand Big Woods State Park State Park are rated as easy to moderate. Here are three great options with kids:

• Hidden Falls Trail – easy, 1-mile loop trail (features a waterfall!)
• Fawn Trail – easy, 1.7-mile loop trail
• Prairie Trail – easy, 4.5-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Nerstrand Big Woods State Park State Park

• Best season to hike here: All seasons
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Playground, picnic area, and snowshoeing
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Tokyo Grill, El Tequila Mexican Restaurant, Hogan Brothers, Coco’s Place, Brick Oven Bakery
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Frontenac State Park, Frontenac

About 75 minutes southeast of Minneapolis (near Red Wing).

A fall favorite Minnesota State Park for many families, Frontenac State Park offers epic views of Lake Pepin, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding bluffs. It is also a great spot to see migrating birds returning to Minnesota in the spring.

When you enter and park at Frontenac State Park, you will immediately get a breathtaking view of Lake Pepin. Near the parking lot, there is a lovely green space that’s perfect for letting kids run about or for picnics. In fact, plenty of the picnic tables offer a view of the water below!

If you want to see the park’s iconic natural stone archway, In Yan Teopa, take the Bluffside Trail (Upper Bluff Trail). It is relatively flat and leads directly to the landmark. Of course, there are a few overlooks of Lake Pepin along the way, too.

Best Trails at Frontenac State Park State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in Frontenac State Park State Park are rated as easy to moderate. Here are four great options with kids:

• Bluffside Trail – moderate, 2.9-mile loop trail
• Frontenac State Park Hiking Club Trail – easy, 2.5-mile loop trail
• Lake Pepin Overlook Loop – moderate, 3.6-mile loop trail

Additional Highlights + Notes for Frontenac State Park State Park

• Best season to hike here: Summer, fall
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Picnic area, sliding hill in the winter, wheelchair-accessible trails, paved biking trails, cross-country ski trails, and snowshoeing 
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: Whistle Stop Cafe, Bev’s Cafe, Red Wing Brewery
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

William O’Brien State Park, Marine on St. Croix 

Less than 50 minutes from Minneapolis. 

If you’re searching for Minnesota State Parks within an hour of Minneapolis, William O’Brien State Park is an excellent option with kids. Our favorite hike in the park is the 1.8-mile Riverside Trail. This short loop trail will take you down wide paths along the river. In fact, it offers beautiful views of Minnesota and Wisconsin – with the river in between! The picnic tables near Lake Alice are perfect for a snack or lunch.

In the winter, most of the park is reserved for cross-country skiing and skate-skiing. In fact, the majority of trails are dedicated to skiing. There are 12 groomed miles of skiing trails in the winter, ranging from easy to difficult. Conversely, only one trail is reserved for hiking and snowshoeing—the Riverside Trail. If you hike here in the winter, remember that seasonal road closures create a steep entrance/exit to the trail and make it a longer trek. 

Finally, the visitor center is open year-round. As one of the best Minnesota state parks with kids, it features interpretive exhibits, a water fountain, a wood stove, and flush toilets. 

NOTE: Due to an accessibility improvement project, the Riverside Trail will be closed in 2024. Find updates here.

Best Trails at William O’Brien State Park with Kids 

Most of the trails in William O’Brien State Park are rated as easy to moderate. Here are two great options with kids:

• Riverside Trail – easy, 1.8-mile loop trail
• Prairie Overlook Loop – moderate, 4.8-mile loop trail 

Additional Highlights + Notes for William O’Brien State Park

• Best season to hike here: Summer, fall, winter
• Other outdoor adventure activities here: Picnic area, swimming beach + fishing pier, wheelchair-accessible trails, paved biking trails, groomed cross-country skiing and skate-skiing trails, and snowshoeing 
• Nearby family-friendly places to eat: The Ozark Tavern, Scandia Pizzeria
• Is a state park pass needed?: Yes

Enjoy Hiking in Minnesota with Kids!

I think that Minnesota State Parks are some of the best places to make memories with your kids! We love exploring the many state parks across the state – and hope that you do too. From spotting wildlife and hiking to swimming and canoeing, Minnesota State Parks offer endless ways for families to connect and have fun together. These are just a few of our favorite hiking spots near Minneapolis with kids. If you’re traveling out of the Twin Cities, you can also find our North Shore favorites by clicking here. I hope this list featuring some of the best state parks near Minneapolis with kids helps you find the perfect spot for your next day out with kids!

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.