Eight State Parks within an Hour of the Twin Cities

Here are eight state parks within an hour’s drive of the Twin Cities (Minneapolis–Saint Paul)—perfect for a weekend hike, picnic, or nature outing:

🌲 1. Afton State Park

• Location: Hastings, MN

• Highlights: Scenic bluff views over the St. Croix River, prairie trails, birdwatching, and swimming beach.

• Pet-friendly: Yes (leashed pets allowed on trails).

🌳 2. Fort Snelling State Park

• Location: St. Paul, MN

• Highlights: Historic site at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, hiking/biking trails, fishing, and canoeing.

• Pet-friendly: Yes (on leash).

🌾 3. William O’Brien State Park

• Location: Near Marine on St. Croix, MN

• Highlights: Rolling hills, wetlands, and oak forests; excellent for camping, hiking, and birdwatching.

• Pet-friendly: Yes.

🏞️ 4. Interstate State Park

• Location: Taylors Falls, MN

• Highlights: Glacial potholes, rock climbing, and scenic views along the St. Croix River.

• Pet-friendly: Yes (leashed).

🪵 5. Lake Maria State Park

• Location: Monticello, MN

• Highlights: Quiet hiking trails, backpacking campsites, and old-growth maple/basswood forest.

• Pet-friendly: Yes.

🌼 6. Wild River State Park

• Location: Center City, MN

• Highlights: Over 35 miles of trails, river canoeing, and wildlife watching along the St. Croix River.

• Pet-friendly: Yes.

🌿 7. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

• Location: Near Northfield, MN

• Highlights: Waterfall hikes, spring wildflowers, and dense hardwood forest.

• Pet-friendly: Yes.

🌤️ 8. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area

• Location: Jordan, MN (also has trails in Shakopee and Belle Plaine)

• Highlights: Multi-use trails for biking, horseback riding, and hiking; river valley views.

• Pet-friendly: Yes.