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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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USA Parks
Minnesota
Heartland Region
Buena Vista State Forest
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BUENA VISTA STATE FOREST
BUENA VISTA STATE FOREST
Buena Vista State Forest, located in northern Minnesota, is a pristine and diverse natural sanctuary that spans over 6600 acres. With its towering old-growth pine trees, scenic water bodies, and abundant wildlife, this forest offers a serene escape into nature. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails, meander through the lush fern-covered forest floor, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the clear and picturesque lakes. The forest is also popular among bird watchers, as it serves as a habitat for various bird species, including bald eagles and colorful warblers. With its tranquil atmosphere and untouched beauty, Buena Vista State Forest is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts seeking solace in the heart of Minnesota.
History of the Area
Buena Vista State Forest is located in north-central Minnesota, covering parts of Beltrami, Cass, and Itasca counties. It was established in 1937 and is one of the oldest state forests in Minnesota. The forest's name "Buena Vista" means "beautiful view" in Spanish.

The area has a rich history, primarily connected to logging and conservation efforts. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, extensive logging took place in northern Minnesota, including the region that is now Buena Vista State Forest. Loggers cut down large stands of pine trees for timber, which played a vital role in the development of the timber industry in the state.

After logging depleted much of the original forest cover, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program during the Great Depression, played a significant role in reforestation and rehabilitation of the area. The CCC workers planted trees, built roads, trails, bridges, and recreational facilities, helping restore the forested landscape.

Buena Vista State Forest encompasses over 130,000 acres of land, consisting mainly of aspen forests, mixed hardwoods, and some coniferous trees like red and white pine. The forest is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with the aim to balance multiple uses, such as timber production, wildlife habitat management, and recreational activities.

The forest offers various recreational opportunities for visitors, including hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. It is also home to numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands, providing habitats for a diverse range of plants and animals.

Throughout its history, Buena Vista State Forest has witnessed significant changes due to human activities and conservation efforts. However, its value as a natural resource and recreational destination continues to be recognized and preserved for future generations.
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Trails
1. Buena Vista Ski Trails: This trail system offers over 25 kilometers of groomed trails that are perfect for hiking during the summer months, and cross-country skiing in winter. The terrain varies from flat to hilly with a mix of hardwoods and conifers.

2. Aspen Trail: A moderate difficulty level trail spanning approximately 3 miles through mixed forest areas filled with aspen trees, offering beautiful views especially during fall when leaves change color.

3. Pine Ridge Loop: An easy hike covering about two miles within mature pine forests; it's an ideal choice for beginners or those seeking a leisurely walk amidst nature.

4. Spruce Hollow Trail: It is one of the more challenging hikes at around four miles long featuring steep inclines leading into spruce-filled valleys providing stunning vistas along its route.

5. Birch Creek Pathway: Approximately three-mile-long pathway meandering alongside Birch creek known for abundant bird sightings making it popular among bird watchers.

6. Wildflower Way: As name suggests this short but scenic path showcases variety wildflowers blooming throughout spring till early summers attracting botany enthusiasts alike.

7. Fern Gully Track: Short half mile track winding through dense fern undergrowth giving feel like walking in tropical rainforest right here Minnesota.

8. Red Maple Ramble: Two-and-a-half-mile loop traversing deciduous woodland dominated by red maple trees turning vibrant shades orange-red come autumn season.

9. White Oak Wander: Three Mile trek taking you deep inside old growth white oak groves where some specimens estimated be several hundred years old.

10. Cedar Swamp Stroll: One most unique features park this boardwalk stroll takes visitors across cedar swamp without getting feet wet opportunity observe diverse flora fauna thriving these wetlands up close personal.

11. Eagle's View Overlook: Half mile uphill climb leads panoramic view entire state forest atop hill also chance spot eagles soaring high above sky.

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Area Campgrounds
Royal Oaks RV Park
2874 Fenske Farm Lane Southeast
Bemidji, MN
218-751-8357

Directions
1. Start by getting on I:94 W from S 4th St.
2. Continue on I:94 W and take US-10 W to MN-371 N/US Hwy 71 N in Staples.
3. Take exit 127B for MN:210 toward Motley/Baxter and merge onto MN-210 E/MN Ave E.
4. Follow signs for Brainerd/Baxter and continue straight onto Excelsior Rd/Laurel St/Washington St NE/South Dr NW (signs for Baxter).
5. Use any lane to turn left at the first cross street onto Edgewood Dr/Northland Blvd/Cypress Dr SW (signs for County Road 48).
6. Continue to follow Cypress Drive Southwest until you reach a roundabout; take the second exit onto Highland Scenic Highway Northwest/County Road 77 heading northbound.
7. Follow this road as it turns into Irvine Avenue North after crossing over Mississippi River Bridge.
8. Turn right at Lake Shore Drive Northeast then make another immediate right following Cozy Cove Resort sign.
9. After approximately half a mile, you will arrive at your destination: Buena Vista State Forest.

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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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