Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Minnesota
Twin Cities - Metro Region
Interstate State Park
Interstate State Park Down by the Riverside © Steve Muehleis
Family enjoys the river views as the valley forest is ablaze in the autumn colors of red, gold, and orange.
Interstate State Park © bobby hissam
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
INTERSTATE STATE PARK
INTERSTATE STATE PARK
307 Milltown Road
Taylors Falls, Minnesota   55084

Phone: 651-465-5711
Toll Free: 888-646-6367
Reservations: 866-857-2757
Email: park email button icon
There is so much to do at Interstate State Park, located on the beautiful St. Croix River. Visitors can climb the cliffs of the St. Croix River Dalles, canoe the flatwater, watch kayakers rush through the rapids, or relax on a excursion boat. Spring brings a great diversity of wildflowers and in fall, the St. Croix River Valley forest is ablaze in the autumn colors of red, gold, and orange. The geology that formed this park intrigues visitors, and brings geologists from all over the world. At least 10 different lava flows are exposed in the park, along with two distinct glacial deposits, and traces of old streams valleys and faults. During the summer, hike the trails and explore the glacial potholes that make this park unique.
History of the Area
In the 1800s, the threat of mining the St. Croix Dalles prompted leaders from Minnesota and Wisconsin to preserve the Dalles of the St. Croix River. Working together, the first interstate (Minnesota and Wisconsin) park in the nation was established. The Minnesota Legislature established the park in 1895; the Wisconsin Legislature followed in 1900. Today, visitors can hike both sides of the St. Croix River at Interstate Park in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Boating
Visitors can enjoy a variety of boating options. The park offers canoe rentals for those who wish to paddle along the St. Croix River, which is also popular for fishing and scenic boat tours are available as well. Motorized boats are allowed on this river but there's a speed limit in place within certain areas to protect wildlife habitats.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the St. Croix River, home to species like smallmouth bass and northern pike. The river also boasts walleye, sauger, catfish and sturgeon populations for anglers' delight. Shoreline or boat fishing are both available options here.



Picnicking
Interstate State Park offers picnic tables, fire rings and grills. A large shelter can be reserved for group picnics.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy the 1.25-mile paved trail, but be aware it's shared with pedestrians and skaters.

Mountain bikers should note that off-road biking is not permitted within this park to protect natural resources.

The Gateway State Trail nearby offers a longer ride of about 18 miles for those seeking more distance.

However, cyclists must remain cautious as some parts are steep or rocky which may pose challenges especially during wet conditions.

Remember also to respect wildlife by keeping noise levels low while cycling through these beautiful surroundings.

Always wear protective gear such as helmets when riding in order to ensure safety at all times on trails here.
Nature Programs
The park's landscape is diverse and includes floodplains and forests of hard maple, oak, and pine. Many rare and endangered species are found in the park. For a small, highly visited area, Interstate is a haven to these unique species. Historically, small gardens were planted in the pothole area in the early 1900s. The park is restoring these gardens for visitors to enjoy.

About 1.1 billion years ago, earthquakes erupted from Taylors Falls to Lake Superior. At least 10 different lava flows were the result. The hardened basalt rock from these lava flows was partly responsible for the formation of the Dalles of the St. Croix and the bottom of the river. From 530 million years ago up until 70 million years ago, the state was washed by advancing and retreating seas. Evidence of these ancient seas is revealed in the sedimentary rocks and formations found in the park. These rocks contain fossil remains of ancient animals, evidence of various creatures, and ripple marks left in stone by the now vanished seas. Actually, there have been many different St. Croix Valleys down through the ages. The original one was formed about 70 million years ago. The last one, which exists today, was formed about 10,000 years ago. This last glacier formed both Glacial Lake Duluth, now Lake Superior, and Glacial Lake Grantsburg, now extinct. Glacial Lake Duluth was much larger than Lake Superior is now. As this giant body of ice thawed, its meltwaters roared south to carve out the broad valley of the St. Croix. Only very resistant basalts were able to partially withstand the torrent, resulted in the dalles, potholes, and cliffs.

Creeks and springs that flow into the St. Croix River support white-tailed deer, skunks, raccoons, squirrels, and many different birds. There are many places in the park to listen for bird songs and owl calls.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons. The park offers guided birding hikes during spring migration season. Bird checklists are available for self-guided tours as well.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Wildwood Campground
20020 Lake Boulevard
Shafer, MN
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
The park is approximately 45 miles northeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul on U.S. Highway 8.

state route ranger badge
Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

X