Big Lagoon State Park | Likes Dislikes

big lagoon state park boardwalk

Review: RV Camping, Hiking & Recreation Pensacola’s Big Lagoon State Park

Big Lagoon State Park is located along the Gulf Beach Highway that connects Fort Morgan and Gulf Shores at the western end to Pensacola and then east to Destin, Panama City Beach and beyond. Technically it is not on the Gulf but on the mainland side of the “big lagoon” formed by Perdido Key which forms a barrier island between it and the Gulf of Mexico. The park does offer some sand beach swimming areas on the lagoon but they don’t compare to what you find in nearby Pensacola Beach.

boardwalk big lagoon state park
A view from the park tower of one of the many boardwalks that are part of the hiking trail system at Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola Florida

Big Lagoon Amenities and Activities

The lagoon and the interior lakes within the park offer lots of protected-water paddling territory for canoeing and kayaking. If you don’t have your own watercraft, kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available from the Ranger Station.

The hiking trails through the coastal forest and boardwalks along the shoreline plus a three-story observation tower provide lots of bird-watching and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. There are over 5 miles of varied hiking and nature trails plus several boardwalks.

big lagoon state park
If you stand just outside the little camp store, you can get free Wi-Fi
big lagoon state park hiking
The hiking trails are wide and sandy or are wooden boardwalks.
big lagoon state park boardwalk
One of the Boardwalk/Nature Trails in the park

The park offers a full-boat launch area giving access to the lagoon and gulf for fishing and boating.

Biking is another popular recreational activity along over 3 miles of lightly traveled paved park roads. Gulf Beach Highway borders the North edge of the park. It provides additional biking opportunities as there’s a sidewalk running adjacent to the highway. That sidewal allowed us to safely bike to Shopping Plaza a mile or two West of the park entrance to do some shopping. If you are ambitious enough, you might also be able to bike across the Theo Baers Bridge all the way to Rosamond Johnson Beach along the gulf on Perdido Key. There you can enjoy a day on the outstanding several mile long white sand gulf side beach that is part of the National Gulf Island Seashore Park.

big lagoon state park
Lots of trails for biking and hiking plus several picnic areas

March 2023 Note: On our recent visit to Big Lagoon, we found, due to storm damage, the East Beach area and the central pavilion section of the park was closed. So some of the swimming, hiking, biking, and boardwalk area was off-limits. Unsure how long it will be before repairs are completed.

Review: Big Lagoon RV Campground Facilities

The campground has 75 campsites with 30 & 50 amp service and is served by 3 full-service restrooms. The main park roads are paved but the campsites themselves are sand with some gravel. Most of the sites have good plant screening providing some privacy separation. Some of the sites along the edge of marsh are subject to flooding in heavier rains. The maximum RV length is 40 feet. Several areas of the park, including the washrooms, are wheelchair accessible and there are a few designated accessible camp sites that are paved.

big lagoon state park
Typical Big Lagoon Campsite

There is a small camp store with limited hours at the eastern end of the campground. But a decent sized shopping center including grocery and adult beverage stores is only about a mile from the park entrance. Also nearby is one of our favorite Pensacola Golf Courses – Perdido Bay GC and Triggers Restaurant – a great family owned seafood restaurant. A library that offers Wi-Fi is located just across the street from the park entrance. Other popular Pensacola attractions, like the fantastic Naval Air Museum, Fort Barrancas, and the Pensacola Lighthouse Museum are about 8 miles east along the Gulf Beach Highway.

What to Like or Not Like about Big Lagoon State Park and Campgrouond

Pros: The Hiking, Nature and Boardwalk Trails. Easy access from Gulf highway, convenient to shopping and many Pensacola area visitor attractions. Modest camping fees and less competition for reservations, compared to Fort Pickens and other popular State Parks.

Cons: The sandy campsites mean you track a lot of sand into your rig. And those sites along the South edge of the campground can be wet. While there are some swimming beaches, they are less attractive than those on the Gulf itself and you have to keep an eye out for Alligators.

Rosamond Johnson Beach
Rosamond Johnson Beach on the Gulf is about 3 miles from the State Park

Things to see and do in the Pensacola area

Shell Mound Campground – Cedar Key, Florida

Our rialta at shell mound campground

RV & Tent Camping: Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge and Shell Mound Park

Can’t find a vacancy at Cedar Key RV Campgrounds? Or you are choking on the prices. Here’s an alternative to check out.

Our favorite place to RV camp when visiting the fun and artsy Gulf Beach Town of Cedar Keys, is the Levy County Shell Mound Park. It is located about 8 miles North and East of the town of Cedar Key in Florida’s Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge.

Shell Mound offers both RV campsites and tent campsites at prices considerably less than the fare in Cedar Key proper. There’s a pair of nice hiking/nature trails and a fishing pier nearby in the Wildlife Refuge and a boat launch for canoes and kayaks. 

Most of Shell Mound’s RV sites have both electricity and water-hookups, but some are electric only and there are a few tent sites with no utilities. There is a full-service washroom/shower building and an RV dump site. The campground also has its own boat launch and a place to park trailers.  The campground managers are on-site during the day and we found themvanc very friendly and helpful.

Beside reasonable price, another outstanding feature of Shell Mound is there are no advance reservations, site occupancy is first come, first served. There’s a 7 day maximum stay, So even during popular times of the year, you might be able to get a site there. The camping fees are reasonable, even with a recent 50% increase.

shell mound campground cedar key florida
Shell Mound Campground
google map shell mound campground
campground – google maps

Since the campground is set within the Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge it is remote, surrounded by woods and is generally quite quiet. The only noise we heard during our stay there was when an airboat launched at the boat landing. Some of the RV sites have a decent slope to them so some leveling blocks would be necessary for these particular sites. The road that circles through the park is paved and many sites are graveled. The camping sites  generally have some shade, and offer adequate separation from neighboring sites. The sites that are electric-only (no water and lower priced) are more open and on grass vs. partially graveled.

sunset shell mound county park
A pretty sunset behind our campsite at Shell Mound County Park

Directions to Shell Mound

From the town of Cedar Key it is about an 8 mile drive to the Shell Mound campground. You go north on Highway 24 about 3 miles, then left on Highway 347 for about 3 miles, and then turn left when you get to Highway 326. The park is near the end of the road.

There’s a short trail near the boat launch that leads out to a spit of land providing a view of the bayou and islands of Suwannee Sound.

Bayou Trail, Shell Mount County Park
A trail behind our campsite led out to this spit of land
surrounded by water where we could watch the sun setting over the Gulf

Nearby Hiking Trails in the Wildlife Refuge

While technically not in the Levy County Park, within walking distance down the road are two interesting hiking/nature trails in the Cedar Key Wildlife Refuge that surrounds the county park.

Review: What to Like and Not Like About the Shell Mound County Campground

Likes

Reasonable Price.  Although the County increased the RV site rate 50% between our stay in 2018 and the recent one in 2020, it remains quite a bit more reasonable than those in or nearer the town of Cedar Key.

Convenient to the attractive Gulf Beach town of Cedar Key. It is less than a 10 mile drive to Cedar Key. Some campers with bikes will bike to town. The only portion where you might encounter any traffic is on Hwy 24 before the Cedar Key bridge. Once in town, you have slower speed limits and a bike path.

The Cedar Keys Nature Area & Hiking. The park is surrounded by the Shell Mound portion of the National Wildlife Refuge. Within walking distance down the dead end road that runs past the campground are the trail heads for two hiking/nature trails within the Refuge. There’s also small park there with boardwalk leading to an observation deck overlooking a portion of the Keys and a canoe/kayak launch area.

First Come, First Served Reservations. We like the fact the park offers no advance reservations. During the winter-spring season, it can be very difficult to get a campsite near a popular place like Cedar Key due to sites being reserved in advance. So the Shell Mound park means we have a chance to score a campsite mid-week at the last minute. During the day there is an office phone # you can call to see if the campground is full or not.

Review: What Not to Like About the Shell Mound County Campground

Airboat Noise. The boat ramp is apparently a popular launching site for locals who own flat bottomed airboats that are driven by huge aircraft propellers. While impressive to see, for those who have never seen on up close, the noise they make when taking off or arriving at the landing is deafening. You’ll most likely be treated to this experience Fridays – Sundays. The noise doesn’t last that long. Mainly it upsets people because it is such a stark contrast to what is otherwise a very peaceful and serene setting.

Sloping or Wet Campsites. Unless you get to the park early enough and/or during a non-busy period, your only site choices will be one of the very sloping campsites (so bring levelers) or parking on one of the low land, grass-covered sites that could get wet with a significant rainfall. So far, we’ve been lucky.

Old Washroom/Showers. While in general we’ve found the bathroom and showers clean, the washroom and showers fixtures are old and showing their age, and the building itself is a rustic cider block construction. But as I said it is clean and we found the hot water came quickly in the showers. 

Shell Mound Camping Rates and Reservation Information:

Shell Mound 2020 Rates

Other Cedar Keys Area RV Campgrounds

If you don’t mind paying a premium and being in a busier, more crowded campground here are your three choices:

More Good RV Campground Options Close enough to Cedar Key

A little further away (29 miles from Cedar Key) is Chiefland, Florida where the are some good RV Park & Camping options. During our previous stays in the Cedar Keys area we have also camped at the Manatee Springs State Park campground which is about 33 miles from the center of town. Manatee Springs has an excellent campground, reasonably-priced and offers other amenities we like. They do offer reservations so if you want to guarantee a camping spot for your visit to Cedar Keys, this is a good option.

Another very good RV camping option in Chiefland is Strawberry Fields RV Campground (see our review), a new facility on the East edge of town.

More Articles on Cedar Key Visitor Attractions:

Walking, Nature & Hiking Trails | Cedar Keys

Boardwalk Shell Mound

In addition to walking around artsy downtown and the cottages in the nearby historic district, Cedar Keys also offers some worthwhile and interesting nature trails within the town. You’d enjoy a nice walk on the Cemetery Point Trail and the Railroad Trestle Trail. Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail This is an easy walk (2/3 … Read more

Natchez Trace Scenic Drive

natchez trace national parkway

Natchez Trace National Parkway National Park

The Natchez Trace Parkway runs from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, about 440 miles. Traveling the Trace is an excellent way to step back in time to an era of the scenic road trip where you take the time to enjoy the trip itself. Trucks and commercial vehicles aren’t allowed on the parkway. Nor are billboards, stop lights, or commercial establishments. Along the roadsides, the human footprint is light, only a changing variety of scenery and topography provided by Mother Nature.

Along the route are numerous historical markers, restored historical sites and exhibits, rest stop parks, picnic areas, hiking trails, and public campgrounds. Within a short distance of the Trace are towns and communities with additional services and attractions, some of them with worthy scenic or historical value in of themselves.

The maximum speed along the Trace is 50 mph. The idea is a stress free, scenic, and enjoyable ride in an auto, RV, motorcycle, or road bike (there’s a special network of rustic campsites reserved for bike riders). A bonus is you can save gas by driving at a comfortable 50 mph without being hassled by drivers behind you.

Natchez Trace Red Buds
Red Buds popping out along the Natchez Trace Parkway


History of the Old Trace

The parkway roughly follows the historic Natchez Trace, a trail whose roots goes back to the 1600s evolving from hunting trails used by the Natchez, Chickasaw, and Choctaw Indians. Around 1700 French explorers and traders established a trading post near the present day Natchez and later Fort Rosalie constructed as the European population in the area expanded. Conflicts with the native Natchez people ensued and by 1735 the Natchez Indian community in the area was essentially wiped out and the village of Natchez began to form.

For the next 50 years European influence expanded in the area between the lower Mississippi valley in Natchez and the Ohio River and Cumberland River valleys in the north.

By 1800 Nashville had become the most significant community in the Kentucky-Tennessee territory. Also by this time a defined trail had taken shape between Natchez and Nashville as an overland return route from farmers and traders who floated their crops and products down the Cumberland, Ohio, and then the Mississippi Rivers to markets in Natchez and New Orleans. With no practical way to navigate their craft back up the Mississippi River, the float boats that carried the cargo were disassembled and the lumber sold. Then the Boatmen had to walk or ride back home.

The Trace was the trail that formed from thousands of travelers following this path. Over time inns (called “stands”) and small communities grew up along this route to serve travelers along the trace. One of these inns, Mount Locust Inn & Plantation, has been restored and is open for daily tours from February through November.

By 1810 an estimated 10,000 Boatmen (called “Kaintucks”) were using the Trace and the two towns at either end (Natchez and Nashville) had become cemented as major communities.

Natchez Trace Articles


About the Natchez Trace Drive (this page)


Travelogue: Natchez Trace Parkway, Part 1


Meriwether Lewis Natchez Trace  Park


Visiting the Historic City of Natchez

natchez trace parkway
There are several pull-offs along the parkway where you can see portions of the original old trace.
Mount Locust, Natchez Trace Parkway
Mount Locust, historic inn on the Natchez Trace

Nearby Places of Interest
Historic Natchez, Mississippi
Shiloh Military Park

The Natchez Trace – Our First National Road

In 1801 President Jefferson authorized construction of a national road along the Trace as a national security measure. Army troops began clearing brush and building bridges along the trail and in a few years a good section of the trail had been improved from a winding, narrow path to a wider more comfortable road for wagons and horses and began attracting numerous travelers in addition to the Boatmen.

From 1812 to 1815 the Trace was a major route used by Andrew Jackson’s Tennessee Volunteers during the War of 1812 and the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. By 1820 the invention of the Steamboat allowed two way travel up and down the Mississippi and Ohio rivers meant the Trace began to lose its main customers. In addition a new road, called Jackson’s Military Road was being constructed. This route cut about one third of the distance between Natchez and Nashville off the original Trace. By 1900, due to improvements in river travel and the competition from more recent roadways, the Trace had reverted to a wilderness state along much of its original course.

A portion of the historic Old Trace trail from Natchez to Nashville

Learn More – Natchez Trace Parkway Travelogue:

Natchez Trace National Parkway Website

Traveling The Modern Natchez Trace Parkway

A Great Road Trip

One of the most scenic and stress free road trips you can take. In the Spring you can catch the blooming Red Buds, Dogwoods, and wildflowers. In the fall beautiful colors as the leaves are changing.

The Natchez Trace Parkway begins north of the city of Natchez (see our article on Visiting historic Natchez, Mississippi), the oldest town on the Mississippi River and the southern terminus of the historic Natchez Trace. The parkway runs 444 miles, through three States, ending south of Nashville, Tennessee.

There are some interesting small towns along the route and hundreds of wayside stops with some sort of scenic or historical interest along the Parkway. Rated by Mike and Jen of RVlifestyle.com as their favorite RV road trip in the US. We agree and highlight below some of our favorite points of interest along the Trace.

The rooms in the old Mount Locust Inn, with period furnishings, are open for viewing.
The rooms in the old Mount Locust Inn, with period furnishings, are open for viewing.

Our Favorite Points of Interest Along the Natchez Trace:

Mount Locust, Milepost 15.5

Traveling north from Natchez, one of the first stops you should make along the Trace is at Mount Locust, milepost 15.5. Back in the day, this was Day 1 on the Boatman’s trip back to the Ohio Valley. The stand was originally constructed as a farm homestead in 1780. But being in the right place at the right time encouraged later owners, the William Ferguson family, to open up a crude inn to serve the growing number of travelers. Eventually an annex was constructed to better meet the need. The Inn has been restored and is open for daily tours from February through November. See link to Mt. Locust Brochure.

Sunken Trace, Milepost 41.5 – At several points along the parkway the “old Trace” intersects with or comes close to the Parkway. At mile marker 41.5 is one of many rest stops where you can walk to and through a portion of the original Trace.

Old Natchez Trace sunken trail

Rocky Springs, Milepost 54.8 – The former community of Rocky Springs is now a park, picnic site and rustic campground. A self-guided trail leads to the location of the former village and to the graveyard and old church that are all that remain of a village that once held over 2000 souls. Map of Rocky Springs Campground & Historical Site

Cypress Swamp, Milepost 122.0 – At mile marker 122 you’ll have an opportunity to stretch your legs with a half-mile loop annotated nature trail through a Cypress and Water Tupelo Swamp. We saw a baby alligator sunning itself on a little island in the swamp pond.

cypress swamp natchez trace
The nature trail begins with a boardwalk through the center of the swamp.

Holly Hill Rest Stop, Mile Marker 154.3 – One of 44 picnic areas along the Trace. There is picnic tables and accessible rest rooms.

Holly Hill Rest Stop, Natchez Trace
Holly Hill Rest Stop, Mile Marker 154.3, one of 44 picnic areas along the Natchez Trace

French Camp, Milepost 180.7 – A “stand” (inn) was established here in 1812 serving travelers along the Trace. Later in 1822 it added a school, which exists to this day. Included in the restored complex, joined by a boardwalk, are a cafe, gift shop, visitor center, log cabin, crafts center, and sorghum making center. An interesting historical stop, an opportunity to stretch your legs, and get a bite to eat.

Link to Historic French Camp Village website

French Camp, Natchez Trace
Blacksmith Shop and Barn of the French Camp
French Camp
The Drane House, an 1845 restored antebellum home is open for tours

Jeff Busby Park, Milepost 193.1 – Named for Mississippi Congressman Thomas Jefferson Busby (whose bill created the Parkway), the park has a visitor exhibit area, a nice picnic area with tables, grills, and parking, a 22 site campground, restrooms, hiking trails, and a mountain top overlook that is one of the highest points in Mississippi.

Jeff Busby Campground & Picnic Area Map – Jeff-Busby-map

Jeff Busby Overlook
The Scenic Overlook picnic area at the Jeff Busby Trace Park.

Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, Tupelo, Mississippi, Milepost 266.0

The Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center has a twelve-minute orientation film, interpretive displays about the natural and cultural history of the Natchez Trace, as well as an Eastern National Bookstore. A park ranger is available from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily (except Christmas Day) to answer any questions you may have. This is also the location to get your passport stamps for the Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, Tupelo National Battlefield, and Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield.

Visitor Center Events Calendar


Visit the Shiloh National Military Park
Exit at Mile Marker 293
Visitor Centers at Corinth &
Shiloh Battlefield


Detour – As of April 4, 2022 a section of the Trace between mile markers 293 and 321
remains closed for repairs. Here is the detour route.


Meriwether Lewis Site Milepost 385.9

This is the largest and most impressive of the 3 campground-parks actually on the Trace. It site has a campground, modern washrooms, picnic areas, some decent hiking trails, and a historical exhibit on famed explorer Meriwether Lewis, including a monument erected at the site of his burial and a replication of the Grinder House, the “Stand” where Lewis stayed over-night on his way back East and mysteriously died of gunshot wounds in the middle of the night. Exhibits tell the story of that evening, plus other significant aspects of Lewis’ history.

Merriweather Lewis Campground
Relaxing at the Meriwether Lewis Campground, Natchez Trace Parkway

While the campground has no utilities it has paved and reasonably level parking areas for RVs. Each wooded site has a picnic table, a fire pit, trash bin, and nice separation from adjacent sites. Like all the National Forest Campgrounds along the trace, it is first come, first serve for campsites so best to get there early in the afternoon or it will be full.

See more photos and info on things to do and see at Meriwether Lewis Park and Campground here.


Camping Along the Natchez Trace

The National Park maintains three improved campgrounds along the Trace (all of which were profiled above): Rocky Springs, Jeff Busby, and Meriwether Lewis. In addition there are several rustic campgrounds reserved for bikers or hikers. Within a few miles of the Trace are both private and public campgrounds with utilities for RVs. This page has links to State Parks convenient to the Trace.

Morning Fog across the Lake at Tishomingo State Park along the Natchez Trace Parkway

More Natchez Trace Links & Publications

National Parks Directory – ScenicPathways

Natchez Trace Articles on Scenic Pathways

Meriwether Lewis Park – Natchez Trace

Meriwether Lewis Park Natchez Trace Parkway

Meriwether Lewis Park, Campground & Monument

The Merriwether Lewis Wayside Stop on the Natchez Trace is our favorite of all the significant points of interest. It is the site of Grinders Stand, made famous due to it being the place where famed explorer Meriwether Lewis died of mysterious circumstances. The Meriwether Lewis monument marks his burial site.

Another attraction of the site is being able to walk a portion of the original Old Natchez Trace that runs through the park. The old trace section also intersects with a network of other trails within this wayside stop.

A third attraction is the largest and most nicely landscaped of the 3 campgrounds that are located on the Trace itself.


Natchez Trace Articles on Scenic Pathways
History-Introduction Natchez Trace
Travelogue: Highlights along The Trace Parkway
Meriwether Lewis Natchez Trace  Park (this page)


Grinders Stand and Meriwether Lewis Last Night

On his way to Washington DC to defend himself against charges of improper expenditures, Meriwether Lewis traveled on a portion of the Trace. On October 10th he stayed overnight at Grinders Stand, a wayside inn on the Trace trail.

During the night gunshots were heard and Lewis was found dead of gunshot wounds. Some reports allege he died at his own hand; others suggest he was murdered. A sad and mysterious end to one of America’s most famous explorers.

Lewis is buried about 200 yards from the old inn and along the original Trace. In 1848 the state of Tennessee erected a monument over the grave site. Some exhibits accompany the replica of Grinders Stand built on the site of the original. Exhibits tell the story of that evening, plus other significant aspects of Lewis’ history. See MLewis-Site-Bulletin

A replica of the original Grinders Stand Inn where Lewis spent his last fateful night.
A replica of the original Grinders Stand Inn where Lewis spent his last night.
Meriwether Lewis Gravesite
Corps of Discovery explorer Meriwether Lewis is buried here along the Old Trace.

Meriwether Lewis Hiking Trails

Old Trace Trail
Old Trace Hiking Trail from the Meriwether Lewis grave site.

There is a four mile loop hiking trail that starts at the Lewis grave site and eventually runs along Little Swan Creek where it intersects with the Old Natchez Trace foot trail. A few other spur trails criss-cross this network. We found walking on the Old Trace trail fairly easy to follow from the grave site to one of the picnic grounds in the park. But based on reports I’ve read some other portions of the hiking trail are less well-traveled and more difficult to follow.

We did a loop following the Old Trace til it intersected with the spur trail to the picnic area and then returned along the road.
We did a loop following the Old Trace til it intersected with the spur trail to the picnic area and then returned along the road.

Meriwether Lewis Campground

Meriwether Lewis campgound
We found a nice level RV site not too far from the washrooms.

Of the three drive-in campgrounds along the Trace, Meriwether Lewis is the largest and most improved. The bathroom building is clean, heated, well lighted with sinks and toilets (not vault toilets). The campground roads and sites are fully paved and the sites are quite level. There’s also a well pump faucet for adding water to your RV. No dump site nor electric service. But otherwise a very well maintained campground with an attractive camping fee – $0.0!

During peak travel times, you may have trouble finding a vacant camping site as this is a very popular stop along the Trace. David Crockett State Park is not too far away and would be an option for those camping or RVing.

Camping Along the Natchez Trace

The National Park maintains three improved campgrounds along the Trace (all of which were profiled above): Rocky Springs, Jeff Busby, and Meriwether Lewis. In addition there are several rustic campgrounds reserved for bikers or hikers. Within a few miles of the Trace are both private and public campgrounds with utilities for RVs. This page has links to State Parks convenient to the Trace.

Natchez Trace Links & Publications


Hot Springs Park Campground

Hot springs naitonal park campground

Review of Gulpha Gorge Campground at Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs Arkansas

The Hot Springs National Park campground is located on the east side of Hot Springs Mountain, in a wooded setting, isolated from the urban area. The Gulpha Gorge creek runs along the edge of the campground and several camp sites overlook the creek.

The Hot Springs Campground is very tidy clean and well-maintained. The roads through the park are fully paved, There are 44 sites with full-hookups, including sewer. All sites have level or close to level paved parking pads. Each site has a concrete picnic table and elevated BBQ grill. There is adequate space between camp sites. Tall trees provide good shade for most sites.

One of the top features we like about the Gulpha Gorge campground is that sites are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. You cannot make reservations in advance. Occupancy is limited to 14 days.

The modern washrooms are well-maintained, but there are no showers. All waste disposal bins are animal proof. There is a RV dump station and fresh water fill station. Other amenities are a day use picnic area and an amphitheater with sturdy bench seating. The park staff occasionally presents programs at the theater.

hot springs campground
Gulpha Gorge Campground, Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs Campground
Hot Springs Campground Map

Hot Springs Hiking Trails

For us a most attractive feature of the campground is the trail head at the Gulpha Gorge Campground has access to the extensive network of trails on Hot Springs Mountain. The trails vary from easy walking trails to more rugged to allow people to progress gradually to more strenuous exercise.

Leading from the campground, the Gulpha Gorge trail goes to the top of the mountain.

One of our favorite day hikes is taking the Gulpha Gorge trail that runs to top of eastern side of Hot Springs Mountain. Part way up is the intersection with the Goat Rock Trail which leads to Goat Rock, an outcropping with a panoramic view east. If you continue on the trail past the Rock, it eventually ends at the top of the Mountain where you can intersect with the Gulpha Gorge trail for your return leg of your hike. A great 90 minute exercise with a number of scenic views.

Jo about to climb the stairs to the Goat Rock overlook.
Great view from the top of Goat Rock.

Another favorite hike is taking the trail all the way to downtown Hot Springs and Bathhouse Row.

Situated in a valley in the Zig-Zag mountain range the city of Hot Springs is surrounded by hills. The Hot Springs National Park (see our article here) begins in the center of the city and encompasses the mountains to the east and west. So only minutes from downtown Hot Springs you can be in the woods several hundred feet above all the hustle and bustle of the city. Hot Springs became a center for physical therapy not only because of its abundant hot springs, but also because an extensive network of hiking trails were built in the hills surrounding the city to provide an exercise program to supplement the hot spring treatment.

Hot Springs National Park Links:

Arkansas Scenic Drives: Highway 7 Scenic Byway

–Ross

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park Springs

Hot Springs National Park – Camping, Hiking, and Scenic Attractions

Located near the southern end of Arkansas Scenic Highway 7, Hot Springs National Park is located in the center of the city of Hot Springs while also set in the mountains surrounding the town.

Situated in a valley in the Zig-Zag mountain range, Hot Springs is surrounded by hills. The National Park begins in the center of the city and encompasses the mountains to the east and west. So only minutes from downtown Hot Springs you can be in the woods several hundred feet above all the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hot Springs became a center for physical therapy not only because of its abundant hot springs, but also because an extensive network of hiking trails were built in the hills surrounding the city to provide an exercise program to supplement the hot springs spa treatments. The trails vary from easy walking trails to more rugged to allow people to progress gradually to more strenuous exercise.

The Promenade Walk runs above Bath House Row and overlooks downtown.

Hiking and Backpacking Trails

The primary trail network is on Hot Springs Mountain with downtown Hot Springs and Bathhouse Row anchoring the western foot of the mountain. The Gulpha Gorge park and campground anchors the eastern foot of the mountain.

The trail to the top of Hot Springs Mountain from Gulpha Gorge
Map of hiking trails hot springs national park
Hiking Trails between the Gulpha Gorge Campground and Bathhouse Row

In all there are 23 hiking trails but since many intersect with one another there are many more route options than the 23. The Hot Springs Mountain trails in turn link to other trails on adjacent mountains and hillsides: North Mountain, West Mountain, Music Mountain, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

The only campground in the park is at Gulpha Gorge so overnight backpackers would simply plan a route that would return them to Gulpha Gorge by the end of the day. Day hikers have the choice of several trail heads sprinkled throughout the park. Here’s a list of the hiking and walking trails from the Park Website.

Bath House Row

The “Hot Springs” and the spa bath houses offer both a historical  and medicinal attractions. The National Park Visitor Center is located in BathHouse Row – see our article here within one of the historic bathhouses – The Fordyce. The Fordyce Bath House has been restored to be a museum of how it was in the hay day of the Bath Houses. Free self-guided tours are available as well as narrated tours and a film on the history of the bath houses. There are a few bath houses remaining in operation and others have been restored but re-purposed for other uses.

Bathhouse Row Hot Springs National Park
Bath House Row Downtown Hot Springs

Gulpha Gorge Campground at Hot Springs National Park

When visiting Hot Springs, we generally stay at the Gulpha Gorge campground in Hot Springs National Park (see our review here). Located on the east side of Hot Springs Mountain, it is convenient to downtown Hot Springs, yet in a wooded setting, isolated from the urban area. It is an attractive campground among tall pine trees along Gulpha Creek.

Scenic Mountain Drives & Overlooks

Non-hikers can drive to the top of Hot Springs and West Mountain summits. There are several scenic lookouts along the drives as well as some picnic areas. At the top of Hot Springs Mountain is the 10 story Hot Springs Tower with an observation deck at the top. (The Tower is a commercial operation that charges a fee to visit the observation deck.)

Other Scenic Drives. Another scenic drive is south of Hot Springs to the top of Jack Mountain. West of Hot Springs is the Quachita Mountains and Lake Quachita. A nice day trip is a scenic 80 mile loop around Lake Quachita out to Mt. Ida and back to Hot Springs.

West Mountain, Hot Springs, AR
At the top of West Mountain looking towards Music Mountain, Hot Springs, AR
West Mountain, Hot Springs Tower
View from the top of West Mountain looking towards the Hot Springs Tower

Dining and Entertainment

Hot Springs National Park is quite large – 5500 acres – and almost completely surrounded by the city of Hot Springs. The centerpiece of the park – Bathhouse Row – stretches along the south side of Central Avenue. Across the street from Bathhouse Row, on the north side, is the center of the dining and entertainment district of downtown Hot Springs.

Restaurant Review: Steinhaus Keller

Down the street a little west of Bathhouse Row is one of our favorite Hot Springs restaurants and pubs. Formerly known as the Brau Haus which closed sometime in 2013, it has been re-opened at the same location as Steinhaus Keller. It is located in the lower level of a three or four story atrium in an area called Spencer’s Corner. Being below street level, it is not easily seen from the sidewalk. Above Steinhaus Keller and more prominently signed and easily noticed is Brick House Grill, known locally as offering the best burgers in town. Next time we are in town we’ll have to try them out.

Steinhaus Keller German Restaurant Hot Springs
You can dine outside in the atrium, inside at the bar overlooking the atrium, or in their intimate dining room

But on our most recent visit in late March 2014, we had our palates set for some good German food. I had their Sauerbraten and Jo had the Wienerschnitzel – both excellent meals, including our side dishes. The wait service was attentive, friendly, and professional. They offered a very good selection of beers from Germany, Austria, and eastern Europe. Jo had a black lager and I had an Oktoberfest. We noticed that the guy behind the bar was the same as when we ate there a few years ago and then it seemed he had an ownership interest in it. Don’t know the history on why the Brau Haus closed, but based on this recent visit we give the current iteration under a new name a strong recommendation.

More Hot Springs Restaurant Reviews

More Links to Hot Springs Attractions:

–Ross



Fort Pickens National Park Review

Camping and Visiting Fort Pickens & Gulf Islands National Seashore Park – Pensacola Beach, Florida

Top 10 things to do at Fort Pickens Gulf Islands Park & Campground?

  • Go beach combing, swimming, and sunbathing on sparsely populated white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Tour the historic Fort Pickens and Island Gun Batteries and learn about the military history of the Fort and of Santa Rosa Island.
  • Hike the several hiking and nature trails in the park.
  • Bird-Watching. Over 280 species of birds have been identified on the gulf barrier islands.
  • Visit the Gulf Islands Discovery Center to explore exhibits on the natural environment, wildlife, and history of the Fort Pickens Area.
  • Bike the roads in the park and bike the 6 mile road between the park and the fun things to do in Pensacola Beach.
  • Camping in a tent or RV in one of the full-service campsites or in a group the more rustic backcountry sites. (See our Fort Pickens Campground Review here)
  • Like Fishing? Fort Pickens does have a fishing pier that extends out into Pensacola Bay.
  • If staying in the campground, enjoy numerous attractions in the nearby vacation community of Pensacola Beach and the larger city of Pensacola across the bay from the park. At the end of this article are several links to interesting things to see and do in the area.
  • Watch the famed Blue Angels Flight team from the Fort Pickens Pier


Slide Show Top Fort Pickens Attractions

  • Historic Fort Pickens
    The 1834 historical fort is the main visitor attraction for non-campers. The Fort along with the island's numerous gun batteries has an interesting military history from before the civil war through World War II.
  • Fort Pickens Campground
    The popular campground at Fort Pickens will accommodate larger RVs as well as smaller units and tents
  • Fort Pickens Gulf Beach
    The uncrowded pristine beaches at Fort Pickens are among Floridas top rated.
  • Fort Pickens Hiking Trails
    Hiking/biking Trail from the Fort to the Campground
  • Biking at Fort Pickens
    Bikes are useful for riding from the campground to one of the beaches within the park as well as on the hiking/biking trails in the park. Also useful to ride the 6 miles into the town of Pensacola Beach (speed limit on the park road is 25 mph and is not heavily traveled)

Pensacola Beach Santa Rosa Island
If you like the excitement of ocean resort towns, Pensacola Beach is less than
15 minutes from the Fort Pickens campground

Driving Directions to Fort Pickens Historical Site from Pensacola, Florida

To get to Fort Pickens from Pensacola on the mainland, you have to take the bridge across the bay to Gulf Breeze and then take another bridge to Pensacola Beach on Santa Rosa Island.

Touring Historic Fort Pickens

Historic Fort Pickens
The 1834 historical fort is the main visitor attraction for non-campers.
The Fort along with the island’s numerous gun batteries
has an interesting military history from before the civil war through World War II.

History buffs, particularly those interested in US military history from the War of 1812 to World War II, will also enjoy the experience of touring the old Fort Pickens and several gun batteries that exist throughout the park. Fort Pickens also has an interesting museum, featuring interactive exhibits on the natural and historic features of the Gulf Islands National Lakeshore.

The restored 1834 Fort and the assortment of many shoreline battery units added to the complex in World War II are one of the major attractions of the park. Go here to learn about the fascinating military history of this fort and its companion Fort Barrancas which is situated across the bay.


Fort Pickens Campground

Located on the remote western end of the island, Fort Pickens Recreation Area & Campground is the largest unit of the Gulf Island National Seashore. It is a great spot for people who enjoy sun and surf, relaxing by the ocean or walking the beach in an uncrowded, natural setting. The Fort Pickens campground is set about a half mile east of the old fort, nestled between the remains of several of the coastal artillery gun batteries that were constructed during World War II. It offers over 200 sites, with about 170 with utilities for RVs.

See our Review & more information on Camping at Fort Pickens here

fort pickens map
Fort Pickens map (from Google Maps)

Alternative Campground. Times when we’ve not been able to get into the park due no sites available, we often have been able to find a spot at Big Lagoon State Park at the western end of Pensacola.

Fort Pickens Park Hiking Trails

There are hiking trails from the campground to the Fort Pickens restoration and museum, from the campground to the sand beaches facing the gulf, to the beaches on Pensacola Bay, between the two major camping areas, to some of the World War II Gun Battery encampments, and to picnic pavilions in the park. And there are several miles of sand beach to hike!

fort pickens hiking trails
hiking from the campground to the old Fort

Fort Pickens Discovery Center

The Fort Pickens museum offers exhibits on the Gulf Islands eco system and the natural environment, wildlife, and history of the Fort Pickens Area.

fort pickens discovery center
Gulf Islands Seashore Museum on the grounds of the Fort Pickens encampment


Biking around Fort Pickens

Fort Pickens is a great spot for biking if you are camping at one of the Fort Pickens Campgrounds. The sand hiking trails are generally firm enough to bike on and the extensive network of roads within the park have low speed limits and are lightly traveled. Some of the beach recreation areas are far enough away from the campground that you’d want to either drive or bike to them.

When we stay at the campground, we usually make at least one bike trip into Pensacola Beach to browse around town or get a bite to eat at one of the top Pensacola Beach seafood restaurants

Biking at Fort Pickens
Bikes are useful for riding from the campground to one of the beaches within the park as well as on the hiking/biking trails in the park. Also useful to ride the 6 miles into the town of Pensacola Beach (speed limit on the park road is 25 mph and is not heavily traveled)

Fort Pickens & Gulf Island National Seashore Links:

Other Top Attractions in Pensacola and Pensacola Beach

Bathhouse Row – Hot Springs National Park

hot springs national park bath houses

Hot Springs National Park – Visiting Historic Bathhouses Row & Attractions

Seven of the original historic Hot Springs bathhouses along Bathhouse Row remain and have been restored or in the process of restoration. Some offer classic hot springs spa experiences, others are open for tours, and some have been repurposed for other uses (like a restaurant or brew house).

Hot Springs Fordyce Bathhouse
The restored Fordyce Bath House serves as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park

The historic Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the National Park Visitor Center. In addition to information on the park and activities, the various rooms and services of the original bathhouse have been preserved and restored and can be seen in a self-guided tour. Also a small theater with a 15 minute movie presentation of the bathhouse era. Touring the bathhouse facilities can take from 15 minutes to an hour depending on how much time one wants to spend with each exhibit.

Touring the Fordyce provides a fascinating look into an era and the forerunner of the todays resort spas. The facilities served a wide variety of patrons from those with quite serious maladies to the wealthy leisure class looking to be pampered and enjoying what was essentially a club-like ambience.

bATHHOUSE rOW hOT SPRINGS
Looking North down Bathhouse Row, Lamar Bathhouse in the foreground

Open Bathhouses on Bathhouse Row

Quapaw Bath House Hot Springs
Quapaw Bath House, Bathouse Row Hot Springs National Park

Two of the bathhouses currently serve patrons. The Quapaw Bathhouse operates much as it did back years ago, offering both a large communal bathing pool as well as private bathing tubs. Their principal appeal is to those who are looking to soak in the hot, mineral rich waters. The second operating bath house, the Buckstaff Bathhouse, offers a more modern version and a complete array of spa services. In addition to soaking in a tub, they offer loafa scrubbing sponges and massages.

We decided to try out one of Bathhouses. We chose Quapaw because it had a package that fit our needs -a private spa for two. While the large public spa pools are refurbished versions of the pools from the 1920s our private spa room was somewhat newer and more modern – basically a Jacuzzi for two. So we didn’t step back 90 years to sample a replica of what had been in the heyday of Quapaw. But none-the-less the spa was soothing – you could feel something different in the water – it wasn’t the same as our hot tub at home. But afterword Jo and I decided next time we’d have a go at the public pool because you could move around more and get a little water aerobic exercise. And the public spa is a from the original bath house.

Private Spa Quapaw Bath House
Jo enjoying the private spa at the Quapaw Bath House
Quapaw Bath House Hot Springs
The Public Bath at Quapaw Bath House

Other bathhouses are being converted to other uses. The Ozark Bathhouse is the home of the Hot Springs Museum of Contemporary Art. The Hale Bathhouse offers a café and bookstore and now offers Hotel accommodations. The Superior Bathhouse is now the only Brewery in a National Park and the only brewery in the world to utilize thermal spring water in their beer.  The Lamar Bathhouse serves as the parks official gift shop, bookstore, and souvenir shop.

The Hot Springs National Park’s website offers some interesting tidbits on the history of Bathhouse Row plus links to learning more about each of the current bathhouses.

HALE bATHHOUSE
Jo and I enjoyed a cup of coffee and scones in the relaxing lobby of the Hale Bathhouse

The Promenade walk &  Hot Springs

The bathhouses are set in an attractive landscaped park against the base of Hot Springs Mountain where up to 20 springs perculate out of the ground. The street in front of the bathhouses originally was Hot Springs creek, formed from the numerous springs eminating from the mountain. The creek still exists but now it runs in a tunnel underneath Central Avenue.

Hot Springs of Hot Springs Mountain
One of the hot springs flowing out of Hot Springs Mountain

A few of the springs have been left untouched, flowing out of the rock and cascading into pools of water, so visitors can see how they looked years ago. However 44 of the springs are now routed to reservoirs. Some of these provide the water sources for the bathhouses. Three fountains are located in the bathhouse row park, each of them with several spigots for filling up water jugs. The minerals in the water are believed by many to be healthful to drink as well as for bathing and soaking. The water is uncontaminated as it boils up from deep within the earth, estimated to be 4000 feet below the surface. Scientists estimate that the water being drunk today originally fell as rainwater over 3000 years ago!

Hot Springs Grand Promenade
The Grand Promenade runs above Bathhouse Row. In the right foreground is a portion of the Tufa Trail, one of many graduated difficulty walking and hiking paths along the scenic Hot Springs Mountain

The Promenade is a tiled and landscaped walkway that runs along the hillside behind and above the bathhouses. At several points along the walkway one can view the active springs coming out of the ground. Numerous walking and hiking trails intersect with or cross the Promenade. These trails and walkways were constructed as part of the therapy plan of the spas. They cover a wide range of difficulty. The Promenade is the most gentle walkway and is handicapped accessible. Other trails go up the mountain or across the side hills of the mountain. Some are paved and have staircases, others are graveled and several are well-worn dirt trails through dense woods. In the 1920s Dr. Max Oertel designed the original network to provide spa patients an increasing level of difficulty. They could start out on short and relatively level paths and as their endurance and strength increased progress to steeper and more lengthy trails.

Arlington Lawn at Hot springs National Park
Red Buds in bloom near a hot springs pool in the Arlington Lawn of Hot Springs National Park
Tufa Terrace Trail, Hot Springs National Park
Tufa Terrace Trail, Hot Springs National Park

Gulpha Gorge Campground & Hiking Trails – The extensive network of hiking trails also connects downtown to the park’s Gulpha Gorge Campground which is on the other end of Hot Springs Mountain.

Other Attractions & Things to See and Do in Hot Springs National Park – Scenic Drives, Restaurants, Hiking and Nature Trails, etc.

More Hot Springs Travel and Attractions Links:

101 Things to see and do in Arkansas

–Ross ross@scenicpathways.com

Fall Color Minnesota North Shore

Scenic Fall Color Report along Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior While this fall color travelogue was originally published a few years ago, it presents a reasonably typical experience for fall color leaf peppers during the last week in September. Ross here reporting from the Red Mug Coffee House in Superior, Wisconsin on Sunday, September … Read more

Nature Trails Cedar Key Wildlife Refuge

sunset cedar keys national wildlife refuge

Shell Mound Nature Area Hiking Trails People visiting the picturesque island town of Cedar Key who enjoy hiking and nature trails should visit the Shell Mound unit of the Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge less than 10 miles from Cedar Key proper. Within walking distance of Shell Mound County Park & Campground is the Trailhead for … Read more

Fall Color Effigy Mounds

Effigy Mounds Park Fall Color Scene
There were some nice splashes of fall color in mid-October at Effigy Mounds National Park

Effigy Mounds National Park – Fall Color Hikes

Located on the Iowa side of the Upper Mississippi Great River Road, Effigy Mounds is a popular fall color attraction due to its mature mixed hardwood forest, its well-maintained and annotated nature/history trails, and its elevated scenic views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs. An added attraction is its founding feature: the hundreds of Indian Burial Mounds and its educational displays on the ancient Mounds culture.

We picked the second weekend in October for our visit since during the same weekend was the McGregor Arts & Crafts Festival (see our earlier post). There was more color in the foliage than the same time last year and it was a beautiful fall day. However if your aim is to catch the ultimate “peak” of color, it looks like the second half of October is the best time to catch the most vibrant colors along this part of the Mississippi River. There were also festivals going on this weekend in LaCrosse, Wisconsin and Winona, Minnesota so River Road travelers could catch several fall festivals plus some fall color on this particular weekend. If you wait til the following weekend, however, you can enjoy some fall color and Prairie Du Chien’s Oktoberfest.

Effigy Mounds at Effigy Mounds National Monument Park
Nature Trail Effigy Mounds National Park
Effigy Mounds Trail

Fall Attractions along the Wisconsin-Minnesota Great River Road

More Posts on Effigy Mounds

See hiking trail maps, more pictures, and other information on visiting Effigy Mounds at our earlier post on Effigy Mounds National Park.

And you can see still more fall pictures from a visit a few years ago here: Fall visit to Effigy Mounds on our Quilting Pathways website

Ross

Fall Festival Great River Road

McGregor Fall Arts and Crafts Festival

Attractions in this post: McGregor, Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park, Prairie Du Chien Golf Course

Fall colors were starting to break out along the Mississippi River and a perfect weather forecast for the weekend encouraged Jo and I to head to McGregor, Iowa for their Arts & Crafts fall event.

McGregor Iowa’s Art and Craft Festival, second weekend in October

McGregor Fall Color. Since we were last in McGregor-Marquette area in the fall a few more of McGregor’s historic old buildings have gotten remodeled and some new enterprises now occupying them. The town is full of antique shops, artisan studios, pubs, and gift shops . . . most of them stretched along the main street that runs from the river front up the hill to out of town. Originally settled in 1837 as a ferry boat landing to cross the river to Prairie Du Chien, the community grew fast and was incorporated as a town in 1847. It retains its original river town roots in its grain elevator and dock, which was active with the fall harvest the weekend we were there. But its restored downtown buildings and interesting shops make it a fun place to visit.

McGregor Iowa Antique Shops
One of the many antique shops in “antique” buildings in McGregor
McGregor Iowa mainstreet
Main street McGregor has retained and restored many of its old commercial buildings

Our favorite dining spot, the Beer & Bratz Garden, was closed for a few days due to a death in the family. We missed having a sandwich and Leinie’s on their deck that overlooks the river.  As an alternative, we tried dinner at the Old Man River Brew Pub but we found it disappointing in many respects. So unfortunately no restaurant review here on that establishment. 🙂 The Cafe McGregor looks like a nice place; has an attractive outdoor patio. Have to try them next time we are in town.

McGregor Log Cabiin
A few structures like this log cabin date back to the 1840s and the founding of the town

There were spots of nice color on the hillside behind McGregor but we didn’t find the fall color along the river as we expected. Some trees had lost their leaves while others hadn’t changed much. If the leaves hold on, there still should be some halfway decent color towards the last half of October. Even though we missed peak color, it was still a very nice weekend to be out of doors along the Mississippi doing things whether it be hiking, leaf peeping, or touring the shops and pubs in McGregor and its nearby neighboring towns of Marquette and Prairie Du Chien.

McGregor Iowa
Not quite Peak Color on the hillside behind downtown McGregor

When we are in the area we usually do some hiking at nearby Effigy Mounds National Park as its mature forest offers some great color and it also has some very good scenic overlooks of the river. But the park was closed due to the government financial and political wrangling. This winter we hope to return to do some snowshoeing at the park when it reopens.

Pikes Peak Camping & Hiking

We lucked out and found an vacant campsite at Pikes Peak State Park located on one of the high bluffs above McGregor. Most of the 77 sites offer electrical hookups for Rvs with about a dozen suitable only for tent camping. There is a RV dump station and a clean, modern washroom and bath facility. Once we checked in we found out one reason the park was so full on an October Thursday: very reasonable campsite fees. Amenities include a day use picnic shelter, a well outfitted camp store and concession, some interesting hiking trails, and among the best scenic overlooks of the Upper Mississippi River. It is located only about two miles from town.

Here’s a few pictures of Pikes Peak.

Mississippi River Overlook, Pikes Peak
Looking upstream on the Mississippi River from Pikes Peak. Marquette-Prairie du Chien bridge in the background
Pikes Peak State Park River Overlook
The main scenic overlook of the Mississippi River Valley from Pikes Peak State Park

Prairie Du Chien Country Club Golf Course Review.

While we in the area I took an opportunity to squeeze in nine holes of golf at the Prairie Du Chien Country Club. It’s a nice little course and not too expensive. I will return to do 18 holes next time. Most of the fairways are tree-lined, with some thicker woods bordering some. About 2/3 rds of the holes are rolling hills, some with dramatic terrain changes. A few relatively level holes as well. I walked the course with little trouble. There were some challenging holes but no gimmicks. The fairways were lush and well maintained, the greens in good shape and relatively fast. The clubhouse is old and shows its age, but everything was clean. Has a small pro shop, a dining room and a bar, with an expansive deck overlooking the course. From the blue tees the course runs 6222 yards, with a slope and rating of 69.9/119.

A few pictures of the golf course.

Golfiing at Prairie du Chien
Well manicured fairways were typical of Prairie du Chien Country Club’s golf course
There are some dramatic terrain changes on some holes of the Prairie du Chien golf course

Our Rialta motor home will be soon put to bed for the winter so the next time we are at the Mississippi it will be winter for some snowshoeing.

Happy Trails,

Roscoe

St Croix Falls Interstate Park

St Croix Falls Interstate Park – Fall Color

Scenic view of Interstate Park Gorge of the St. Croix National Scenic River
View of the St. Croix River Gorge from the Summit Rock Hiking Trail. Click image for a larger view

Interstate Park, a cooperative effort of Wisconsin, Minnesota and the National Park Service, is located on the St. Croix Wild and National Scenic River which forms part of the state line dividing the northern part of Wisconsin and Minnesota south of Duluth. It is actually two parks. There is the Wisconsin Interstate Park (St. Croix, Wisconsin) on the east side of the river and the Minnesota Interstate Park (Taylor Falls, Minnesota) located on the west bank. It is located about 60 miles north, along the Great River Road extension from Prescott, Wisconsin. The best route is to cross the river at Prescott and drive along the Minnesota side of the St. Croix River to Taylor Falls.

At Prescott the St. Croix River joins the Mississippi doubling the size of the Great River. At this point the Mississippi River Road leaves the Wisconsin-Minnesota border and heads towards the St. Paul, Minnesota. If you are driving the Great River Road, we recommend continuing along the shores of the St. Croix as it is a more scenic drive and you’ll not see anything as spectacular as the St. Croix River Gorge if you stayed on the Mississippi Road and continued on to St. Paul.

Our favorite season for Interstate Park is fall. The dramatic cliffs and formations of the Dalles of the St. Croix make it an outstanding scenic area. In fall its beauty is supplemented by terrific fall color displays. The St. Croix River Valley with its mixture of oaks, maples, birch, hickory, ash and many other species typical of a northern hardwoods forest provide an abundance of hues of reds, golds, and oranges.

Some Pictures – Click on image for a larger view

Fall color drive in Wisconsin's St. Croix Interstate Park
A scenic fall drive through Wisconsin’s Interstate Park
hiking trail in St. Croix Interstate Park
Walking along a wooded hiking trail in St. Croix Interstate Park
Dalles of the St. Croix River, National Interstate Park
Looking down the Dalles of the St. Croix & the Angle Rock from the Pothole Trail
Angle Rock Bridge St. Croix National Park
A close-up of the The Angle Rock bridge on the Minnesota side of the St. Croix

Interstate Park Recreational and Camping Facilities and Attractions

The parks are open all year. In the winter on the Wisconsin side there are 12 miles of cross-country skiing/snowshoeing trails; on the Minnesota side no x-c trails but they do offer some snowshoeing trails. Other times of the year Wisconsin offers 12 hiking trails totaling about 8 miles, whereas the Minnesota side has 6 trails, some of which include very unique geological formations. The parks are most popular in the summer offering rock climbing, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, swimming, and camping.

The Wisconsin side has the largest campground sites (2 areas) and has recently added a number of RV electric hookup sitets. The Minnesota park side also offers RV hookups. RV users on the Wisconsin side who “dry camp” will have water and a dump station near the ice age center. See our links at the bottom of the page for maps and other information on recreational and educational attractions offered by the Interstate Parks.



History of St. Croix River

The unique dalles, potholes, and cliffs are the result of several earthquakes and lava flows occuring over eons combined with the thawing, about 10, 000 years ago, of Glacial Lake Duluth. When its massive ice dam (located south of the current city of Superior, Wisconsin near Solon Springs) broke the meltwaters carved out the current St. Croix River valley. Only very resistant basalts from the lava flows were able to partially withstand the torrent and the unique geological formations were the result.

The original waterfalls and rapids which were the original St. Croix Falls are now buried underneath the “lake” created by the St. Croix Hydroelectric Dam located about one half mile north of the bridge. Above the dam the river is wider, more quiet, and lake-like. Below the dam the river runs faster with some rapids.

The outstanding scenery and geological formations led to a joint effort by Wisconsin and Minnesota to preserve the area for the use of the public. Established between 1895 and 1900 it was the nations first cooperative park established by two states. Because the St. Croix River, which divides the two state parks, is part of the National Wild and Scenic River system and the park is also part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve recreation passes of the National Park Service are honored at Interstate Park. Also each state honors the annual and day pass stickers of the other state. Staying at the northside Wisconsin campground it is only a short hike to the bride to walk across to the nature and hiking trails on the Minnesota side or to downtown Taylor Falls for that matter. If you stay at the Minnesota campground, you may need to drive your car to visit the Wisconsin side as it is a 1.5 mile hike just to get to the bridge.


Another National Parks along the Upper Mississippi River you might enjoy visiting:

Hiking Trails, Scenic Views, Native History Effigy Mounds National Park

Firepoint Overlook, Effigy Mounds National Park
Many great views of the Mississippi River from the bluff top Effigy Mounds hiking and nature trails
visitor center exhibits Effigy Mounds National Park
Kids and Mom enjoying some hands-on exhibits in the Effigy Mounds Visitor Center

See our National Parks Resource page for more ScenicPathways National Parks profiles.

Roscoe