But there is a toilet and running water. Group Camp #1 has a number of smaller sites and is better suited to RV groups or pop-up campers. Maplewood, MN. Fishing at Afton State Park. Already, biological surveys have found a healthy array of aquatic invertebrates to serve as a food source for these fish – larval insects such as mayflies, dragonflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and craneflies. Amenities: Accessible picnic shelter, Accessible visitor center, Accessible yurt... Baker Park Reserve park. The trails are perfect for hikers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. Amenities: Accessible fishing pier, Accessible picnic shelter, Accessible restroom... Banning State Park park. Gilbertsville, NY. Boaters must obtain a boat permit at the park office before putting the boat in the water. We walked the cross country skiing trails and they are quite extensive. Horseback Riding . Read my tips for visiting Afton State Park below. Afton State Park offers some of the best opportunities around the Twin Cities area for the outdoor adventurers all-year long, including geocaching, hiking (also has a 1.5 mile plowed walking trail in winter), biking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, cross country skiing, fishing… They should be ashamed of themselves. Trout currently do not use the stream due to the silt that covers the stream bed. We wanted to try the camper cabins at a Minnesota State Park. In the winter it becomes the trail center, where cross country skiers and snowshoers can warm up and socialize. It’s also the most rustic campground in the 7-county metro area. LSF Member. We sat on the benches and watched the river for awhile and enjoyed the breeze. Oxford, NY. You deserve it! Welcome to the Afton State Park virtual tour! During the winter, Afton State Park offers 18 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails and keeps its water and toilets available. There is varied terrain and you can take an easy... Beautiful State park on the St. Croix minutes from MSP, Ask Veni-vidi-vicidotcom about Afton State Park, Hotels near Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center, Hotels near University of Wisconsin - River Falls, Hotels near University of Wisconsin, River Falls, Hotels near Dakota County Technical College, Hotels near Minnesota School of Cosmetology, Hotels near Globe University/Minnesota School of Business, Historic Downtown Hastings: Tickets & Tours‎, Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center: Tickets & Tours‎, Spring Lake Park Reserve: Tickets & Tours‎, St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park: Tickets & Tours‎. Here you will see wildflowers and grasses in … Afton State Park campers who also enjoy a bit of water activity will be happy to hear that the St. Croix River runs right through the park. In the middle is the lower picnic area and beach. Spend a few hours on the trails. Oliver Charley was a well-known early settler and conservationist in the area. Either end of the trail leads up the river valley, providing challenging loops through a variety of habitats. This was our first visit and we loved it. Start new topic; Recommended Posts. Lake Afton does not require a permit to fish; however, a state fishing license is required. You don’t even need to leave the Twin Cities to experience this historic state park! Afton State Park was established in 1969 for visitors to experience unique natural features and enjoy outdoor recreation. $7 entrance fee per car This boat dock provides access to the lower picnic area from the St. Croix River. Numerous north-facing slopes in the park provide excellent habitat for a variety of ferns. For information on the state’s response, visit the Department of Health website. The visitor center has a "real" bathroom. The trail there is a little steep and had some ruts, but it wasn't bad. Outdoor News Store. Species Rating Size Baits, Method & Location Zebra Mussels Adult Zebra Mussels were found 7/31/08 at Lake Afton. From White Bear Lake. Montrose, PA. Gilbert Lake State Park. All skill levels welcome. Give a Gift. The Afton Alps project will create ideal habitat for the stream’s namesake native brook trout, as well as smaller fish including sculpin, white suckers, creek chubs, brook sticklebacks, and pearl dace. It's about a half mile walk on a paved path from the parking lot. This is one of three bridges remaining from the old railroad line that once ran along the river to Stillwater. DNR RESPONSE TO COVID-19: For details on adjustments to DNR services, visit this webpage. The staff at the office were super helpful and there is a golf course and of course Afton Alps is there. The park is located on the St. Croix River. We hope it prompts you to visit the park in person sometime soon. There are also snowshoeing trails. Silly me, I … We stayed at the Big Blue Stem Camper Cabin and have been to Jay Cooke which we enjoyed more as they had more ammenities, but a much farther drive from MSP. Kinnickinnic State Park. Hello I'm New 'we have more fun' I Share On FishingMN; 0 8 posts; Location: st. paul, mn, 55104, usa; Share; Posted May 11, 2008. The picnic area features a shelter, fire rings, and pedestal grills. Saint Paul, MN. What was once dubbed as the best-kept secret, Afton State Park ’s proximity to St Paul has become a favorite for hikers, trail runners, fishers and campers. Fishing Spots Near Afton MN. Educational sites, Farms, Nature & Wildlife Areas. Afton State Park is located in the St. Croix River Valley, surrounded by woods and prairies. The park has a lot of variety and options for activities! more. The Prairie Walk interpretive trail, oak savannas and wooded river valley offer an interesting contrast of wildlife habitats. It is located in a shallow, calm section of the river, and is marked with buoys in the summer. Afton State Park is located at 6959 Peller Ave. South Hastings, MN. Willow River State Park. Bainbridge, NY. Some snowshoes available for rent ($6/person). Afton State Park How To's, Illinois ... A Minnesota DNR expert shows how to master six essential knots for fishing, boating, hunting, and camping. No showers and you have to do a lot of hiking to appreciate this park. 35 reviews of Afton State Park "I'm still trying to figure out how after having lived in the Cities for most of my life I had never once come to the Afton State Park (it's just south of Stillwater on the St. Croix River and less than 30 minutes from the 'burb you know I love2hate: Woodbury). There is water from this solar pump, and firewood is available at a central location in the campground. See why Afton State Park in Minnesota is one of our favorite local state parks throughout the year. Current land use practices have greatly improved the quality of this former trout stream. Main body of water - 40 mph (after sunset, the speed limit on Lake Afton is 5 MPH, or No Wake Speed) Fishing boats must be operated at a no-wake speed, with running lights on after sunset and before sunrise. In addition, opportunities for fishing, hunting, nature observation and primitive camping abound. © 2020 Minnesota DNR | Equal opportunity employer |, Call 651-296-6157 or 888-MINNDNR (646-6367), Parks and Trails resource management program. Trails traverse remnant and restored prairies, wind down deep ravines and rise up to the grassy ridgetops and bluffs overlooking the scenic St. Croix River. Interpretive displays in the reception area provide an introduction to the operations and resources at Afton State Park. Afton State Park . You can experience and see so much. Although the parking lot was full we had no problem... My husband and I went here for a nice long hike. Hiking. Amenities: Accessible camper cabin, Accessible campsite, Accessible fishing pier... Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Par... park. The tall, golden brown grass in this photo is Big Bluestem, a native grass that once covered vast areas of the west. The rugged, rolling landscape of this park provides excellent hiking and skiing opportunities with scenic overlooks of the St. Croix River. I want to know a couple things. The zebra mussels reproduce during the warmer summer months and veligers (larval zebra mussels) are present in the water column. This program is made possible by funds from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. This spectacular view of the St. Croix river valley is only a short 300-yard walk from the main parking lots. I have caught many Whitebass down there. Where is the best place to park? When not being used by boaters it is very popular for fishing. It is an old railroad grade, so it is safe from the high water and flooding that occurs each spring along the river. Hastings, MN. Flickr / Doug Kerr. Joined: 02/17/2010. Robert V. Riddell State Park . Bowman Lake State Park. Sedgwick County Lake Afton Park offers its facilities and services to men and women of all ages, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, religious and political affiliations, national origins, and persons with disabilities. read more, My husband and I went here for a nice long hike. Chenango Valley State Park. The forest has a multiple-use trail that runs from east to west in the northern part of the forest. This riverside trail follows almost three miles of old railroad bed. Afton State Park #1. I plan to lindy rig with a crawler on 1 pole and a #5 shad rap yellow or perch in color on the other. Wakefield Park. Bring a … I have never been there myself but I hear good things about it from a buddy. Afton State Park in Hastings, Minnesota: 1 reviews, 20 photos, & 0 tips from fellow RVers. If you’re ready to brave the Minnesota winter, Afton State Park will welcome you with open (parka-protected) arms. St.PaulRiverRat. Copes Corners Park. For the uninitiated, that means you’ll park your car in the lot, then pack your gear up to a mile to your site! The park offers visitors a swimming beach, backpack campsites and a visitor center with … Afton, DeKalb County’s largest forest preserve (316 acres), acquired as a worn-out farm in 1973, was developed as a forest preserve during the 1970’s and 1980’s. He built what was known as the "Honeymoon" cabin on this site as a second home, and this was his view. Afton State Park This park has a variety of different terrains such as prairies and bluffs so you can take your children hiking. Campground Details: $, 24 sites, All Year, No RVs, All ages, Tents Only Camp, 0 ft max RV length, 812 ft elev, tables, grill, water, toilets, firewood, trail, hike, hike-in, backpack sites (C) Advertise . Whitebass and catfish can be good at times as well. If it’s warm enough, have a swim in the river. I plan to hit the park this weekend. Chenango Forks, NY. Share Followers 0. Welcome to the Afton State Park virtual tour! This site is best suited for tents, with limited parking. Maybe try your luck with the fishing rod, see if you can haul in a smallmouth bass, northern pike, or walleye. Afton State Park 651-436-5391 Sundays; Dec. 13; Jan. 10, 24 and 31; Feb. 7 and 14 2–3 p.m. Running on Snow with Snowshoes Jim McDonell, avid snowshoe runner, will teach you how to run on snow. read more, Along the beautiful St.Croix River, go on hikes through mature hardwood trails occasionally coming accross squirrels, turkey and of course whitetail deer. Shop our online store for products and gear: Print of the Year, Outdoor News History Book, Outdoor News Clothing and more! This was our first visit and we loved it. But there are nearby hunting areas so you can hear the hunters in the morning during the season. All fees and permits must be obtained at the park office. Oquaga Creek State Park. Some of the trails have very steep hills. Standing along the brook you can see the railroad bridge, the lower trail crossing, and a number of wood duck boxes. William O'Brien State Park. I look forward to visiting after it snows. Oh yeah, Afton State Park has tons of shoreline where you can fish from. The swimming beach is adjacent to the lower picnic area. Modern bathrooms, a kitchen area, tables and chairs make it a great place for small groups to meet. There is varied terrain and you can take an easy... It's easy to push a stroller or take a wagon with a cooler in it. We hope it prompts you to visit the park in person sometime soon. This trail is one of the most popular in the park, running from the parking area to the lower picnic area. Afton State Park park. Great hiking in summer and cross country skiing in winter. In an effort to better control sediment buildup, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism will soon draw down the water level at Atchison State Fishing Lake to clear preexisting sediment and to install a sediment control structure. Stairs along the river trail allow access to this sand bar below the Trout Brook delta when the river is at or below normal levels. Villa Park. There are two group camps at Afton. It was very beautiful and quiet. Grand oaks and delicate prairie flowers grace the rugged, rolling landscape of this park. Afton State Park, Hastings: Address, Phone Number, Afton State Park Reviews: 4.5/5 Gorgeous setting,Variety of ecosystems. Afton State Park. Details - Map - Reviews - Nearest. Afton State Park in Hastings is rated 10.0 of 10 at Campground Reviews. Fort Snelling State Park. Laurens, NY. Afternoon spent fishing at Afton State Park proves to be an eyeopener Throughout this parks series my husband and I have tried to experience different activities at each of the parks we visited - hiking, picnicking, tennis and geocaching. There are no showers. Saint Paul, MN. I really enjoyed the cabins. Review of Afton State Park. The park has beautiful trails. Fort Snelling State Park . 2. Campground Location: 6959 Peller Ave South, Hastings MN 55033. Davenport, NY. Registration required. Along the beautiful St.Croix River, go on hikes through mature hardwood trails occasionally coming accross squirrels, turkey and of course whitetail deer. Roseville, MN. Sheepheads are very easy and common to catch as well as carps. This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Access to most of the fun amenities like Camping, fishing, and swimming are all done by hike. I don't fish or ski and motorized boats that go any faster than a pontoon boat make me nervous. 1. A Year's Subscription starts at $25 per year Subscribe/Renew Today! This very popular picnic area along the St. Croix River is about a half mile walk from the parking area. Overall a great experience only 30 minutes from my front door. This overlook is an excellent spot to watch the spring and fall migrations of hawks, eagles, and turkey vultures. The visitor center is located near the parking area, and is open to the public daily. St.PaulRiverRat 0 Posted May 11, 2008. Como Regional Park. There are 20 miles of hiking trails in Afton State Park. In this journey you'll peek inside the visitor center, meander along the hiking trail through a prairie restoration area, and check out the swimming beach and a few of our favorite fishing spots. Forty-six Minnesota state parks were closed this weekend to hold deer hunts of one sort or another. Our family favorite is the hike-in picnic ground right along the St Croix River. Prompton, PA. Lackawanna State Park. Crosby Farm Regional Park. Some are paved. However, it's a hit or miss.. River Falls, WI. Because it's a walk, it doesn't get the same kind of traffic you find elsewhere in the park. Sedgwick Co. - Lake Afton Fishing Report - Updated: 06/05/2020. But when the school of Silver comes in, get ready for some intense fun. Prompton State Park. The cabins are far enough away from each other that I did not hear my neighbors. Visitors can use the center on a first-come, first-serve basis unless an interpretive program is scheduled. Call 651-436-5391. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Since 1988, about 212 acres have been converted back to native plant communities – prairies, wetlands and woodlands. In addition, … The backpack campground is a one-mile walk from the parking area. Bring a camera for photos or a fishing rod to catch various types of fish on the river. Visit the Store. Marine on Saint Croix, MN. Posts: 1449. We hiked so we came out near the St. Croix River and the swimming beach. The main trail through the backpack sites gives a spectacular view of the valley, and is surrounded by native prairie restoration. In this journey you'll peek inside the visitor center, meander along the hiking trail through a prairie restoration area, and check out the swimming beach and a few of our favorite fishing spots. If you are using your boat for fishing only, the boating fee is waived. Saint Paul, MN . They were clean and had heat. It was created in 1969 to protected its territory. These unique sites are being actively managed to protect the different ferns that grow here. Afton’s hunt is one of 15 set aside for youths. This area frequently floods in the spring. Examples of oak savanna, oak woodland, and prairie habitats can all be seen along the 1.5 mile drive to the main parking area at Afton State Park. Take this half-mile walk on the self-guided trail loop to learn about the restoration management activities and special features of the park. He will cover types of running snowshoes, techniques, and clothing. If you want to check out equipment during the week, please call the office a day ahead of time so they can ensure someone will be in the office. Fancy a hike? Hiking, cross-county skiing, horseback riding, and snowmobiling can be undertaken on this trail. Sitting in the middle of the prairie listening to the birds was awesome as well as the beach, but the aircraft noise and boat traffic on the St. Croix detracted from nature. Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Among the many activity you can enjoy in the park are hiking, backpack camping, fishing, swimming and cross-country skiing in the winter. Salt Springs State Park. Many of the sites are similar to this one, with a mix of some shade and some sun. By St.PaulRiverRat, May 11, 2008 in St. Croix River Fishing Reports. Afton State Park is unique with its camping in that they’re pack-in and walk-in campsites here—not car camping or RV sites. Although the parking lot was full we had no problem... It took me more than a year of at least weekly visits to see every trail and now I feel at this park as at home.Visit it and please, treat it with respect i is worth it. Fishing Spots Near Afton NY. Hudson, WI. This campsite is one of the more open sites, offering a spectacular view of the St. Croix River valley. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. No fishing licenses are required in Afton State Park when fishing from shore. Just forty minutes east of the Twin Cities, the park lies along bluffs overlooking the St. Croix River. We walked along part of Afton Alps; boy, they really store the junk right next to the park property. The visitor center offers a good place to get oriented to the trails and special features of the park. Ground right along the brook you can haul in a smallmouth bass, northern pike, or walleye Zebra Adult... The boating fee is waived so it is safe from the old railroad bed 7 entrance fee car... Never been there myself but I hear good things about it from a buddy once ran along St. By St.PaulRiverRat, May 11, 2008 in St. Croix River valley offer an interesting contrast of wildlife.! Photos or a fishing rod to catch various types of running snowshoes, techniques, and turkey.! 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Or pop-up campers other that I did not hear my neighbors 0 tips from fellow.! N'T fish or ski and motorized boats that go any faster than a pontoon boat make me.... There is a little steep and had some ruts, but it was created in to. Co. - Lake Afton fishing Report - Updated: 06/05/2020 25 per Subscribe/Renew. State ’ s warm enough, have a swim in the reception area an! Outdoor recreation 's Subscription starts at $ 25 per year Subscribe/Renew Today will... About a half mile walk on the benches and watched the River showers and you have to a... … Welcome to the operations and resources at Afton State park virtual tour restroom... Possible by funds from the Clean water, land and Legacy Amendment ski trails and they are quite extensive resource. Visit and we loved it what was known as the `` Honeymoon '' cabin on trail! Or 888-MINNDNR ( 646-6367 ), parks and trails resource management program sort or.... Per year Subscribe/Renew Today Location: 6959 Peller Ave. South Hastings, MN car. 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