Area Parks & Forests

Zippel Bay State Park

Zippel Bay State Park consists of 2,946 acres of public lands. Campsites, picnic areas, trails, an excellent swimming beach, and protected harbor are all available at one of Minnesota's youngest state parks. The history of the area is vast, however, with it's development dating back to the ancient waters of Glacial Lake Agassiz. Spend some time here, and you'll understand why the area has drawn peoples from the Laurel Culture, to French fur traders, to sturdy pioneers, to today's outdoor enthusiast. But even if you're an amateur outdoorsman, you'll appreciate the pure, secluded wilderness of Zippel Bay State Park. More Information

Franz Jevne State Park

Franz Jevne State Park was established in 1967. Although the 118 acre area is a small piece of land when compared with other state parks, Franz Jevne is among the most scenic areas along the rainy river. Bear, beaver, wolf and moose have been sighted in this area, where short walking trails provide access to unforgettable picnic spots overlooking the Sault Rapids on Rainy River. More Information

Blueberry Hill State Park

Blueberry Hill State Park is the place to be in mid July to find Minnesota's state fruit. As the name implies, Blueberry Hill is often one of the most productive blueberry producing sites in the area. Located 4 miles west of Williams, the park features scenic hiking and driving trails to take you through fresh pine forests and wildflower filled bogs. As winter sets in, snowmobilers will find that the trails at Blueberry Hill meet up with the areas nearly 500 miles of groomed trails, providing practically endless riding opportunities. More Information

Beltrami Island State Forest

Beltrami Island State Forest is the second largest state forest in Minnesota. It's nearly 670,000 acres of marshes, bogs, and sand ridges all open to the public. Miles of gravel roads open the forest to all who wish to explore the wonders within it's borders. Among the natural growth you'll find rare flowers and shrubs, as well as berries, plantations, and experimental timber tracts set up by the Minnesota DNR. Keep an eye out for wildlife - white tail deer, moose, bear, fox, and many species of birds populate the area. More Information

Pine Island State Forest

Pine Island State Forest is the largest of Minnesota's state forests. With over 870,000 acres of level terrain with swamp and bog areas, remnants of glacial Lake Agassiz are visible as the deposits of sandy loam which create “islands,” once covered with stands of pine. The forest is now comprised of spruce, tamarack and cedar, with aspen, balsam fir and pine dominating the higher elevations. The bogs hold an amazing variety of delicately beautiful orchids, which thrive from late May into June. Area wildlife include deer, bear, ruffed grouse, timber wolf, moose, and fisher. More Information