Interstate State Park: The Ultimate Family Day Trip on the St. Croix
Address Minnesota Side: 307 Milltown Rd, Taylors Falls, MN 55084
About the Twin Interstate State Parks with Kids
Looking for a state park with jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating geology, and kid-approved adventures? Head to Interstate State Park! There are actually two parks with the same name.
The parks span both sides of the St. Croix River in Taylors Falls, Minnesota, and St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. These twin parks were the first interstate state parks in the nation.
Each offers its own unique way to explore the breathtaking St. Croix River and the surrounding area. You’ll need a Minnesota park pass on one side and a Wisconsin pass on the other (both available as day or annual permits).
Minnesota’s Interstate State Park with Kids
On the Minnesota side, start at the seasonal Visitor Center. Or, head straight to the Glacial Potholes Area. This unique area is an absolute must-see. Your kids will love climbing around the massive rock formations and peering into the world’s deepest explored pothole. Here, they can imagine the roaring glacial waters that carved these natural wonders thousands of years ago. There are more than 400 potholes in this area alone!
Families short on time can easily make this a one-hour stop. If that’s the case, focus on the glacial pot holes. If you’ve got more time to explore (and we hope that you do!), there are plenty of other fun adventures across the park! Plus, two very unique ways to get on the water!
Take one of the five miles of trails that wind through forests, along the river, and across rugged rock ledges. The views of the St. Croix River are spectacular, especially in the fall when the valley blazes with color. In summer, you can picnic by the river or even watch climbers scaling the basalt cliffs.
Want to get on the water? There are two spectacular ways to do so. Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental offers canoe and kayak rentals for all ages (no experience necessary). They are self-guided and depart from the state park. A shuttle returns you to the park. Then, Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers narrated tours aboard a historic paddlewheel riverboat. This is a fantastic way to learn about the area’s geology and history.
The visitor center’s exhibits and occasional ranger programs add a fun educational touch for kids. Those interested in renting a canoe or taking a historic boat tour down the river can find more information below.
Wisconsin’s Interstate State Park
Cross the bridge to the Wisconsin side, and you’ll find a completely different experience. Established in 1900, Interstate State Park is Wisconsin’s oldest state park.
Wisconsin’s Interstate State Park is also home to the Ice Age Interpretive Center. Here, kids can see mammoth molars, a replica bison skull, and even walk a portion of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The 24-minute film Mammoths and Moraines is a fun, family-friendly way to understand how glaciers shaped the dramatic gorge.
With 9 miles of summer trails (and 12.5 miles in winter), this side of the park is perfect for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Lake O’ the Dalles provides a calm spot for fishing and picnicking. Of course, the observation decks offer unbeatable views of the river!
Minnesota Side Highlights
- Scenic river views
- Miles of hiking trails (ranging in length and difficulty)
- Kid-friendly trails and experiences
- Camping
- Rock climbing
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Seasonal Visitor Center & Interpretive Exhibits on the Minnesota side
- Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental (canoe and kayak rentals)
- Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours (narrated riverboat tours)
- Vehicles require a Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permit (annual or day-pass)
Wisconsin Side Highlights
- Scenic river views from the other bank
- Miles of hiking trails (ranging in length and difficulty)
- Kid-friendly trails and experiences
- Camping
- Ice Age Interpretive Center
- Vehicles require a Wisconsin State Park Vehicle Admission Pass (annual or day-pass)
- Address Wisconsin Side: 1275 WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
