When most people think of Minnesota beaches, they imagine big lakes with sandy shores. While those are plentiful in Minnesota, there are plenty of other great places to sunbathe and swim. For example, there’s an amazing beach on the St. Croix River that not many people know about it. If you visit, you’ll be treated with an unbeatable experience that can only be described as a Minnesota paradise. Read on to learn about Minnesota’s secret beach on the St. Croix River.

Afton State Park is a beautiful, 1600-acre oasis in eastern Minnesota. Address: 6959 Peller Avenue South, Hastings, MN 55033.
Duquesnegirl/TripAdvisor
While the park is beautiful, it is not - in our opinion - nearly as popular as it should be. With plenty to do, including 20 miles of hiking trails, it's an outdoor lover's paradise.
Kirk H/TripAdvisor
Many campsites and camper cabins are also a big draw if you love Mother Nature. Each site is outfitted with a fire ring, picnic table, and ample shade.
karen k/TripAdvisor
As you explore the park, you'll catch glimpses of the St. Croix River. In some areas, deep ravines dip 300 feet to the river.
Ather Syed/Google

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But distant views aren't the only way to experience the St. Croix River at Afton State Park. The park is also home to a secret beach.
dr_foucalt/TripAdvisor
The long beach, covered in soft, fine sand, is an ideal oasis during a hot summer. Lay down a towel or set up a beach chair. Then, enjoy the riverside paradise.
TomYuliaP/TripAdvisor
A few places offer excellent shade, perfect spots for posting up with a book for a day of outdoor fun.
oannaokateo/TripAdvisor
But if lounging isn't enough, feel free to dip a toe in! The water is cool and clean. And because the beach is lesser known, it's not too crowded!
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
All in all, the secret beach at Afton State Park offers a peaceful, beautiful, and cooling paradise during a Minnesota summer.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Have you been to the beach at Afton State Park? What did you think? For more information about the park, check out their page on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website. And for other great – and secret! – beaches in Minnesota, check out our list of 8 secret beaches in Minnesota.

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