5 Amazing State Parks Near Minneapolis That Will Blow You Away

The state of Minnesota is home to 75 parks and recreation areas, and each and every one of them is absolutely spectacular. The preservation of parks within our state and country is vital to maintain our environments. Within Minnesota's 87,000 square miles of land and water, that means there is so much beauty to be seen. Here are five spectacular state parks to visit in Minneapolis -- all within a 50 mile radius of the city. Check them out and plan a little retreat into the great outdoors!

1. Fort Snelling State Park (Saint Paul)

The most notable feature in this park has always been Historic Fort Snelling which had been a military training ground dating back to 1820. It requires a different entrance fee to visit the historic confines of the military compound, but since Fort Snelling State Park opened in 1962, Minneapolitans can explore the area where the Minnesota River meets the Mississippi. There are biking and hiking trails to explore throughout the entire state park. It's the perfect mix of history and nature. Visit the Fort Snelling State Park website to learn more!

2. Nerstrand Big Woods State Park (Nerstrand)

Before European settlers developed land in Minnesota, the area of this state park was part of a larger collective of "big woods," from which the park takes its name. Most of the park is in the forest, making it the perfect place to take in autumn foliage or to escape the heat of the sun in summer. The land is abundant with Platteville limestone, which created the hidden falls in the park, which are something that need to be seen to be believed. Visit the park website to learn more!

3. Afton State Park (Afton)

Not to be confused with the ski and snowboard area of Afton Alps (although that is adjacent to the park), this is the epitome of Minnesota's beautiful nature. There are walkable trails that are safe for the entire family and amazing campsites to observe the most incredible Minnesota sunsets. Why aren't you there yet?

4. Lake Maria State Park (Silver Creek Township)

Lake Maria State Park is also home to some of the remaining "big woods" that once covered southern part of Minnesota. This park is a one-of-a-kind spot that's perfect for hikers, year-round campers, but horseback riders.

5. William O'Brien State Park (St. Croix)

William O'Brien State Park is well-known for the Beaver Lodge Trail, which leads park visitors to the spaces where beavers are actively building their wooden homes. While most view beavers as a nuisance that flood the lands near their lodges, this park happily embraces them. Since you're so far from the city, camping here is splendid with some seriously stellar views for stargazing.

These five state parks are just a few of the best to visit in Minneapolis, since they can all be reached within less than an hour's drive. Of course, we all know there are so many more stunning parks within the state of Minnesota, so what is your favorite park (and why)? Let us know in the comments below.

For the outdoorsy Minneapolitan, read this article: Here Are The 5 Most Incredible Natural Gems In Minneapolis-Saint Paul.