With as many state parks as Minnesota has, no one should have any trouble finding something interesting to do. The only problem that sometimes crops up is choosing between parks. Do you want to visit one with the best camping, one that highlights state geology, or one that showcases Minnesota history? At one park in southern Minnesota, you can do all three. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park has a cave, camping, and a historic village all in one. Plan your trip to this delightful park that truly has it all. Take a look:
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park is a fantastic place to have an adventure, with plenty to do no matter what you're interested in. Address: 21071 County Road 118, Preston, MN, 55965
The park is deep within southern Minnesota - about 125 miles southwest of the Twin Cities but the drive is full of beautiful countryside scenery.
When you arrive, you'll need to choose between the two parts of the park. Forestville is accessible by walking across a century-old bridge.
It leads to the historic village of Forestville. This town sprung up in 1852 and thrived until the last family left in 1910. But many of the old buildings remain today.
In the Mystery Cave area of the park, the landscape is dominated by the beautiful Root River.
Tables near the river offer great places to unload a picnic basket. Pack a cooler full of drinks, and you're ready for a lovely meal under the sun.
Or if you'd like to make a whole weekend of it, Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park has plenty of accommodations. Stay in a tent site, or upgrade to a cabin!
After you're all unpacked, it's time to take a cave tour. Deep underground, a damp, dark cave awaits.
A guide will lead you through the narrow passages, pointing out the most interesting formations along the way.
At the end of the tour, you'll find yourself looking into a still blue pool. This beautiful sight is the crowning jewel of the park, and it will make your trip to rural Minnesota more than worth it!
Have you been to Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park? What did you think? If you love caves, also check out our article about Niagara Cave, Minnesota's only cave with an underground waterfall!
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