There Are 5 State Parks And A National Monument Within 1 Hour Of This One Minnesota Town

If you’re interested in finding a Minnesota town near many state parks, the small city of Slayton definitely fits the bill. In fact, it’s one of only a handful of Minnesota towns that can claim close proximity to half a dozen natural wonders.

The small city of Slayton (population just over 2,000) is the seat of Murray County in southwestern Minnesota.

Its charming downtown still bears vestiges of its 19th century founding.

Although there are many things that make the town unique, it may be best known these days as the home of Slayton Bakery.

For hours, specials, or more information about this beloved institution, check out Slayton Bakery’s Facebook page.One thing that folks may not realize about Slayton, however, is that it’s located within an hour of five - yes, five! - state parks and even a national monument.

Lake Shetek, only 25 minutes away, is the closest state park to Slayton.

Gorgeous in the summertime, ​​Lake Shetek State Park is a wonderful place to stay cool on a warm weather day. Bring a picnic and some fishing gear and spend the whole day.

Kilen Woods State Park is about 55 minutes southeast of Slayton, near the Iowa border.

​​Hiking through the namesake Kilen Woods, along the Des Moines River, is a great way to spend a weekend morning.

If you’re looking for a little more adventure, head 50 minutes southwest of Slayton to Blue Mounds State Park.

​​At Blue Mounds State Park, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and camping. Reserve a teepee to sleep in, and doze off to the sounds of the park’s bison herd snuffing and stomping in the distance.

Not to be confused with the better known - and similarly named - lighthouse park on the North Shore, Split Rock Creek State Park is located about 40 minutes west of Slayton, near the South Dakota border.

​​A stroll along the eponymous stream and a picnic beside its reservoir is an ideal way to spend a day at Split Rock Creek State Park.

Camden State Park is just 40 minutes north of Slayton.

​​Camden State Park is situated in a deep river valley, lined with hardwood forest that feels like an oasis on the prairie of western Minnesota. Bring your hiking boots and fishing gear - as well as a swimsuit to take a dip in the park’s spring-fed swimming hole.

Pipestone National Monument is a 35-minute drive straight west of Slayton.

​​Pipestone National Monument is not only the perfect place to learn more about the region’s history, its native peoples, and their cultures, it’s also a site of surprising natural beauty. Home to pink Sioux quartzite cliffs and a waterfall, Pipestone is an anomaly of a natural wonder on the tallgrass prairie that dominates this part of the state.

So next time you’re looking for an adventure basecamp, consider Slayton. Have you visited this charming town?

What is another Minnesota town near many state parks and or natural wonders?