Afton State Park Day Use Facilities

Open — Open year-round for day use. Park access is first-come, first-served. Minnesota State Park vehicle permit required.

About

Afton State Park's day-use facilities offer visitors access to one of Minnesota's most scenic river valley parks. The park features rugged, rolling glacial moraine landscape with blufftop prairies, deep ravines, and spectacular overlooks of the St. Croix River. Day visitors can explore 20 miles of trails that traverse remnant and restored prairies, wind through oak woodlands, and climb to grassy ridgetops with panoramic views. The park includes three picnic areas with tables and grills, plus one reservable picnic shelter for larger gatherings. A walk-in swimming beach on the St. Croix River provides a refreshing summer destination, accessible via a short trail from the visitor center. The visitor center itself offers restrooms and features a wood stove for warmth during winter visits. Afton State Park is particularly popular for trail running and is considered one of the most sought-after trail running locations in Minnesota. Winter visitors enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on groomed trails. The park requires a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit for entry.

Directions

From St. Paul, drive 9 miles east on I-94, then 7 miles south on Highway 95, and finally 3 miles east on County Road 20 to reach Afton State Park.

Nearby Campgrounds