Great River Bluffs State Park Cart-in Campsites

Open — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from March through October.

About

The cart-in camping area at Great River Bluffs State Park provides a more primitive and secluded camping experience compared to the park's main drive-in campground. Located high on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River Valley, these four tent-only sites require campers to transport their gear on foot using carts provided by the park. This unique setup creates a quieter, more intimate camping environment while still maintaining accessibility. Each cart-in site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring for outdoor cooking and evening campfires when conditions permit. Drinking water is available nearby, and the sites are served by vault toilets. The cart-in campground offers views of Kearns Valley and sits within a landscape of oak-hickory woods, pine plantations, and goat prairies. The park's excellent trail system, including the popular Kings Bluff Trail with its breathtaking overlooks 500 feet above the Mississippi River Valley, is easily accessible from the camping area. Great River Bluffs State Park is located in the scenic bluff country of southeastern Minnesota along the Great River Road, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and Wisconsin beyond. The park is known for its rare goat prairie ecosystems and serves as a prime viewing area for waterfowl, eagles, and hawks migrating through this major flyway.

Directions

From I-90, take exit 267 and follow County Road 3 south for approximately 4 miles to the park entrance.

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