Road Trips Starting from Forest Lake, MN
Best National Parks Near Forest Lake, MN
For water-based recreation, don’t miss Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota. The area is home to an amazing selection of lakes big and small, which offers great opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and water sports. If you'd rather stay on land, the park features many miles of scenic hiking trails, giving you the chance to observe a variety of local birds and other wildlife.
Badlands National Park is one of the most remarkable natural areas in the country, featuring a unique landscape covered in eroded buttes and jutting pinnacles. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular views and observe the local wildlife, which includes prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and bison. Other popular activities include hiking, biking, backcountry camping, and stargazing.
If you make your way to the southwestern corner of North Dakota, make sure to visit the picturesque Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The only national park named after a single person, it features badlands, the Little Missouri River, and many unique wildlife species. You can hike through the area's rolling hills and canyons or head to the nearby river for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Popular State Parks Near Forest Lake, MN
Situated near Taylor Falls, MN, Interstate State Park lies on the banks of the St. Croix River and is known for its exceptional beauty and its 10 different lava flows. Visitors can enjoy activities like kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and searching for fossils.
Across the river, there's another beautiful park also named Interstate State Park. The oldest state park in Wisconsin, it boasts lowland forests, bedrock glades, and wetlands. The area is an excellent destination for wildlife viewing and bird-watching, and there are also nine miles of scenic hiking trails to explore.
Another picturesque natural haven in western Wisconsin is Willow River State Park, which comprises 2,891 acres and is most famous for being the home of the majestic Willow Falls. The scenic park is a popular destination for all sorts of outdoor recreational activities, including camping, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and bird-watching.
Must-see Monuments and Landmarks Near Forest Lake, MN
While you're in the Forest Lake region, consider visiting some of Minnesota's unique monuments and landmarks. In Minneapolis, take some time to explore the incredible Mall of America, which is the largest mall on the planet. The complex features stores, an aquarium, mini-golf courses, a theme park, and much more.
Another Minneapolis landmark to check out is the Mill City Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating milling history of the city. Browse a variety of exhibits and get up close and personal with milling equipment.
It's also worth stopping by the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, which is home to 40 permanent public art installations and a variety of rotating pieces. The garden is free to enter and offers lots of unique photo opportunities.
RVshare’s Top Picks for Nearby RV Parks & Campgrounds
One affordable campground to consider is Saint Croix Bluffs Regional Park, which boasts 62 RV campsites available for only $15-$22 per night. There are full hookups available, and the area features scenic trails and a river for swimming and fishing.
You could also stay at Lebanon Hills Campground, which contains 93 RV campsites available for $28-$39 per night. You can rent a site with full hookups and utilize the camp store, nearby trails, and a variety of amenities.
Another peaceful camping option is Cannon Falls Campground. There, you can stay at one of the 95 RV campsites for $45-$51 per night, and you'll also have access to a softball field, a pool, and helpful staff members.
RV Dump Stations Near Forest Lake, MN
Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a vibrant city with many activities to keep you entertained. While you're RVing to Minneapolis, you'll find that there are several free and paid dump stations in and near the Twin City area. Review our list to browse the options and their corresponding addresses, costs, and features. By preparing ahead of time, finding the best RV dump station for your journey will be easier. Don't forget to also check out the top campgrounds and RV storage options in Minneapolis before your trip.
