RV Rental Elk River, MN

Explore Elk River, Minnesota in an RVshare RV Rental

In 1846, a French-Canadian settler named David Fairbault built a trading post near the Elk and Mississippi rivers. An explorer from New Jersey named Zebulon Pike (of Pike's Peak fame) named the Elk River for the herds of elk he saw when he first arrived in the area in the early 19th century. The Elk River had excellent potential for water power and in 1851, Ard Godfrey built a dam and sawmill which led to the further expansion of commerce and trade in the region.

The hills surrounding Elk River are made from course materials not productive to agriculture, so the town's commerce focused on gravel mining and lumber. However, in the last part of the 19th century, potato fields began popping up across the area. This fact caused agriculture to replace mining and lumber as the base of the economy. Over the years, the various small posts and villages along the river merged together to eventually become the city of Elk River.

Today, Elk River has a population of over 25,000 with 44 square miles of land. During your visit, take time to explore Oliver Kelley Farm, Woodland Trails Regional Park, Rivers Edge Commons Park, and Hillside City Park.

Events in and Near Elk River, Minnesota

• Elk Pride Craft Bazaar – A tradition for over 50 years, this bazaar is hosted by Elk River High School every November. It has over 150 vendors, and the booth rentals go to a scholarship fund for graduating seniors.

• Holly Jolly Market – This annual holiday event hosts over 30 vendors who offer locally-crafted furniture and artisan holiday decorations in November.

• Karmel Apple Fest – This October annual festival happens at the Karmel Covenant Church. You can enjoy barrel rides, apple cannons, inflatables, car and tractor shows, a corn pit, and lots of great food.