Afton State Park stretches across 1,600 acres of rolling prairie and rugged ravines along the St. Croix River in Washington County, Minnesota. Unlike the heavily wooded parks that dominate the state, Afton stands out for its wide-open grasslands — restored native prairie that blooms with wildflowers from late spring through fall, drawing butterflies and birders alike.

The park’s terrain is surprisingly hilly for the Twin Cities metro area, making its 20-plus miles of trails a genuine workout. Hikers and trail runners tackle steep bluff climbs rewarded with panoramic views of the St. Croix River valley. In winter, those same trails become excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing routes, with enough elevation change to keep things interesting.

Afton offers backpack-in camping only — there are no drive-up sites. The 24 campsites sit roughly a mile from the parking area, which keeps things quiet and uncrowded even on busy summer weekends. It’s one of the few places near the metro where you can get a genuine backcountry feel without driving hours north.

Swimming is available at a sandy beach along the St. Croix, a perfect cooldown after a summer hike. The river shoreline also draws anglers and kayakers exploring the federally designated Wild and Scenic waterway.

Visit in late June through August for prairie wildflowers at peak bloom and river swimming, or in early October when the bluff hardwoods turn. Afton proves you don’t need to leave the metro to find real wilderness.

Explore Nearby

• Superior National Forest — National Forest in Minnesota
• Chippewa National Forest — National Forest in Minnesota
• Minnesota Scenic Byways — Scenic Byway in Minnesota
• Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Minnesota
• The Arches Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Minnesota