William O’Brien State Park sits along the scenic St. Croix River in Washington County, Minnesota, offering 1,783 acres of rolling hills, prairie grasslands, and hardwood forests just 50 miles northeast of the Twin Cities. Its location on the St. Croix — one of the original eight Wild and Scenic Rivers — makes it a standout destination for paddlers, anglers, and anyone drawn to river bluffs and valley views.

The park’s trail system winds through diverse terrain, with over 12 miles of hiking paths that pass through oak savannas, restored prairies bursting with wildflowers in summer, and shaded riverside stretches. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing take over in winter, when the bluffs offer quiet solitude. Birdwatchers will find the park rewarding year-round, with bald eagles frequently spotted along the river corridor and warblers filling the woods during spring migration.

Canoeing and kayaking on the St. Croix are among the park’s biggest draws. A boat launch provides easy river access, and the calm stretches near the park suit paddlers of all skill levels. Swimming is available at a sandy beach on Lake Alice during summer months.

The best time to visit is late September through mid-October, when the river valley erupts in fall color — the bluff overlooks are exceptional. Summer weekends draw crowds, so midweek visits offer a more peaceful experience.

William O’Brien delivers genuine river-valley beauty without the long drive that Minnesota’s North Shore demands — a rewarding escape that feels farther from civilization than the map suggests.

Explore Nearby

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