Minneopa State Park near Mankato, Minnesota is best known for Minneopa Falls, a double waterfall and its drive through bison enclosure. Minneopa State Park was established in 1905 making it the third oldest state park in Minnesota. Minneopa State Park has two sections, the office and waterfall are off County Highway 69. The bison herd, a campground, a stone windmill, and hiking trails are on the north side of Minnesota Highway 68.
It is a short walk from the parking lot to view the Minneopa Falls. The waterfall is especially spectacular during high water. The upper falls drops about 10 feet over layers of sandstone and the lower falls drops 40 feet.
On the northwest area of the park sits the Seppmann Mill (built in 1864), a windmill grist mill fashioned in German style from native sandstone.
There are 4.5 miles of hiking trails in the park. In the winter, most hiking trails can be used for cross country skiing however the trails are not groomed. Snowshoeing can be enjoyed anywhere in the park.
The campground in the northern section of park has a total of 61 drive-in sites, 6 of the sites have electric hook ups. In addition to the main campground, there are four group sites and one camper cabin in the park. There is a restroom with showers at the campground.
A fee is required for the park. A Minnesota state park day use or annual permit can be purchased at the Park Office or at a self-serve kiosk near the entrance to the bison enclosure. Dogs are allowed in all areas of the park, except for in buildings. Dogs must when kept on a leash 6 feet long or shorter. A link to the Minnesota DNR website for Minneopa State Park can be found here.
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