Banning State Park
Overview
Banning State Park is filled with gorgeous scenery, historic significance and recreational adventure. The park was created in 1963 to protect a unique landscape along the Kettle River. The river itself is a favorite of whitewater paddlers. With five sets of rapids ranging from Class III-V, it offers a wavy playground for experienced paddlers. Hikers can enjoy river views from 17 miles of scenic trails. Watch for wildlife, climb through unique geological formations, and visit two waterfalls during your stay. Stop along the Quarry Loop Trail to explore the ruins of a 130-year-old sandstone quarry. See the quarry wall that still bears the marks of steam-powered drills and find the skeletons of the rock crusher and power house buildings.
- Trails
- 13
- Viewpoints
- 4
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 14
Opening Hours
08:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Emergency SOS
Amenities Available
- Paved Parking Lots
Designated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
Modern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
- Drinking Water Fountains
Potable water stations distributed throughout the park, tested regularly for safety to ensure clean water access for all visitors.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
Covered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
- Visitor / Ranger Station
Information hub staffed by rangers or volunteers offering maps, wildlife briefings, and educational programs for school groups and families.
- Hiking & Nature Trails
Marked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
- Campgrounds
Tent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permits required; purchase at ranger station or entrance kiosk
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- When visiting Banning State Park, your primary safety focus should be the Kettle River's unpredictable water levels and hazardous Class IV whitewater rapids.
- Strong undercurrents near Hell's Gate and the park's waterfalls pose severe drowning risks; always wear a life jacket, keep a close watch on children, and never swim or wade above a waterfall.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Interpretive Hiking (Upper Skunk Cabbage trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Spur Trail)
Interpretative Hiking (Quarry Loop Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Lower Skunk Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Trillium Trail)
Hiking (Wolf Creek Trail + Wolf Creek Falls Trail) + Wolf Creek Falls Trail
Interpretative Hiking (Cartway Trail + Hiking Club Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Cut-off Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Portage Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Connecting Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (High Bluff Trail)
Interpretive Hiking (Hell’s Gate Trail)
Paved (Banning State Park Bicycle Entrance)
Nearby Viewpoints
Overlook (Teacher's)
Overlook
0.4 mi
Watercraft Campsite
Personal Watercraft
0.5 mi
Watercraft Campsite
Personal Watercraft
0.7 mi
Waterfall (Wolf Creek)
Waterfall
1.6 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Banning State Park?
Banning State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Banning State Park?
Banning State Park is filled with gorgeous scenery, historic significance and recreational adventure. The park was created in 1963 to protect a unique landscape along the Kettle River. The river itself is a favorite of whitewater paddlers.
Where is Banning State Park located?
Banning State Park is located in Finlayson, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Banning State Park?
Banning State Park has 13 mapped trails covering 13.5 miles in total. The longest is Hiking (Wolf Creek Trail + Wolf Creek Falls Trail) + Wolf Creek Falls Trail at 2.1 miles.
What is there to see at Banning State Park?
Places to see at Banning State Park include Overlook (Teacher's), Watercraft Campsite, Waterfall (Wolf Creek), Power House Building, Rock Crusher Building and Trailer Access.
What facilities are available at Banning State Park?
Facilities at Banning State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Hiking & Nature Trails, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and Visitor / Ranger Station.
Is there parking at Banning State Park?
Yes, Banning State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Banning State Park?
Yes, Banning State Park has 1 campsite marked on its map.
How can I contact Banning State Park?
You can contact Banning State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Banning State Park know?
When visiting Banning State Park, your primary safety focus should be the Kettle River's unpredictable water levels and hazardous Class IV whitewater rapids. Strong undercurrents near Hell's Gate and the park's waterfalls pose severe drowning risks; always wear a life jacket, keep a close watch on children, and never swim or wade above a waterfall. Additionally, check the Minnesota DNR Current Conditions Page before heading out, as regional dry spells often trigger strict seasonal campfire.
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