Kilen Woods State Park
Overview
Kilen Woods State Park was created in 1945 to preserve vanishing natural features in the Des Moines River Watershed. The beautiful Prairie Bush Clover Scientific and Natural Area is located within the park and protects the federally threatened prairie bush clover along with hundreds of prairie dependent plants, pollinators and wildlife. You’ll also experience oak savanna and cool woodlands during your stay. Visit and immerse yourself in the park’s unique habitats as you hike, camp, paddle or bird watch.
- Trails
- 3
- Viewpoints
- 5
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 19
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.
- Sports Courts
Basketball, tennis, volleyball, and pickleball courts available in most parks, with lighting for evening play in urban locations.
- Overlook
- Firewood
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 Kilen Woods State Park, campers and hikers must plan ahead for self-sufficiency and strict site regulations.
- “This campground does not have potable water on-site,” meaning visitors must bring all water needed for drinking and cleaning.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking
Hiking
Kilen Woods State Park Hiking Club Trail
Nearby Viewpoints
Campground
0.1 mi
Overlook
0.2 mi
Overlook (Des Moines River)
Overlook
0.2 mi
Picnic Area
0.3 mi
Volleyball Court
0.3 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Kilen Woods State Park?
Kilen Woods State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Kilen Woods State Park?
Kilen Woods State Park was created in 1945 to preserve vanishing natural features in the Des Moines River Watershed.
Where is Kilen Woods State Park located?
Kilen Woods State Park is located in Lakefield, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Kilen Woods State Park?
Kilen Woods State Park has 3 mapped trails covering 4.3 miles in total. The longest is Kilen Woods State Park Hiking Club Trail at 2.1 miles.
What is there to see at Kilen Woods State Park?
Places to see at Kilen Woods State Park include Overlook (Des Moines River), Trailer Access and Watercraft Campsite.
What facilities are available at Kilen Woods State Park?
Facilities at Kilen Woods State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Firewood, Hiking & Nature Trails, Overlook, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and 2 more.
Is there parking at Kilen Woods State Park?
Yes, Kilen Woods State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Kilen Woods State Park?
Yes, Kilen Woods State Park has 3 campsites marked on its map, including Walk-in Campsite.
How can I contact Kilen Woods State Park?
You can contact Kilen Woods State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Kilen Woods State Park know?
When visiting Kilen Woods State Park, campers and hikers must plan ahead for self-sufficiency and strict site regulations. “This campground does not have potable water on-site,” meaning visitors must bring all water needed for drinking and cleaning.
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