Minneopa State Park
Overview
Established in 1905, Minneopa State Park is the third oldest state park in Minnesota. It is best known for the double waterfall that thunders during high water. The upper falls drops 7 to 10 feet and the lower falls tumbles another 40. This feature is the result of water cutting into layers of sandstone over time. Take the Mill Road to look for the bison, reintroduced in 2015. These animals will naturally manage the prairie ecosystem, just as they did over a hundred fifty years ago. Near this area, you may view another reminder of the park’s rich history: Seppmann Mill. Enjoy a walk to the sandstone windmill that ground wheat and other grains from 1864 to 1890.
- Trails
- 6
- Viewpoints
- 5
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 17
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.
- Campgrounds
Tent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Required; purchase at park office or self-pay station.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- Safety Alert: American Plains bison are wild, unpredictable animals that can run up to 35 mph and charge without warning.
- For your safety, you must remain inside your completely enclosed vehicle with all doors and windows shut at all times while on the Bison Drive.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking/Skiing (Minnesota River Bluff Trail)
Hiking/Skiing (Minnesota River Bluff Trail + Seppmann Mill Trail)
Hiking/Skiing (Wetland Loop Trail)
Hiking (Minneapa Creek Trail)
Hiking
Biking - Paved (S Route Trail)
Nearby Viewpoints
Overlook
Viewing Area
0.5 mi
Overlook
Viewing Area
0.7 mi
Historic Site (Seppmann Mill)
Monument / Memorial
0.7 mi
Waterfall (Lower Minneopa)
Waterfall
0.9 mi
Overlook
Viewing Area
0.9 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Minneopa State Park?
Minneopa State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Minneopa State Park?
Established in 1905, Minneopa State Park is the third oldest state park in Minnesota. It is best known for the double waterfall that thunders during high water. The upper falls drops 7 to 10 feet and the lower falls tumbles another 40.
Where is Minneopa State Park located?
Minneopa State Park is located in Mankato, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Minneopa State Park?
Minneopa State Park has 6 mapped trails covering 7.3 miles in total. The longest is Hiking/Skiing (Minnesota River Bluff Trail + Seppmann Mill Trail) at 5.3 miles.
What is there to see at Minneopa State Park?
Places to see at Minneopa State Park include Historic Site (Seppmann Mill), Overlook, Waterfall (Lower Minneopa) and Park office.
What facilities are available at Minneopa State Park?
Facilities at Minneopa State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and Visitor / Ranger Station.
Is there parking at Minneopa State Park?
Yes, Minneopa State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Minneopa State Park?
Yes, Minneopa State Park has 3 campsites marked on its map: Campground, Group Camp and RV Sanitation Station.
How can I contact Minneopa State Park?
You can contact Minneopa State Park by phone at 886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Minneopa State Park know?
Safety Alert: American Plains bison are wild, unpredictable animals that can run up to 35 mph and charge without warning. For your safety, you must remain inside your completely enclosed vehicle with all doors and windows shut at all times while on the Bison Drive. Foot traffic, motorcycles, and open-top vehicles are strictly prohibited inside the range. Always yield the right of way to the herd and maintain a safe viewing distance of at least 75 feet.
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