Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Overview
In 1945, the creation of this park protected one of the last remnants of Minnesota’s Big Woods. A visit today reveals the ancient forests of pre-settlement Minnesota. Walk beneath sugar maple, basswood, elm, green ash and ironwood trees. Find over 50 varieties of wildflowers and many species of ferns and mushrooms along the rolling hills and glacial-cut valleys. Prairie Creek flows through the park, its picturesque Hidden Falls just waiting to be discovered. Picnic, hike, birdwatch, take photographs or camp. There is so much to see and do.
- Trails
- 12
- Viewpoints
- 0
- 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.
- 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 visitor center or online.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- Do not swim or wade in Hidden Falls or Prairie Creek, as the water contains persistently high levels of E. coli and fecal coliform bacteria caused by upstream agricultural runoff and local wildlife activity.
- Additionally, visitors should check the Minnesota DNR Visitor Alerts before arriving to verify current trail conditions.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking/Snowmobiling (Fox Trail)
Hiking (Hidden Falls Trail)
Hiking/Snowmobiling (Basswood Trail)
Hiking (Maple Trail)
Hiking (White Oak Trail)
Hiking (Beaver Trail)
Hiking (Fawn Trail)
Hiking/Snowmobiling (Ironwood Trail)
Hope Trail
Hiking (Prairie Trail)
Hiking/Snowmobiling (Prairie Trail)
Hiking/Snowmobiling (Big Woods Trail)
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
In 1945, the creation of this park protected one of the last remnants of Minnesota’s Big Woods. A visit today reveals the ancient forests of pre-settlement Minnesota. Walk beneath sugar maple, basswood, elm, green ash and ironwood trees.
Where is Nerstrand Big Woods State Park located?
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park is located in Nerstrand, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park has 12 mapped trails covering 12.6 miles in total. The longest is Hiking (Fawn Trail) at 1.5 miles.
What facilities are available at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Facilities at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and Visitor / Ranger Station.
Is there parking at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Yes, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Are there restrooms at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Yes, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park has restrooms (Restrooms / Flush Toilets).
Can I camp at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
Yes, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park has 4 campsites marked on its map: Campground (Nerstrand Big Woods), Groupcamp, RV Sanitation Station and Walk-in Sites.
How can I contact Nerstrand Big Woods State Park?
You can contact Nerstrand Big Woods State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Nerstrand Big Woods State Park know?
Do not swim or wade in Hidden Falls or Prairie Creek, as the water contains persistently high levels of E. coli and fecal coliform bacteria caused by upstream agricultural runoff and local wildlife activity. Additionally, visitors should check the Minnesota DNR Visitor Alerts before arriving to verify current trail conditions. Cell service is notoriously poor within the forest;
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