Carley State Park
Overview
Visit the park in spring for a parade of early wildflowers, or in the fall for a display of colorful oaks and maples. Come during any season to glimpse the towering white pines that first prompted the park’s creation. State Senator James A. Carley and the Ernestina Bolt family donatedthis land in 1948 to preserve an outstanding groveof white pines found here. Look opposite thepicnic area and you will still see some of thesegiants in the river valley today. In addition to thepines, spring wildflowers and numerous birdspecies, the park also protects a portion of theBlufflands Landscape Region. This is a unique areain southeastern Minnesota that features highbluffs, deep valleys and rolling uplands.
- Trails
- 4
- Viewpoints
- 7
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 21
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.
- 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.
- Playgrounds
Modern play structures for children with rubberized safety surfaces and age-appropriate equipment meeting ASTM safety standards.
- Historic Site
- Overlook
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permits required; purchase at entrance kiosk.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- When visiting Carley State Park, exercise caution along the river valley trails as they feature steep drop-offs and narrow paths that become highly slippery when wet or muddy.
- Additionally, cell phone coverage is weak or completely unavailable inside the valley, so it is essential to download maps in advance and notify someone of your itinerary.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Nearby Viewpoints
Picnic Shelter
0.1 mi
Picnic Area
0.1 mi
Playground
0.1 mi
Group Camp
Campground
0.2 mi
Overlook
0.2 mi
Group Camp
Campground
0.2 mi
Historic Site (James A. Carley & Ernestina Bolt Monument)
Monument / Memorial
0.3 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Carley State Park?
Carley State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Carley State Park?
Visit the park in spring for a parade of early wildflowers, or in the fall for a display of colorful oaks and maples. Come during any season to glimpse the towering white pines that first prompted the park’s creation. State Senator James A.
Where is Carley State Park located?
Carley State Park is located in Plainview, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Carley State Park?
Carley State Park has 4 mapped trails covering 4.1 miles in total. The longest is Hiking at 3.1 miles.
What facilities are available at Carley State Park?
Facilities at Carley State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Hiking & Nature Trails, Historic Site, Overlook, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Playgrounds and 1 more.
Is there parking at Carley State Park?
Yes, Carley State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Are there restrooms at Carley State Park?
Yes, Carley State Park has restrooms (Restrooms / Flush Toilets).
Can I camp at Carley State Park?
Yes, Carley State Park has 3 campsites marked on its map, including Group Camp.
How can I contact Carley State Park?
You can contact Carley State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Carley State Park know?
When visiting Carley State Park, exercise caution along the river valley trails as they feature steep drop-offs and narrow paths that become highly slippery when wet or muddy. Additionally, cell phone coverage is weak or completely unavailable inside the valley, so it is essential to download maps in advance and notify someone of your itinerary. Be prepared for seasonal flooding that can suddenly submerge low-lying trail bridges, and protect yourself against ticks and mosquitoes
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