In the middle of a bustling urban setting, this 72 mile river park offers quiet stretches for fishing, boating and canoeing, birdwatching, bicycling, and hiking. And there are plenty of visitor centers and trails that highlight the fascinating human history of the Mississippi River. This a great place to start your exp…
About Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
In the middle of a bustling urban setting, this 72 mile river park offers quiet stretches for fishing, boating and canoeing, birdwatching, bicycling, and hiking. And there are plenty of visitor centers and trails that highlight the fascinating human history of the Mississippi River. This a great place to start your exploration of this important river.
Photos
Fall Colors — NPS/Kyle JustGreat Egret Fishes the Mississippi River — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanBoating on the Mississippi River — NPS Photo/Gordon DietzmanSavanna at Coldwater Spring — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanBuilding a Nest — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanCanoeing through Lotus Blossoms — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanWater Source for a Fort — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanClouds Over the Mississippi River — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanCanoeing the Vermillion River Backwaters — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanStorms over Grey Cloud Dunes — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanCanoeing Past Gulls — NPS photo/Gordon DietzmanModern day Voyageurs Paddle the Mississippi River — NPS photo/Gordon Dietzman
How to Get There
Limited metered street parking is available on nearby streets near park headquarters. Several parking ramps are available nearby including the Kellogg Square parking ramp. The Mississippi River Visitor Center is located in the lobby of the Science Museum of Minnesota (120 Kellogg Blvd West, St. Paul, MN).
Plan Your Visit to Mississippi National River & Recreation Area
Heading to Mississippi National River & Recreation Area? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?
No central reservation system listed for Mississippi National River & Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2827) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?
Limited metered street parking is available on nearby streets near park headquarters. Several parking ramps are available nearby including the Kellogg Square parking ramp. The Mississippi River Visitor Center is located in the lobby of the Science Museum of Minnesota (120 Kellogg Blvd West, St. Paul, MN).
How do I contact Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?
You can reach the park at phone: (651) 293-0200 or email: [email protected].