About Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1992 to protect one of the largest, most intact wetland complexes remaining in central Minnesota. Currently composed of 14 parcels of land, the refuge encompasses approximately 2,150 acres. It features a unique sand plain wetland/upland complex with a rich mosaic of healthy sedge meadow, shallow lake, oak savanna, prairie, shrubland and forest habitats. It encompasses a large wetland system at the confluence of four tributaries that feed high quality water to Rice and Skunk Lakes and the Platte River. The Rice-Skunk Lakes complex features one of the largest unaltered sedge meadow wetlands in Minnesota. This complex provides critical habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, sandhill cranes and many other species of birds. With the areas importance to breeding and migrating birds, the refuge is included in the Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge - Rice Skunk Wetland Complex, State Important Bird Area.
How to Get There
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located in Central Minnesota, approximately 30 miles north of St. Cloud and 8 miles southeast of Little Falls. From U.S. Highway 10, take Morrison County 35 east. Travel 4.5 miles to the Platte River Bridge. After crossing the bridge, take the first left to the Platte River Trailhead and Maintenance office.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge? 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 Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1359) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located in Central Minnesota, approximately 30 miles north of St. Cloud and 8 miles southeast of Little Falls. From U.S. Highway 10, take Morrison County 35 east. Travel 4.5 miles to the Platte River Bridge. After crossing the bridge, take the first left to the Platte River Trailhead and Maintenance office.
How do I contact Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 320-632-1575 or email: cranemeadows@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
