The Saint Croix National Scenic River, located in the Upper Midwest region of the United States, spans an impressive 252 miles through the states of Wisconsin and Minnesota. Considered one of the most picturesque and pristine river systems in the country, it showcases stunning natural beauty and provides a plethora of recreational opportunities for visitors.
The historical background of the Saint Croix National Scenic River is rich and captivating. The region has been inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota, Ojibwe, and Ho-Chunk, for centuries. European explorers and fur traders, most notably the French and British, began to settle in the area in the 17th century. Eventually, the river became a hub for logging and milling industries in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, due to local conservation efforts, the Saint Croix River and its surroundings were designated as a National Scenic Riverway in 1968, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Visitors to the Saint Croix National Scenic River can partake in numerous activities that embrace the natural splendor of the area. Canoeing and kayaking are immensely popular, allowing adventurers to navigate the river's gentle currents and explore its tranquil surroundings. Fishing enthusiasts will also revel in the opportunities to catch various species of fish, including walleye, smallmouth bass, and muskie.
The riverway is home to several breathtaking hiking trails, offering sweeping views of the surrounding bluffs, forests, and waterfalls. Wildlife lovers will be delighted by the chance to spot bald eagles, white-tailed deer, otters, and even black bears in their natural habitats.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, scenic boat tours are available, providing a relaxing and informative journey along the river. Camping sites are abundant along the riverbanks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Saint Croix National Scenic River overnight.
Furthermore, the Saint Croix National Scenic River is located in close proximity to several attractions of historical and cultural significance. Across the river, visitors can explore the charming riverside town of Taylors Falls, Minnesota, which features 19th-century architecture, antique shops, and picturesque dining options. Additionally, visitors can venture to the nearby Interstate State Park, where the rocky Dalles of the St. Croix River provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
In conclusion, the Saint Croix National Scenic River stands as a testament to the beauty of America's natural landscapes. With its historical significance, abundant recreational activities, and proximity to nearby attractions, it promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its picturesque shores.
Saint Croix National Scenic River is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled within the picturesque state of Minnesota. This stunning river flows for approximately 169 miles along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, making it a truly unique and treasured location. The scenic river is a part of the Saint Croix River, one of the Mississippi River's largest tributaries. Encapsulated by towering bluffs, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, the location of Saint Croix National Scenic River showcases the region's remarkable geographical diversity and provides visitors with a serene and awe-inspiring experience. Whether it's exploring the tranquil waters by kayak or immersing oneself in the surrounding landscapes, the location of Saint Croix National Scenic River is truly an enchanting destination for nature lovers.
401 North Hamilton StreetSt. Croix Falls, WI 54024Driving DirectionsPhone: 7154832274Web: Link
The best time to visit Saint Croix National Scenic River would be during the months of June, July, and August. These months have the highest average maximum temperatures, ranging from 77°F to 82°F, and the lowest average minimum temperatures, ranging from 56°F to 61°F. Additionally, these months have average monthly precipitation between 4.1 to 4.2 inches, which is consistent with the rest of the year. This timeframe will provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Some of the activities you can do in Saint Croix National Scenic River are: Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Camping Hiking Boating Motorized Boating Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Tubing Freshwater Fishing Fly Fishing Citizen Science
Learn about these topics at Saint Croix National Scenic River: Animals Birds Fish Trails Water Trails Natural Sounds
Hours of operation are 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily including all federal holidays. The St. Croix River Visitor Center is open seasonally, from mid-April through October. When open, visitors can view exhibits, pick up park publications, Junior Ranger booklets, and maps, and view the park film. Park rangers offer trip planning assistance for the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers. The park headquarters offices are also located in this building along the St. Croix River.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: St. Croix River Visitor Center.
19, primitive, Leave No Trace campsites are located on this reach from below Highway 8 down to the Boom Site Landing near Stillwater, Minnesota. An annual camping permit is required to camp. The District also consists of Minnesota and Wisconsin state park properties with campgrounds.
Fees (US$): 0.00 (Campsite Fees)
Total Campsites: 19
Toilets: No Toilets
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water
57, primitive, Leave No Trace campsites are located on the St. Croix River from Riverside Landing to Highway 8 at St. Croix Falls - Taylors Falls. All sites are free. No permit required. Camp only in designated sites marked with brown camping sign and metal fire ring. Sites are available first-come, first-served.
Fees (US$): 0.00 (Campsite Fees)
Total Campsites: 57
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Water
67, primitive, Leave No Trace camp sites are located on the Namekagon River from Namekagon Dam to the confluence of the St Croix River and on the St. Croix River from Gordon Dam to Riverside Landing. All sites are free. No permit required. Camp only in designated sites marked with brown camping sign and metal fire ring. Sites are available first-come, first-served.
Fees (US$): 0.00 (Campsite Fees)
Total Campsites: 67
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: Water
With a stay at AmericInn by Wyndham New Richmond in New Richmond, you'll be a 4-minute walk from New Richmond Heritage Center and within a 5-minute drive of 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in New Richmond? This hotel has 20 square feet (2 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1020 S Knowles Ave, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
Located in Stillwater, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Stillwater, MN is a 1-minute drive from Lift Bridge Brewing Company and 5 minutes from Warden's House Museum. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2000 Washington Avenue, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Web: Link
When you stay at Coratel Inn & Suites New Richmond in New Richmond, you'll be connected to a shopping center, within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1561 Dorset Ln, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
Located in Stillwater, Water Street Inn is within a 15-minute drive of Willow River State Park and Float Rite Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Event facilities at this hotel consist of a conference center and a meeting room. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 101 Water St South, Stillwater, Minnesota 55082
Web: Link
With a stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Forest Lake, MN in Forest Lake, you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Running Aces Harness Park and WineHaven Winery and Vineyard. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1954 West Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
Web: Link
Located in St Croix Falls, AmeriVu Inn and Suites - St. Croix Falls is within a 5-minute drive of St. Croix Festival Theatre and Interstate State Park. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 726 S Vincent St, St Croix Falls, Wisconsin 54024
Web: Link
With a stay at AmericInn by Wyndham Forest Lake, you'll be centrally located in Forest Lake, within a 15-minute drive of Running Aces Harness Park and WineHaven Winery and Vineyard. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1291 W Broadway Ave, Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
Web: Link
A stay at Amerivu Inn And Suites New Richmond places you in the heart of New Richmond, within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and New Richmond Golf Club. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 814 North Knowles Ave, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
With a stay at Best Western Plus New Richmond Inn & Suites in New Richmond, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of New Richmond Heritage Center and 45th Parallel Distillery. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in New Richmond? This hotel has 419 square feet (39 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 240 Paperjack Dr, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-04-07 | St. Croix National Scenic Riverway to Conduct Prescribed Fires: April 14-May 31 Prescribed burns are planned for this spring throughout the national park. More |
| 2026-01-20 | St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Seeks Final Input on River Management Plan The park announces a final opportunity for input on its Comprehensive River Management Plan. More |
| 2026-01-15 | Pile Burning: Winter 2026 A series of piles are to be burned this winter season throughout the national park. More |
| 2024-12-19 | Historic Gibson Cabin restored with Great American Outdoors Act funding Great American Outdoors Act provides funding for historic cabin. More |
| 2024-11-26 | St. Croix National Scenic Riverway to Conduct Pile Burning at Two Location In early December, St. Croix National Scenic Riverway will be burning brush and wood piles in two locations along the Riverway corridor. More |
| 2024-11-21 | Environmental Assessment Completed for Fairy Falls Day Use Area Site Plan The National Park Service has concluded an Environmental Assessment finding the proposed site plan for the Fairy Falls Day Use Area at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway will cause no significant environmental impact to the area. More |