SIGHTSEEING
Go to Afton State Park Dock and Picnic Area. It is a wonderful place to picnic and spend an afternoon. There is plenty of green space and a beach to spread out! Easy to access and it is a beautiful place for hiking. Don’t forget to wear proper footwear when you come here.
Afton State Park Dock and Picnic Area
ONE DAY TRIP IDEA
When you are ready to explore, start at the park's Nature Store where you can get data about the park's fauna and flora, or join a nature walk. After that, you can choose more than 20 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Besides, there is a short barrier free path as well. If you're visiting in winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
CAMPING
Afton State Park is a picturesque park with its camping in that they're pack-in and walk-in campgrounds here. There are no car camping or RV sites. It implies you'll park your vehicle in the parking lot, then get your gear up to a mile to your site!
It's additionally the most rustic campsite in the 7-county metro region. No flushes except in the Visitor's Center (which is not close to any of the camping), no showers, no electricity. However, there are water taps all through the zone with drinkable water.
When it comes to group camping, there are a few group campgrounds for tents. One of them accommodates small trailers. Those sites are very rustic with no electricity, no showers, and no flushes.
HEALTH ADVISORY
It is advised to make reservations and purchase your permits in advance. Bring your own soap, water, disinfectants, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and towels. Follow the rules and practice social distancing.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time of year to visit Afton State Park for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to early September.
BEST HOTELS AND RESORTS
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cottage Grove, MN is a hotel that is close to popular attractions. It offers ultimate comfort and satisfaction for all guests. Enjoy all property amenities and room features of this convenient hotel. In addition, kids can stay for free.
Enjoy your stay at Econo Lodge River Falls. This hotel offers a decent combination of comfort, value, and convenience. Besides, its family friendly setting and an array of facilities makes everyone stay conveniently here.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cottage Grove, MN
Econo Lodge River Falls
BEST RESTAURANTS
The Onion Grille is a chef driven eatery with a unique and eclectic dish. One of the unique things of this restaurant is its electric model train which goes around the whole restaurant on a track. This little preoccupation is fun for the children and adults alike as they sit tight for their dinner.
Meanwhile, Current Restaurant offers fresh, healthy, and lively menus made from organic ingredients. Don’t miss their delicious dishes such as Sesame Chicken, Caesar, Turkey Burger, Risotto, Walleye Sandwich, and many more.
The Onion Grille
Current Restaurant
BEST SOUVENIR SHOPS
Squire House Gardens is an enchanting gift shop offering specialties includes jewelry, scarves, accessories, home décor, and many more. Find your favorite items as you see the beautiful display gardens there.
Squire House Gardens
