Sibley State Park

Sibley State Park is a protected natural area covering 3,400 acres with forests, lakes, and wetlands across rolling terrain. Mount Tom stands as the highest point and features a viewing shelter near its summit where visitors can see across the region.

The park was established in 1919 and named after Henry Hastings Sibley, Minnesota's first governor. During the 1930s, workers from conservation programs built infrastructure including trails and structures that remain in use today.

The land management practices reflect the transition from Native American traditions of fire management and bison grazing to European settlement patterns of forestation.

The park offers camping areas, hiking trails, and swimming at Lake Andrew along with seasonal educational programs. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and wear sturdy footwear when exploring the terrain.

The viewing shelter atop Mount Tom required an upper level addition in the 1990s after tree growth obstructed the original panoramic views. This renovation reflects how natural succession gradually changed what visitors could see from the summit.

Location: Kandiyohi County

Inception: 1919

Website: https://dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00265

GPS coordinates: 45.31970,-95.02310

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:08