Mississippi Headwaters State Forest, State forest at Mississippi River headwaters, Minnesota.
Description
Mississippi Headwaters State Forest is a state-managed forest in Minnesota covering roughly 45,000 acres with northern hardwoods and evergreens. The landscape is shaped by numerous lakes and streams that wind through the wooded terrain.
History
The forest was established as a protected area in 1935 to safeguard the region's natural resources. Management responsibility has been shared between local counties and Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources since its creation.
Culture
Native peoples including the Ojibwe and Dakota historically relied on this forest for food, medicine, and materials, a relationship that shaped how this land is understood and valued. Walking through the forest today, you can sense this deep connection between people and the natural landscape.
Practical
Multiple trails allow for hiking, mountain biking, and snowmobiling, with designated areas for camping, hunting, and water activities. Plan for varied terrain and check seasonal conditions, as the forest offers different experiences depending on the time of year.
Did you know?
The forest sits near Lake Itasca, where the Mississippi River originates and begins its 2,300-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. This proximity to one of North America's greatest rivers makes it a meaningful destination for those curious about geography and American history.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Beltrami County).
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
14 km
Itasca State Park
24.8 km
Lake Bemidji State Park
21.3 km
Waldsee
27.6 km
Rabideau CCC Camp
44.4 km
Paul Bunyan State Forest
24.1 km
Nevis Tiger Muskie
55.1 km
Bemidji Carnegie Library
14.1 km
Beltrami County Courthouse
13.9 km
Nymore Bridge
13.9 km
David Park House
14.6 km
Gran Evangelical Lutheran Church
34.2 km
Hubbard County Courthouse
57.6 kmDebs Consolidated School
33.1 km
White Earth State Forest
21.6 km
Lake Bemidji State Park CCC/NYA/Rustic Style Historic Resources
20.5 km
Sandtrap Golf Course
33.4 km
Aiton Heights Fire Tower
29.7 km
Height of Land Lookout Tower
40.7 km
Schoolcraft Fire Tower
10.3 km
Cuba Hill Lookout Tower
44.2 km
Rabideau Civilian Conservation Corps Camp Picnic Shelter
44.4 km
Blackduck Lookout Tower
47 km
Pinewood Fire Tower
16.7 km
Smoky Hills Lookout Tower
59 km
Kabekona Lookout Tower
28.2 km
Tulaby Lookout Tower
52.9 km
LaSalle Lookout Tower
16.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes