Savanna State Forest

Savanna State Forest is a large state forest covering multiple counties with a mix of woodlands, wetlands, and water bodies throughout its area. The Upper Mississippi River runs through the forest, creating a diverse landscape of open spaces and dense forest patches.

The area is connected to the Savanna Portage, a historic trade route that once linked the Mississippi River to the Saint Lawrence River drainage system. This portage was essential for commerce and travel through the region in earlier times.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources manages this forest to maintain natural habitats while supporting recreational activities for local communities.

The forest offers trails for walking and hiking along with fishing and seasonal hunting opportunities for visitors. Multiple access points allow visitors to enter different sections of the forest, with trail conditions varying by season.

The forest features observation towers that provide views across its landscape and allow visitors to see across large distances. These elevated vantage points are particularly valuable for spotting wildlife and understanding how the forest is organized across its terrain.