Schoolcraft State Park

Schoolcraft State Park is a 225-acre natural area with wooded riverbanks along the Mississippi River in Cass and Itasca counties. The park contains multiple trails that wind through dense forest and riverside landscapes.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources established this park in 1959 to protect the natural environment along the Mississippi River. Its creation was part of broader efforts to preserve important river ecosystems across the state.

The park bears the name of Henry Schoolcraft, an explorer who documented the Mississippi River's source with help from Anishinabe people. This naming reflects the important role indigenous nations played in mapping this region.

The park opens for overnight camping from April through September with 30 campsites available through online and phone reservations. Visitors should know that facilities operate seasonally, so planning a visit during warmer months works best for camping experiences.

The river widens noticeably at this location, creating excellent paddling conditions for kayaking and canoeing. These natural expansions of the waterway make this section especially rewarding for visitors who enjoy water sports.

Location: Cass County

Location: Itasca County

Inception: 1959

Address: 9042 Schoolcraft Lane NE, Deer River, MN 56636

Phone: +12183288982

Email: schoolcraft.statepark@state.mn.us

Website: https://dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00263#homepage

GPS coordinates: 47.22470,-93.79970

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:02