Afton State Park

Afton State Park is a 1,200-acre natural space in Washington County featuring prairie lands, oak forests, deep ravines, and sandstone formations along the St. Croix River. The landscape displays varied geology with steep slopes descending from the upper area to the river plain below.

Minnesota established the park in 1969 to provide additional recreational land near Minneapolis-Saint Paul. This creation followed growing visitor numbers at nearby parks that needed more space for outdoor activities.

The park takes its name from Robert Burns' poem and a Scottish river that inspired early settlers in the region. Visitors can trace this literary connection while walking along the St. Croix River.

The park offers 20 miles of trails and 28 backpack-only camping sites that protect the natural environment from heavy use. Vehicle access is restricted to preserve the character of the experience for those exploring on foot.

An elevation change of roughly 300 feet between the bluff top and river edge creates multiple distinct ecological zones in a compact area. This variation in height supports different plant and animal communities that shift based on slope position and sun exposure.

Location: Washington County

Inception: 1969

Website: http://dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/afton

GPS coordinates: 44.86250,-92.78360

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44