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Minnesota
52

Minnesota State Parks

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USA Parks
Minnesota
Southern Region
Minneopa State Park
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Minneopa State Park Upper Falls © Todd Palmquist
Minneopa State Park Upper falls and autumn leaves.
Minneopa State Park Early Snowfall © Todd Palmquist
Minneopa State Park
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
Minneopa State Park Frozen Falls © Todd Palmquist
Minneopa State Park
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
Minneopa State Park © Stacey Schottey
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MINNEOPA STATE PARK
MINNEOPA STATE PARK
54497 Gadwall Road
Mankato, Minnesota   56001

Phone: 507-389-5464
Toll Free: 888-646-6367
Reservations: 866-857-2757
Email: park email button icon
The word Minneopa comes from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean "water falling twice," referring to the beautiful waterfalls of the Minneopa Creek. Walk the trail which encircles the falls, leading down a limestone stairway to the valley below. Ascend the opposite side and enjoy a panoramic view of the valley which reveals the underlying geology of this area. Visit Seppmann Mill, a wind driven grist mill fashioned in German style from native stone and lumber, or hike through oak savanna and native prairie grasslands overlooking the scenic Minnesota River Valley.
Nature of the Area
The southern part of the park is hilly and wooded, with Minneopa Creek and its waterfalls the major feature that attract visitors. The northern sections of the park feature prairie and the Minnesota River. Once, the land was tall-grass prairie, interspersed with marshes, lakes and streams. Today, extensive farming has replaced the prairie with cultivated fields.

The entire park lies within the banks of the Glacial River Warren which drained Glacial Lake Agassiz at the end of the last period of glaciation, some 15,000 years ago. These banks are easily viewed if a visitor looks north and south from the vantage point of Seppmann Mill. Also visible are the many large boulders scattered upon the prairie grassland which lies in the bed of that ancient river. These boulders, known as "glacial erratics," are made of parent material entirely different than that commonly found in this area. They were transported from a region far to the north and were deposited here by the melting ice of the retreating glacier. The word Minneopa is derived from the Dakota language and is interpreted to mean "water falling twice." As the retreating glacier melted and drainage patterns emerged, the valley of Minneopa Creek was formed. "Downcutting" occurred until a more resistant layer of rock was encountered and this layer forms the ledge from which the twin waterfall drops.

Minneopa is home to a wide variety of songbird species. Many migrants stop here for a short stay on their way to their summer range. It should come as no surprise then that birdwatching is a popular activity. Be prepared to see the eastern bluebird, the western meadowlark, and the yellow shafted flicker. Tree sparrows, king birds, red-winged blackbirds, red-tailed hawks, and even American bald eagles are common at various times of the year. If your eyes are sharp, you may catch a glimpse of a wild turkey or ring-necked pheasant sneaking through the grass. The white-tailed deer is never far away and campers are often treated to the call of a coyote announcing its presence in the early evening hours. Both woodland and prairie animals can be found in the park. The Minnesota River Floodplain area is home to various snakes, beaver, and waterfowl. The southern wooded part of the park is home to woodpeckers, squirrels, and other woodland animals.
History of the Area
In 1905 the State of Minnesota passed legislation setting aside the area around Minneopa Falls for public use and establishing Minneopa State Park. This made Minneopa the third state park in Minnesota. The scenic splendor of the area was well known and it had become a popular destination for thousands of visitors who came by rail to the townsite of Minneopa, which had sprung up around the adjacent depot in 1870. Still others made their way by steam powered paddle boat up the Minnesota River and then on foot following the banks of Minneopa Creek to the falls. Locals came from miles around by team and wagon to picnic and play baseball. The Seppmann windmill, in the northwest corner of the park was donated to the state by Albert Seppmann, son of its builder. Stone was used for the main structure, which still stands today. It was designed by Louis Seppmann after windmills in his native Germany. The mill was completed in 1864, and in a favorable wind could daily grind 150 bushels of wheat into flour. The windmill was struck by natural calamities, including lightening and a tornado. After the tornado struck in 1890, the windmill's arms were not replaced because windmills had become unprofitable to operate. This German-style mill is a rare example of wind-powered grain milling. In the late 1870's three years of consecutive grasshopper plagues wiped out all of the crops and the little town disappeared from the map. The depot continued to serve the thousands of tourists that came by train every summer to picnic near the falls.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in two scenic water bodies, Minneopa Creek and Minnesota River. Species include walleye, northern pike, catfish and smallmouth bass. Try your luck at the creek for a variety of trout species as well. Ice fishing is popular during winter months on both waters.



Picnicking
1. Minneopa State Park offers several picnic areas with tables and grills.
2. The park features a large, reservable picnic shelter for group events.
3. Picnic near the beautiful waterfalls or Bison Drive Range area.
4. Enjoy picnicking while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
5. Minnesota River provides scenic backdrop for riverside picnics at the park.

Bicycling
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the 5-mile loop trail, offering scenic views. Be aware of steep sections and loose gravel.

The park's terrain is varied with some challenging areas; it's not recommended for beginners or young children on bikes.

Bikers should be cautious as trails are shared with hikers and wildlife sightings are common - maintain a safe speed at all times.

Helmets must always be worn while biking in this area to ensure safety due to unpredictable terrains.

Remember that off-trail cycling isn't permitted here, so stick strictly to designated paths only.

Check weather conditions before setting out since certain parts may become difficult after rainfalls or snowfall events.

Ensure your bike is well-maintained prior riding these routes because mechanical issues could pose serious problems given the remote location.

Always carry water bottles along during rides considering there aren't many refill stations available throughout most of the route.


Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting a variety of species, including warblers and waterfowl. The park is home to bison herds which attract birds like meadowlarks and bobolinks. There are also trails that lead through diverse habitats for different bird sightings.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
February 14 Short walk to heaven... by ShaneG
park review stars; one to five My buddy and I spent 2 days camping at Minneopa State Park. Although the knats were unbearable, the short hike to the mouth of the Minneopa Creek when it meets the Minnesota River was well worth it. We ended up meeting a local Chemistry professor from Minnesota State University and he gave us the right idea on how to fish there. Caught a 40 lb Flathead Catfish and a 31 inch beautiful Walleye. That, coupled with the warm hearted professor and the beautiful view made the trip very worth while. I expect to come back again, same time this summer. :)
December 30 Undiscovered treasure
park review stars; one to five Minneapoa State Park is small compared to some state parks, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty and uniqueness.
March 27 My favorite park by TTYL loser
park review stars; one to five This was tho most wonderful vacation ever i really enjoyed myself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Directions
5 miles west of Mankato on State Highway 68 and U.S. Highway 169.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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