If you’re not a fan of mosquitoes, then head to Whitewater State Park in southeastern Minnesota. This scenic driftless area is known for its lack of mosquitos as well as an abundance of wildlife, birds, and trout fishing. Additionally, you’ll find 10 miles of hiking trails, a nearby fire tower to climb, and a small sandy swimming beach. Next door is the 28,000-acre Whitewater Wildlife Management Area.
See my related Minnesota state park series.
- Take the Minnesota State Park Challenge – list of all the best MN state parks with reviews
- How to hike all 65 Minnesota state parks in a year
- Explore Minnesota State Parks on Free State Park Day
- Top Minnesota state parks with waterfalls – ranked!
Top things to do at Whitewater State Park in Altura, MN
Here are the top 10 things to do at Whitewater State Park in Altura, Minnesota.
- Hike the rugged trails for scenic bluff land views.
- Check out the cool Chimney Rock formation.
- Feel like you’re miles from civilization by climbing 100 stairs to Inspiration Point.
- Climb the historic 100-ft Elba fire tower in nearby Elba.
- Fish for brown, brook, and rainbow trout in Whitewater River or Trout Run Creek.
- Swim at Whitewater State Park’s sandy beach.
- Camp year-round in traditional tent and RV campsites, cart-in sites, or rustic cabins. Â
- Explore the visitor center’s exhibits and year-round interpretative programs.
- Watch for 50 different types of mammals and 250 bird species that call Whitewater State Park home.
- In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and snowshoeing (ungroomed trails).
Frequently asked questions about Whitewater State Park in Altura, Minnesota
Where is Whitewater State Park located? What is the address for Whitewater State Park?
Whitewater State Park is located at 19041 Highway 74, Altura, MN 55910. Note that GPS may take you down gravel roads (which I took). You can call the Whitewater State Park at 507.312.2301 for paved directions.
When is Whitewater State Park open?
Whitewater State Park is open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.
Is Whitewater State Park free? How much is the admission fee at Whitewater State Park?
Admission to Whitewater only costs $7 per vehicle per day ($5 per motorcycle). That includes unlimited visits to all Minnesota state parks on the same day.
However, I highly recommend an annual pass, which gives you entrance to all Minnesota state parks throughout the year. See the Minnesota DNR website for more information. And it’s highly recommended to pay online ahead of time. Minnesota state parks are no longer accepting cash self-payment envelopes on site.
You can also visit other Minnesota state parks for free four days each year. See my related post for this year’s free state park days. Admission to every Minnesota state park is free for all Minnesota state tribal members throughout the year.
Does Whitewater State Park have a fire tower you can climb? How tall is the fire tower at Whitewater State Park?
You can climb the historic 100-ft. fire tower in Elba, MN – just two miles from Whitewater State Park. The fire tower is typically open the end of May through late October.
Which Minnesota state parks have fire towers? Where can I climb fire towers in Minnesota?
You can climb several fire towers in Minnesota for the best views. Minnesota state parks and recreation areas featuring fire towers include:
- Big Bog State Recreation Area; Waskish, MN
- Itasca State Park; Itasca, MN
- Mille Lacs Kathio State Park; Onamia, MN
- St. Croix State Park; Hinckley, MN
- Whitewater State Park; Altura, MN (technically in nearby Elba, MN)
Additional fire and lookout observational towers you can climb in Minnesota include:
- Faunce Lookout Tower; Faunce, MN
- Forest History Center; Grand Rapids, MN
- Paul M. Thiede Fire Tower Park; Pequot Lakes, MN
While not as tall or as challenging as the fire and lookout towers, you can also climb the 80-foot Enger Tower in Duluth, Minnesota. Additionally, you can climb a spiral staircase to the base of the 102-foot Herman Monument in New Ulm, MN.
Does Whitewater State Park have a lake, river, or waterfall?
Yes. Whitewater State Park features the spring-fed Whitewater River and Trout Run Creek.
Can you fish at Whitewater State Park in Minnesota?
Yes. You can fish for brown, brook, and rainbow trout in Whitewater River or Trout Run Creek
Does Whitewater State Park have a swimming beach?
Yes. Whitewater State Park features an intimate sandy, swimming beach.
Can you boat at Whitewater State Park? Does Whitewater State Park offer a boat ramp?
No. The river and creek that runs through Whitewater State Park are too shallow for boats.
Does Whitewater State Park have a campground? Can you camp at Whitewater State Park?
Yes. Whitewater offers a variety of camping experiences year-round including:
- 110 drive-in campsites with 13 pull-throughs, and 85 electric sites
- 13 wheelchair-accessible campsites
- RV parking length: up to 50 feet
- 8 cart-in campsites
- 3 group camps: The RVs and tents group camp accommodates up to 40 campers; the two tents-only group camps accommodates up to 50 and 25 campers respectively
- Group Center – available year-round – features 8 cabins and accommodates up to 132 campers
- 4 cabins with heat and electricity available year-round (2 are accessible)
- 8 carry-in group camps (each accommodates up to 25 people)
See my related post: SUV camping 101: Guide for beginners with FAQs
How big is Whitewater State Park in Minnesota?
Whitewater State Park in Minnesota covers 2,700 acres.
Is Whitewater State Park buggy? Mosquitos? Ticks?
Seemingly, mosquitos stay away from Whitewater State Park. But I always apply and recommend picaridin and Aunt Fanny’s DEET-free mosquito wipes when hiking in Minnesota state parks.
How long and how difficult are the hiking trails at Whitewater State Park?
You’ll find 10 miles of hiking trails at Whitewater State Park. These trails range from easy to challenging and less than one mile to more than 4 miles. The scenic Inspiration Point Trail is pretty steep and has more than 100 stairs to climb up and down. If you’re a fan of stairs, then hike the Dakota Trail, which features more than 200.
Always check the alerts page on the Whitewater State Park site for any seasonal updates. For example, as of this publication date, the Trout Run Trail is closed temporarily due to recent storms.
Are hiking poles needed on the trails at Whitewater State Park?
I did not use my hiking poles at Whitewater State Park. However, you may want to bring them to navigate the steep inclines and hilly trails. You’ll also come across a couple of stairs along the way.
In the winter, you may want to wear crampons or metal spikes on your hiking boots as the stairs and trails can get pretty icy. And in the spring, make sure your hiking boots or shoes are waterproof as the trails get wet and muddy.
Also, I recommend bringing lots of water especially in the summer. Here’s my favorite water bottle for hiking.
Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails at Whitewater State Park?
While there are no groomed trails, you can snowshoe and cross-country ski throughout Whitewater State Park in the winter.
Can you snowmobile at Whitewater State Park?
No. Whitewater State Park does not feature snowmobile trails.
What are the best views at Whitewater State Park?
Whitewater State Park offers several scenic views. One of favorite spaces in Minnesota is Inspiration Point. It feels like you are miles away from everyone and everything. Nothing but trees, bluffs, and soaring birds.
Chimney Rock Trail also offers beautiful views of interesting rock formations, the Whitewater River, and turkey vultures and eagles.
See related post: Top 12 breathtaking views in Minnesota.
Are there bike trails at Whitewater State Park?
No. Whitewater State Park does not feature a bike trail.
Does Whitewater State Park feature equestrian trails?
Yes. Whitewater State Park does not feature equestrian trails. However, the nearby Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest does offer horseback riding trails.
Can you rock climb at Whitewater State Park? Which Minnesota state parks offer rock climbing? Where can I rock climb on the North Shore in Minnesota?
No. Whitewater State Park does not offer rock climbing.
Here is a list of the state parks in Minnesota where you can rock climb:
- Blue Mounds State Park (southwest Minnesota)
- Banning State Park (46 miles south of Whitewater State Park and on the way to the North Shore from the Twin Cities)
- Interstate State Park (aka Taylors Falls just north of the Twin Cities)
- Temperance River State Park (North Shore)
- Tettegouche State Park (Shovel Point and Palisade Head on the North Shore)
Does Whitewater State Park have a visitor center? Modern restrooms?
Yes. Whitewater State Park offers an interpretative visitor center. Here you can learn more about the land use, watershed, and trout fishing.
You’ll also find modern restrooms in the visitor center. More primitive toilets are also available year-round throughout the park.
Is Whitewater State Park dog-friendly?
Yes. Leashed dogs and pets are welcome on Whitewater State Park hiking trails. All Minnesota state parks welcome dogs except inside buildings and cabins (service dogs, of course, are allowed). Leashes must be six feet or less.
Are there bears and moose at Whitewater State Park? Other wildlife?
Bears and moose don’t seem to make it down to this part of Minnesota. However, Whitewater State Park is home to 50 different types of mammals and hundreds of birds. Look up and you’re apt to see turkey vultures and eagles soaring above your head. In late summer, you may come across a timber rattlesnake, a threatened species.
Is firewood available at Whitewater State Park?
Yes. Firewood is available for sale at Whitewater State Park when the visitor center is open or via the Yodel app. You can also purchase approved firewood at nearby stores or gas stations that sell certified wood.
To protect Minnesota trees, you can only burn certified wood on MN DNR land. Collection is not allowed in state parks and you may not bring firewood from home. This helps prevent spreading harmful insects and diseases.
How far is Whitewater State Park from the Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul (MSP) airport?
Whitewater State Park is located 99 miles from the Minneapolis – St. Paul (MSP) International Airport. It’s a perfect day trip from the Twin Cities.
What’s near Whitewater State Park? Top things to do near Whitewater State Park?
Here are the top things to do near Whitewater State Park in Minnesota.
- Neighboring Whitewater State Park is the 28,000-acre Whitewater Wildlife Management Area.
- Carley State Park is only 11 miles away from Whitewater State Park. If you’d like to hike all 65 Minnesota state parks in a year, these two state parks are close enough to explore in one day.
- Another one of my favorite and the best state parks for a scenic view of the Mississippi River is John A. Latsch State Park. Located 19 miles away from Whitewater State Park, I love the hiking trail here. There’s only one. And it’s only a half-mile. But this trail is not for the faint of heart. The hiking trail at John A. Latsch State Park is more than 600 steps up Mount Charity. A great cardio hike near Whitewater State Park.
- For another cardio climb, conquer the Elba Fire Tower. It’s only two miles from Whitewater State Park. Note that the 110-ft fire tower is open seasonally typically late May to mid-October.
- Minnesota’s third-largest city, Rochester, is located near Whitewater State Park. Rochester offers a lot of things to do and is only 23 miles away See my related post: Historical things to do in Rochester, Minn. Features a pioneer farmstead (and a cave where they lived the first winter), an 1860s log cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, and a vintage baseball field. Take the historic Mayowood Mansion tour (typically open March through October and Christmas). Like a good ghost story? Then check out one of my most popular posts: Guide to the most haunted places in Rochester, Minnesota. Explore Quarry Hill Nature Center and other hiking trails within 50 miles of Rochester, Minnesota.
- If you have kids or are a kid at heart, then stop by Larks Toy Store. Located 24 miles from Whitewater State Park, this toy store and antique toy museum also feature a hard-carved carousel, mini golf, a café, candy store, llamas, and more. See my related post: Guide to one of the coolest toy stores in the world: Lark Toy Store
- You will find the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest just 29 miles away from Whitewater State Park. This popular area for birdwatching also features 6 recreational areas, 10 campgrounds, 5 state water trails, hiking, horseback and cross-country skiing, mountain bike, and ATV trails, and a day-use area
- National Eagle Center is located in Wabasha, Minnesota and 30 miles from Whitewater State Park. Check out their bald eagle webcam overlooking the Mississippi River.
- Frontenac State Park is another top-ranked state park in Minnesota. Located 42 miles from Whitewater State Park, you’ll enjoy switchback trails overlooking Lake Pepin on the Mississippi River.
- The charming community of Winona set on the Mississippi River is only 25 miles from Whitewater State Park.
- Quaint Lanesboro – the Bed & Breakfast Capital of Minnesota – is located 31 miles from Whitewater State Park. It’s a great place to stay if camping is not your thing.
When was Whitewater State Park in Minnesota established?
Whitewater State Park was established in 1919.
Does Whitewater State Park have whitewater rapids?
No. Whitewater State Park does not have whitewater rapids.
How did Whitewater State Park get its name?
Whitewater State Park is named after the river that runs through it. And despite its name, there are no whitewater rapids in this state park. It’s believed that the name is translated from a Native American word that means clear or white water.
Does Whitewater State Park host deer hunts? Is Whitewater State Park closed during deer season?
Yes. Whitewater State Park hosts a deer hunt closes the park for a couple of days to the public. Typically, this deer hunt is scheduled in November.
For a complete list of which Minnesota state parks are closed or limited to non-hunters during deer season, see this related post: Hiker safety: MN state parks that host deer hunts.
Hiking safety tip during deer season: Wear bright orange when hiking during deer season. I typically avoid hiking at all even if the state park is partially open to non-hunters.
A list of the best Minnesota state parks
All Minnesota state parks are the best in my opinion. You can read reviews of each one to create your own list of top-ranked Minnesota state parks: Take the Minnesota state park challenge
- Afton State Park | Hastings, MN (26 miles)
- Banning State Park | Sandstone, MN (97 miles)
- Bear Head Lake State Park | Ely, MN (240 miles)
- Beaver Creek Valley State Park | Caledonia, MN (148 miles)
- Big Stone Lake State Park | Ortonville, MN (186 miles)
- Blue Mounds State Park | Luverne, MN (208 miles)
- Buffalo River State Park | Glyndon, MN (240 miles)
- Camden State Park | Lynd, MN (161 miles)
- Carley State Park | Plainview, MN (88 miles)
- Cascade River State Park | Lutsen, MN (257 miles)
- Charles A. Lindbergh State Park | Little Falls, MN (112 miles)
- Crow Wing State Park | Brainerd, MN (134 miles)
- Father Hennepin State Park | Isle, MN (113 miles)
- Flandrau State Park | New Ulm, MN (93 miles)
- Forestville / Mystery Cave State Park | Preston, MN (115 miles)
- Fort Ridgely State Park | Fairfax, MN (99 miles)
- Fort Snelling State Park | Bloomington / St. Paul, MN (2 miles)
- Franz Jevne State Park | Birchdale, MN (336 miles)
- Frontenac State Park | Frontenac, MN (62 miles)
- George H. Crosby Manitou State Park | Finland, MN (231 miles)
- Glacial Lakes State Park | Starbuck, MN (156 miles)
- Glendalough State Park | Battle Lake, MN (194 miles)
- Gooseberry Falls State Park | Two Harbors, MN (197 miles)
- Grand Portage State Park | Grand Portage, MN (308 miles)
- Great River Bluffs State Park | Winona, MN (136 miles)
- Hayes Lake State Park | Roseau, MN (343 miles)
- Hill Annex Mine State Park | Calumet, MN (197 miles) Editorial Note: This park is now closed as mining has resumed.
- Interstate State Park / Taylors Falls State Park | Taylors Falls, MN (56 miles)
- Itasca State Park | Park Rapids, MN (219 miles)
- Jay Cooke State Park | Carlton, MN (146 miles)
- John A. Latsch State Park | Winona, MN (99 miles)
- Judge C.R. Magney State Park | Grand Marais, MN (282 miles)
- Kilen Woods State Park | Lakefield, MN (153 miles)
- Lac qui Parle State Park | Watson, MN (141 miles)
- Lake Bemidji State Park | Bemidji, MN (230 miles)
- Lake Bronson State Park | Karlstad, MN (409 miles)
- Lake Carlos State Park | Alexandria, MN (152 miles)
- Lake Louise State Park | Le Roy, MN (113 miles)
- Lake Maria State Park | Monticello, MN (60 miles)
- Lake Shetek State Park | Currie, MN (168 miles)
- Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park | Soudan, MN (229 miles)
- McCarthy Beach State Park | Side Lake, MN (227 miles)
- Maplewood State Park | Pelican Rapids, MN (217 miles)
- Mille Lacs Kathio State Park | Onamia, MN (108 miles)
- Minneopa State Park | Mankato, MN (82 miles)
- Monson Lake State Park | Sunburg, MN (141 miles)
- Moose Lake State Park | Moose Lake, MN (116 miles)
- Myre-Big Island State Park | Albert Lea, MN (93 miles)
- Nerstrand Big Woods State Park | Nerstrand, MN (52 miles)
- Old Mill State Park | Argyle, MN (350 miles)
- Rice Lake State Park | Owatonna, MN (70 miles)
- St. Croix State Park | Hinckley, MN (105 miles)
- Sakatah Lake State Park | Waterville, MN (60 miles)
- Savanna Portage State Park | Northeast Aitkin, MN (149 miles)
- Scenic State Park | Bigfork, MN (232 miles)
- Schoolcraft State Park | Deer River, MN (198 miles)
- Sibley State Park | New London, MN (128 miles)
- Split Rock Creek State Park | Jasper, MN (202 miles)
- Split Rock Lighthouse State Park | Two Harbors, MN (204 miles)
- Temperance River State Park | Schroeder, MN (239 miles)
- Tettegouche State Park | Silver Bay, MN (217 miles)
- Upper Sioux Agency State Park | Granite Falls, MN (122 miles) – Note: Minnesota returned this park’s land to the Native Americans in February 2024. It is no longer open to the public.
- Whitewater State Park | Altura, MN (99 miles)
- Wild River State Park | Center City, MN (58 miles)
- William O’Brien State Park | Scandia / Marine on the St. Croix, MN (43 miles)
- Zippel Bay State Park | Williams, MN (345 miles)
Pin it for later: A local’s guide to Whitewater State Park in Minnesota
Please share and pin this guide for when you visit the scenic and potentially mosquito-free Whitewater State Park in MN.
I just drove through this area on a road trip and missed Whitewater State Park. I wished I had known about it beforehand, but will keep it on my list for next time.
That’s unfortunate. I hope you get the opportunity to explore Whitewater the next time you visit.
You had me at no mosquitos!! Chimney Rock looks so cool. We have so many amazing state parks in MN!
We are blessed to have so many awesome state parks in Minnesota. Love Whitewater!
Great post!! I hate hate mosquitosss so this park looks like the best place to hike in SE Minnesota! Great tipsss!!!
Thank you so kindly! Awesome to find a place to hike where the mosquitoes are not noticeable.
What a beautiful park! Can you walk down/wade through the streams? That seems like it would be fun.
Whitewater State Park is so pretty. There is a swimming beach on the river so can definitely take a dip.
If we plan to visit the Whitewater State Park in the summer it looks like we will have lots to see and do. We would definitely want to check out the Chimney Rock and climb high for panoramic views. Great to know there is even a beach to cool off after all the hiking.
Whitewater State Park is so fun in the summer. The hiking is so beautiful and the swimming beach is a perfect respite.
I always get eaten by the mozzies on my hikes so I appreciate there’s a hike that there’s no mozzies! I’d love to road trip here, spend some time exploring this state park and camping on the grounds. I love xc skiing so would be nice to see it in the winter!
Whitewater State Park is the perfect spot in Minnesota for all that. Such a beautiful park.
This looks so stunning! I hope I get to visit some day!
I hope you get the opportunity to visit Whitewater State Park. Such lovely views.
The hike in Whitewater State Park in Altura, MN looks fun and peaceful. I like the idea of climbing the stairs but still being able to enjoy the green surroundings.
Such lovely hikes and scenic views at Whitewater State Park. Love climbing the stairs.
I’m not much of a hiker, but I do like to walk and this looks like a walk I would enjoy. Thanks for the inspiration.
You’re welcome and my pleasure. There are some easier trails to walk at Whitewater State Park.
The rock formations on Chimney Rock Trail look amazing. Also, I would love to climb a fire tower. I hope to visit someday!
I hope you get the opportunity! Love Whitewater State Park.
Whitewater looks so beautiful! I have friends who live in Minnesota, I will have to suggest a visit next time I’m there!
I hope you get the opportunity to hike Whitewater State Park. Love the hiking trails and scenic views.
I like all the greenery and views at Whitewater State Park in Altura, it’d be nice to go for a walk with nature. And, I would like to see the rock formations.
The rock formations are pretty cool at Whitewater State Park. Such a beautiful place to hike.
The river looks pretty tame for a river with the name Whitewater. Beautiful State Park.
The name is definitely misleading. From my understanding it got its name because the water looked white at times.
White Water State Park looks like a beautiful place to go for a hike! If we ever visit this area, I would love to explore!
I hope you get the opportunity. So many beautiful views at Whitewater State Park.