Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Kinnickinnic State Park encompasses approximately 1,242 acres along the Kinnickinnic River, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and excellent trout fishing opportunities. The park’s landscape features a combination of hardwood forests, river valleys, and prairie openings, creating diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife, including river otters, bald eagles, and migrating songbirds. Founded in 1972, the park preserves the natural state of this cold-water trout stream ecosystem while providing access for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore over 8 miles of trails that wind through wooded slopes and riverbanks, offer spectacular vantage points, and connect to interpretive nature paths highlighting the area's geology and ecological significance. The park also contains picnicking areas, a popular campground with developed sites, and the renowned Kinnickinnic River, which supports both fly fishing and catch-and-release fishing. Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on maintained trails. The nearby city of River Falls acts as a gateway with amenities including visitor information and local dining. The park’s peaceful river scenes combined with forested trails make it a favored destination for anglers, hikers, bird watchers, and campers looking for a quiet natural setting within easy reach of urban areas. The Kinnickinnic River itself is its centerpiece, known for supporting a robust population of native brown trout and brook trout, making it a prized location for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.
