Wadena County’s Natural Gems Take the Spotlight During Parks and Recreation Month
July 11, 2024
For nearly 40 years each July, the nation has been celebrating National Parks and Recreation Month. The summer months are a particularly favorable time to explore Wadena County’s parks, recreational areas, nearby hiking trails, bodies of water, and natural wonders. Canoeing, hiking, camping, and diverse flora and fauna native to Minnesota are only a short drive away.
“Whether you’re looking for a day outside in fresh air, a field in which to host a sunny picnic celebration, or a camping spot for a weekend getaway, there are activities and experiences for everyone in and around Wadena County,” says Hope Williams, Executive Direct of the West Central Economic Development Alliance. “Our natural gems are a central part of what makes Wadena County such a wonderful place to live.”
Get to know some of the best parks in the area and create a plan to celebrate this month with picnics, day hikes, and other outdoor activities.
Visit Nearby State and Local Parks in Wadena County
You don't have to travel far to explore the national wonders of Minnesota. Each city in Wadena County has its own treasures. This July, check out just a few of the abundant parks and recreational options within and around Wadena County:
Parks:
- Blacks Grove Park - Located just west of Wadena, this park has hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
- Sunnybrook Park - A popular park in downtown Wadena
- Old Wadena Park & Campground - A county park with camping along the Crow Wing River
- Cottingham Park - Another county park with camping
Campgrounds:
- Anderson's Crossing Campground - Spanning 113 acres, home to Butterfly Rapids.
- Bullard's Bluff - An 80-acre secluded campsite once known as "Hog Heaven".
- Crow Wing River Campground - Located on 15 acres along the Crow Wing River.
- Frames' Landing Campground - Named after one of Nimrod's first settlers.
- Knob Hill Campground - A 150-acre secluded split-level campsite with access to rapids.
The National Park Service has an interactive map that allows you to find some of the best trails, preserves, and monuments around Wadena County. You can also use Find Your Park to discover some of the best places to explore nature in the region.
Many of these parks are designed to accommodate visitors of all activity levels. If traveling with little ones, there are stroller-friendly walkways or – for the more adrenaline-rush-inclined adventurer – advanced bike paths and rock climbing opportunities abound.
State and Local Parks Are Affordable and Easy to Get To
There are 63 National Parks across the United States. These range from the vast Grand Canyon to the memorial at Gettysburg. While these parks are beautiful, they can sometimes be difficult to get to. Fortunately, there are nearly 10,000 state parks across the country that protect 20 million acres of land. You can easily find several of these parks near Wadena County, including the expansive Crow Wing State Park, within just an hour’s drive from the county, and Huntersville State Forest- the largest park with connecting trails and access to Crow Wing river.
State parks are often more affordable for families and individuals to visit. Not only can you create unforgettable memories when you visit parks near Wadena County, but you can enjoy countless fun activities in nature on a budget.
Minnesota also has the opportunity to purchase a year-round State Parks Pass, which makes visiting its natural wonders even easier. The annual pass per vehicle costs $35 and gives you access to more than 75 parks. These passes often also offer discounts on campsites if you're looking for overnight adventures.
Visiting Local Parks Supports Regional Economic Development
There is a direct correlation between visiting state or local parks and economic development in Wadena County. The money you spend on park admission or annual passes helps the preserves hire park rangers and other stewards of our natural assets.
Your contribution also supports the upkeep of the parks, including the removal of invasive species and litter which can be harmful to local wildlife. This maintenance improves the quality of life of Wadena County and makes it a desirable place to live now and for future generations. Local parks can remain an asset that attracts residents to Wadena County and grow the overall workforce.
Even when admission is free, your visit to the local parks of Wadena County makes a difference. Parks monitor foot traffic and visitor counts in each preservation. Your attendance could lead to additional funding for the park and programs for kids, families, and adults alike.
“The WCEDA admires the hard work of the Parks and Recreation Department of Wadena County,” says Hope Williams. “Not only do they work to keep our local and state parks beautiful, but they also develop educational and entertaining programs that connect residents with the natural world around them. Their efforts are what make Wadena County such a wonderful place to live.
Make plans this July to explore the state and local parks of Wadena County. Don't forget your sunscreen, water, comfortable walking shoes, and bug spray. Always tell someone where you will be hiking and when you will be back. This will allow you to enjoy nature safely and return with positive memories.
Learn How West Central Economic Development Alliance Supports Quality of Life in Wadena County
The state parks in Wadena County are just one contributor to the quality of life in our region. The West Central Economic Development Alliance strives to support the child care, education, housing, and recreational assets of the area. Learn more about the hard work we do and how our efforts improve economic development in Wadena County.