• Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

    Mississippi

    National River & Recreation Area Minnesota

Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Located near Cottage Grove, MN. Parking at the corner of Hadley Avenue and 103rd St., and at the end of 110th Street.

 
directions
Get Directions
 
Two hikers cross the sand dunes towards the tree-lined shores of the Mississippi River under blue skies.

Overview
The Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area was acquired by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resource in 1998.

Grey Cloud Dunes Scientific and Natural Area is a rare prairie with dunes rising in waves cresting 10 to 20 feet.

Distinct plant communities are present throughout the area, including little bluestem, penstemon, prairie dropseed, sand reed grass, gramma grass, and silky prairie clover plants. Tree species consist of elm, silver maple, cottonwood, and box elder. Blue racers, an uncommon Minnesota snake, and prairie skinks are also present.

Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas protect rare, fragile, communities of plants and animals, as well are unusual geology. Tread lightly. Understand the regulations that help protect these unique areas.

Activities: Hiking, birding, wildflowers, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Hours: Please call for more information.

Contact Information: Call the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources at (651) 259-5088.

 
 

Related Activities: Birds & Wildlife, Natural History, Hiking & Walks, Winter Recreation

 

Sites Nearby: Grey Cloud Island

 
arrow left

Places to Go

Did You Know?

Mississippi River Watershed

The Mississippi River Basin, or watershed, drains 41% of the continental United States including 31 states and 2 Canadian provinces.