Basic Information

A prairie full of wildflowers on a clear summer day.
Coldwater Spring on a clear summer day.

NPS/Kyle Just

In the middle of a bustling urban setting, this 72 mile long river park offers quiet stretches for fishing, boating and canoeing. Other spots are excellent for birdwatching, bicycling and hiking. And there are numerous visitor centers and museums that highlight the history and science of the Mississippi River. If you are interested in the Mississippi, this park is a great place to start.
Unlike most other national parks, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is a "partnership" park. We own only 67 acres of the 54,000 acres within our borders. The rest is composed of city parks, regional parks, a state park, a national wildlife refuge, state scientific and natural areas, along with private businesses and homes. We work in partnership with those other units of government to bring additional services to both them and visitors and to preserve and protect the natural and cultural history of this great river.
Use the menu to explore this park and to plan your visit.
Use the "View Park Map" in the menu to get greater detail in the map below.
 

There are no visitor services at park headquarters. Please visit us at one of our Visitor Centers to speak with a park ranger.

 
A map showing the area of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Last updated: October 20, 2022

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

111 E. Kellogg Blvd., Suite 105
Saint Paul, MN 55101

Phone:

651-293-0200
This is the general phone line at the Mississippi River Visitor Center.

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