Hastings River Flats Park

Places to Go

NPS/Gordon Dietzman

Introduction

The 215 acre Hastings River Flats Park is the largest natural area set aside within the Hastings park system. While the park is managed by the City of Hastings, parts of the park are owned by the Army Corp of Engineers, Flint Hills Resources, as well as the City of Hastings. The Mississippi River forms the eastern boundary of the park while Lake Rebecca forms the west boundary. Lock and Dam #2 lies on the north edge of the park, making this location a great place to watch river traffic as it locks through the dam. Piers permit access to the river and good views up and down the river. Prairie restorations blanket much of the park lending the striking color of wildflowers to the landscape.

History

The park was first used for cropland and agriculture, then was used as a petroleum storage tank site before becoming a park. The City of Hastings developed a master plan for the site that included an interpretive center and an amphitheatre envisioning mixed uses and developed park facilities. A network of partners, including Friends of the Mississippi River, National Park Service, and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources developed a plan that led to restoration of native habitats withinin the park.

Activities

Very good views of the Mississippi River await the visitor as well as opportunities for fishing, walking and biking. The trails tie into the larger Hastings area trail system (download a trail map) and offer many miles of biking or walking opportunities. Prairie wildflower viewing in spring, summer, and fall. Watch for bald eagles and waterfowl along the river and downstream from Lock and Dam #2.

Biking, Birds & Wildlife, Fishing & Hunting, Natural History, Hiking & Walks, Boating & Canoeing, Picnicking

Hours, Directions, and Contact Information

• 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted
• Call the City of Hastings Parks and Recreation at [phone]
• 415 Lock & Dam Rd. Hastings, MN 55033
• GPS: 44.746477, -92.857550