Snapshot virtual tour
Welcome to the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area virtual tour! The area is great for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or snowmobiling. However you choose to explore, you’ll cross diverse landscapes that include wetlands, floodplain forest and blufftop oak savanna. We hope it prompts you to visit the park in person sometime soon.
Horseshoe LakeJust minutes from the Twin Cities, this state recreation area preserves part of the Minnesota River Valley. This area offers diverse habitats that include wetlands, floodplain forest, and blufftop oak savanna. Horseshoe Lake is one of the best spots in the Lawrence Unit of the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area to see migrating songbirds and waterfowl in large numbers.
Minnesota RiverThe massive Glacial River Warren shaped the Minnesota River Valley 11,000 years ago. The erosive force from the glacial meltwater excavated a valley 320 miles long, up to five miles wide, and 250 feet deep. Today, only a relatively small and placid Minnesota River meanders along the valley floor.
Lawrence UnitThis trail offers some beautiful views of the Minnesota River, but be sure to bring your bug spray.
Equestrian Day Use ParkingHorseback riding is very popular at the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area with its many miles of scenic trails.
Equestrian CampgroundBring your horse, enjoy the trails, and stay for the whole weekend at the equestrian campground. Each campsite in this open area has a picnic table, fire ring, and hitching post.
Trail CenterPark your vehicle at the trail center to enjoy a picnic lunch or to start an afternoon on the trails. Even if it rains, the trail center building will have you covered.
S. B. Strait HouseThe S. B. Strait House is all that remains of the paper town of St. Lawrence. The town was planned on paper, but attempts to draw settlers to the area failed. New arrivals to the area decided to lay down roots in nearby Jordan and Shakopee instead of St. Lawrence.
Minnesota River ValleyIt can be a difficult hike up this sand dune, but you will be rewarded with an incredible view of the Minnesota River.
Thompson Ferry Picnic AreaEnjoy a picnic lunch near the river. Spread out with family or friends at several picnic tables available at this location.
River at Thompson FerryTry your luck at fishing near the Thompson Ferry Boat Landing along the Minnesota River.
Trail Site 2Park in the nearby lot and then hit the paved trail for an afternoon of biking.
Paved Trail in ShakopeeEnjoy a bike ride or walk along the Minnesota River on this paved trail through Shakopee.
Thompson Ferry LandingThe boat landing at Thompson Ferry offers access to the Minnesota River and has plenty of parking.
Trail Site 2 Parking - WinterStart your snowmobile ride here at the parking area north of Highway 41, across the river from Chaska.
Louisville Swamp ViewSnowshoers will delight in snowy trails on the neighboring Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Thompson Ferry in WinterSnowmobilers may enjoy views of the frozen river near Thompson Ferry.
Beason LakeWinter offers opportunities for those who enjoy skiing or snowshoeing. Visitors may trek along miles of un-groomed trails.
Lawrence Unit Trail CenterSnowmobiling is a popular recreational activity along the Minnesota Valley State Trail each winter.
Minnesota Valley State TrailThe Minnesota Valley State Trail links up with many local snowmobile trails along the way.
