Whitewater River segments and maps

Map: Whitewater River

Limestone and sandstone bluffs overlook the Whitewater River as it winds through southeastern Minnesota to the Mississippi River. Be aware that there are no campsites or rest areas in the ecologically sensitive Whitewater Wildlife Management Area of the Whitewater River.

The river shares a map with the Zumbro River.

Explore on shore

Whitewater Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
There are no rest areas or campsites here, but the river passes through the Whitewater WMA. This is rugged coulee country, a "driftless area" missed by glaciers in the last ice age 12,000 years ago. Because of this, the erosive forces of water and wind have carved valleys with elevation differences of 500 feet in some areas, and there is a noticeable lack of mosquitoes.

Whitewater State Park
A few miles south of the river's north and south branch confluence in the city of Elba, Whitewater State Park offers trout fishing, swimming, hiking, nature programs and camping. Hike Chimney Rock Trail for dramatic bluffs and a scenic view of the Whitewater River, relax at the beach for a refreshing dip in the cold, spring-fed water, or visit the historic Elba fire tower.

Local contacts

DNR regional headquarters 
3555 Ninth Street NW, Suite 350, Rochester, MN 55901 
507-206-2847

Whitewater State Park 
19041 Highway 74, Altura, MN 55910 
507-312-2300

Nearest medical facilities

Olmsted Medical Clinic 
20 Second Avenue NE, Plainview, MN 55992 
507-534-3885

Paddling beneath hills and cliffs. 
Paddling beneath hills and cliffs.

 

Looking down over the river. 
Looking down over the river.

 

Whitewater River area map

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