Best Time to Visit Minnesota National Parks
Minnesota has 5 National Park Service units that report visitation. Below, each is ranked by annual visits, with the month our data recommends for the best balance of light crowds, comfortable weather and daylight. Crowds peak in summer almost everywhere — the recommended months show where the quieter shoulder seasons fall.
| Park | Annual visits | Best time | Busiest | Quietest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint CroixNational Scenic Riverway | 852,296 | June | Jul | Dec |
| MississippiNational River & Recreation Area | 224,722 | September | Jul | Dec |
| VoyageursNational Park | 206,326 | April | Aug | Dec |
| Grand PortageNational Monument | 85,734 | May | Aug | Jan |
| PipestoneNational Monument | 83,033 | June | Jul | Jan |