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WhenToVisitParks

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.

ParkAnnual visitsBest timeBusiestQuietest
Saint CroixNational Scenic Riverway852,296JuneJulDec
MississippiNational River & Recreation Area224,722SeptemberJulDec
VoyageursNational Park206,326AprilAugDec
Grand PortageNational Monument85,734MayAugJan
PipestoneNational Monument83,033JuneJulJan