Crow Wing State Park in Brainerd: Best Hikes, History, and Tips
Crow Wing State Park is a great place to visit for Minnesota getaways. There are so many things to do at Crow Wing State Park, with outdoor activities year-round.
You’ll find fishing spots, hiking trails, camping sites, and activities for both sunny summer days and snowy winter adventures.
Enjoy a quiet hike on forest trails or ride your bike on nearby paths by the campground. All these activities make Crow Wing State Park a top spot for a Brainerd-area trip.
My husband told me something I didn’t realize about myself until this trip. Some people live for food; I live for a perfect hike.
The ride up to Crow Wing State Park was a little stressful. We decided to hike before our cabin trip with the extended family.
Time was tight, but we were confident the hour detour to Crow Wing would be worth it. As I got out of the car, every worry melted away. Sun on my face, a cool breeze, and a river-side trail were exactly what I needed.
What’s So Special About Crow Wing State Park in Brainerd, MN?
Crow Wing State Park is a classic slice of the North Woods. It has plenty to do, including fishing, boating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. In winter, check current trail grooming updates with the park office.
The park is home to deer, beavers, foxes, bald eagles, hawks, and more. The scenery features both the Crow Wing River and the Mississippi River.
The Beginning of Crow Wing State Park
The land at Crow Wing State Park in Brainerd, Minnesota, is the homeland of the Ojibwe. In the 1800s, it became a logging area and small settlement.
In 1823, a fur post was established along the oxcart route that ran through what would become Old Crow Wing. By the 1860s, the town was a trade center with over 500 residents.
As rail routes shifted, the town declined. The Crow Wing Historical Society helped create the state park in 1959, preserving the site’s history and river confluence.
Things to Do at Crow Wing State Park
Crow Wing State Park Hiking Club Trail
Miles: 2.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
We set out to notch another Minnesota State Parks Hiking Club trail. Of all the club trails, this one is a favorite.
The flat paths and constant river views make it great for all ages. My youngest doesn’t love hills, so this trail is perfect for happy legs and happy hikers.
Whether you are camping or on a day trip, you’ll likely drive to a lot near the campground. Park at the boat launch, Father Pierz Chapel, or the upper picnic area.
We parked at the picnic area and took a spur to the river. It leads directly to the Old Crow Wing townsite and boardwalk. Take time to read the history signs.
Follow the hiking trail along the river. About 80 percent of the trail hugs the water, with short stretches through the trees.
The trail highlights include the historic Oxcart Trail Ford, where people once crossed the river, Chippewa Lookout, and Father Pierz Chapel before looping back.
Have you started the MN State Parks Hiking Club yet? It’s a fun way to explore the best trails in each park. Learn more by clicking here.
Other Things to Do at Crow Wing State Park
Camping at Crow Wing State Park
Camping here is peaceful and convenient. Drive-in sites fit tents or small RVs, and many have picnic tables and fire rings. Reserve sites on the MN DNR website. Firewood is sold at the park office; use only approved firewood to prevent pests.
The park is close to Brainerd, so you can grab supplies or plan fun side trips in town.
If you are spending time in Brainerd, check out Paul Bunyan Land, go zip-lining, or visit the Brainerd International Raceway.
Brainerd is packed with adventure. Don’t miss: 38 Fun Things to Do in Brainerd, Minnesota.
Fishing at Crow Wing State Park
You can fish the Mississippi River from shore or by boat. Minnesota residents can fish without a license in state parks only when fishing from shore or through the ice within the park; check current MN DNR rules before you go. There’s a boat launch, and you can paddle up the Crow Wing River when conditions allow.
Fish For Free in Minnesota State Parks
Did you know if you have a Minnesota driver’s license you can fish for free in Minnesota State Parks? The only expectation is if the body of water requires a trout stamp, or if you are in a Recreation Area. To fish for free you must be:
1. Fishing from shore or wading in water within the state park; or
2. Fishing through the ice, from a boat or a float on a designated lake that is completely encompassed within a Minnesota state park.
Click here for the official statue.
Ride the Paul Bunyan Trail
The Paul Bunyan State Trail is a paved multi-use trail stretching from the Brainerd Lakes area to Bemidji. It’s great for biking, running, and walking.
Expect rolling sections but nothing too tough for beginners. Trail towns offer food, coffee, and bike fixes. Start from Brainerd and go as far as you like.
Note: The trail does not pass directly through the state park; connect via local roads or trailheads in Brainerd/Nisswa.
Beaulieu House
Built in 1849 by fur trader Clement Beaulieu, this is the only remaining building from the original townsite and one of the oldest north of St. Anthony Falls.
Many other structures were dismantled or moved as the rail line shifted north of Crow Wing.
To get a closer look, follow the trail to the house. You can access it from the field as you reach the trees.
Visit a Chapel in a State Park
There are two notable religious sites in Crow Wing State Park. Father Pierz’s mission was the earliest, remembered today with interpretive markers. The Knights of Columbus later built a small chapel on or near the original mission site.
Father Francis (Franz) Pierz was an Austrian Catholic priest and missionary who served Indigenous communities and European settlers in the mid-1800s. Interpretive panels at the park share more of this history.
Today, the Knights of Columbus Chapel is privately maintained. A memorial plaque on-site honors Father Lawrence Lautishar, who assisted Fr. Pierz in 1858.
Need an offline map for Crow Wing State Park? Download it free in Avenza Maps. It uses GPS, so you can navigate without cell service.
Battle of 1768
According to 19th-century historian William Warren, a major battle between the Dakota and Ojibwe took place here in 1768. The Ojibwe victory helped solidify control of the area. Interpretive signs in the park share the story and context.
Chippewa Lookout
From this vantage point, you can see more than a mile upriver. Local stories say Ojibwe scouts watched here for Dakota war parties moving along the river. It’s one of the best river views in the park.
Paddling the Mississippi and Crow Wing Rivers
The park sits at the confluence of the Crow Wing and Mississippi Rivers. Bring your canoe or kayak and explore calm stretches when water levels allow. Check flows and wind before you go, and ask the park office about current conditions and local shuttle options.
Some outfitters in the Brainerd Lakes area offer canoe, kayak, and tube rentals with shuttle service in season.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are there bears at Crow Wing State Park?
Black bears are uncommon here but not impossible in central Minnesota. You’re more likely to see deer, foxes, beavers, eagles, and hawks. Store food properly and follow park wildlife guidance.
Can you hunt in Crow Wing State Park?
Many Minnesota state parks have limited, managed hunts. Dates and areas change each year. Check the MN DNR hunting page for current closures and safety info.
During hunt days, portions of the park may be closed to hikers. If you hike in November, wear bright or blaze-colored clothing.
How much does it cost to visit Crow Wing State Park?
All Minnesota State Parks are free with an annual permit. You can buy them in person or online for $35. If you are planning to visit for the day, expect to pay around $7.
Throughout the year, there are a few free days and other discounts you can check out too.
Camping costs anywhere from $25-35 a night.
Pro Tip: Visit any State Park during one of their free days. Check out Minnesota State Park Pass Hacks, Tips, and Free Days to find all the days
Would I go back to Crow Wing State Park?
Yes. This park is a gem. We went back to camp overnight, visit the Brainerd International Raceway, and enjoy more of the Brainerd area.
Next time, I’m paddling. The Mississippi here is wide and scenic, but still friendly for a calm day paddle.
