Camden State Park is home to quite a few trails – whether you choose to navigate by horse, bike or foot. If you’re wanting a breathtaking view, be sure to check out the hike through the Dakota Valley Trail. You will want to park down by the Swimming Beach. Then head up the steep terrain and through an unpaved grass and dirt trail will bring you to the overlook of the Redwood River Valley, from above the tops of the trees. Soak in the views of the prairie at the end of the 2 ½ mile long trail. Find the perfect Instagram moment at the overlook and show your friends the beauty of Southwest Minnesota.
Our Director Cassi's favorite hike starts from the South Picnic Area. Taking the River Trail that follows the Redwood River, follow the beautiful River, and large hills that surround you, you can even see some natural springs that have emerged from the hills into the river. Then cut across and you can follow the railroad tracks and go under the railroad bridge and loop back around to the River trail where you can then either get onto the prairie land part of the trail (1-mile loop) or head back where you came from and take the river trail back and back (.7 mile loop)
You can end your adventure cooling off in the swimming pond, discover the historical Camden Village area, or find a boulder with a panoramic view of a large restored wetland complex.