Day Trips from Grand Forks
← All Grand Forks day tripsDay Trips from Grand Forks: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Grand Forks, ND. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Grand Forks
Itasca State Park
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.9 stars by 4,095 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
MN 56569, USA
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Glendalough State Park
Battle Lake, MN 56515
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.8 stars by 636 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maplewood State Park
Pelican Rapids, MN 56572
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.8 stars by 1,051 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gunlogson State Nature Preserve
ND 58220, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pembina Gorge State Park
Walhalla, ND 58282
Just 1 hr 52 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
White Horse Hill National Game Preserve
St Michael, ND 58370
Just 1 hr 44 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars by 413 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Turtle River State Park
Arvilla, ND 58214
Just 27 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars by 787 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
MN 56601, USA
Just 1 hr 55 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars by 396 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Icelandic State Park
Cavalier, ND 58220
Just 1 hr 25 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars by 426 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fort Ransom State Park
Fort Ransom, ND 58033
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Grand Forks, rated 4.7 stars by 374 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Grand Forks
What are the best state parks near Grand Forks, ND?
The best state parks near Grand Forks offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Grand Forks?
Most state parks near Grand Forks charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Grand Forks are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Grand Forks offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Grand Forks?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Grand Forks. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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