Fort Ridgely State Park
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Tour Historic Fort Ridgely and wander through the ruins of this once thriving outpost. Learn about the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862, a major event in Minnesota's early history. Visit the museum and the cemetery to learn more. For recreation, this park offers plenty. In the summer, play a nine hole golf course, hike or ride the trails on horseback, fish the stocked pond or trout stream, camp (drive-in and walk-in sites are available), or stay overnight in the renovated farmhouse. In the winter, ski, snowmobile, or stay overnight at the chalet.
Tell me more about this park's wildlife, history, geology and landscape.
Visitor Alert!Camping and Lodging UpdateAll camping and lodging facilities are open and available at Fort Ridgely State Park. Roads within the campgrounds are plowed, although individual campsites may still have patches of snow. Water and shower facilities will be available on May 2. Office HoursIn April and early May the park will not have regular office hours – please use the self registration desk in front of the park office to purchase your permits and register for camping/lodging. Beginning Memorial Day weekend and running through Labor Day weekend, the park will have regular office hours Sunday through Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm. Trout StockingOn April 16 300 yearling rainbow trout and 300 two-year-old brown trout were stocked in Fort Ridgely Creek. Stream trout fishing season began on April 13. Fort Ridgely Historic SiteThe Fort Ridgely Historic Site grounds are open for self-guided tours each day. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required to visit the Historic Site. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. See Programs & Services for more information about the Historic Site.
Firewood Restrictions Information:Minnesota has enacted legislation that restricts firewood being brought to or used on DNR lands. Learn more and review vendor lists. Approved firewood bundles are available for purchase at the park during office hours. |
Park NotesU.S.-Dakota War of 18622012 marked 150 years since the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Fort Ridgely State Park was an important location during this time. Find out how to learn more. Stay and Play Golf PackageVisitors that stay three or more consecutive nights will recieve two all-day golf passes for their party's use during their stay. Fort Ridgely Golf Course features scenic vistas, wildlife, and wildflowers in the natural areas along the Par 35, 9-hole course. See Recreation Facilities for more Golf Course information. This package is not available on holiday weekends. FairRidge TrailA paved recreational trail connects the town of Fairfax to the park. This trail provides approximately 7.3 miles for your hiking and biking enjoyment. Help Preserve and Promote Fort Ridgely State Park and Historic Site!The Friends of Fort Ridgely was formed in 2001 by a group of citizens interested in the future of the State Park and Historic Site. Both The Friends of Fort Ridgely and the Nicollet County Historical Society sponsor many events at the park.
The Friends would like to encourage you to become a member of their group and help preserve Fort Ridgely for the generations to come. For more information, please contact: The Friends of Fort Ridgely, P O Box 292, Fairfax, MN 55332. You may also call the park for more information (507) 426-7840. Virtual Tour:Take a virtual tour. It's a great tool to help you plan your next trip to the park! Gift Cards:Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card. |
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Hours
Best time to contact the park:
Spring, Summer, Fall: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Winter: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please leave a message.
Contact
72158 County Road 30
Fairfax, MN 55332
tel: 507-426-7840
fax: 507-426-7112
email: fortridgely.statepark@state.mn.us
Getting There
Off State Highway 4, 6 miles south of Fairfax or 12 miles north of Sleepy Eye, then follow the signs to the park.