Fort Ridgely State Park
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!Attention Campers:The shower stalls in the modern bathroom building in the main campground will be closed for the remainder of the fall. Flush toilets and sinks will still be available. Campers may drive to either the Chalet/Clubhouse, or to the modern bathrooms at the Horse Campground to take showers. |
Park NotesBe fascinated. Check out the naturalist programs and other activities scheduled at the park. Virtual Tour:Take a virtual tour. It's a great tool to help you plan your next trip to the park! Panoramic tour | Snapshot tour Stay and Play Golf Package:Fort Ridgely Golf Course features scenic vistas, wildlife, and wildflowers in the natural areas along the Par 35, 9-hole course. Visitors that stay three or more consecutive nights will receive two all-day golf passes for their party's use during their stay. This package is not available on holiday weekends. Get more information about the golf course. Fort Ridgely Historic Site:The historic site grounds are open for self-guided tours each day, and the museum is open Thursday through Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required. Learn more. U.S.-Dakota War of 1862:2012 marked 150 years since the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Fort Ridgely State Park was an important location during this time. Learn more. FairRidge Trail:A paved recreational trail connects the town of Fairfax to the park. This trail provides approximately 7.3 miles for your hiking and biking enjoyment. Friends of Fort Ridgely:In 2001 the Friends of Fort Ridgely was formed by a group of citizens interested in the future of the state park and historic site. The Friends of Fort Ridgely and the Nicollet County Historical Society sponsor many events at the park. If you'd like to join the Friends group, contact The Friends of Fort Ridgely, P.O. Box 292, Fairfax, MN 55332, or call the park at 507-426-7840 for more information. Gift Cards:Purchase a Minnesota state parks Gift Card. Don't move firewood!Burning non-local firewood can spread invasive species, and it's against Minnesota state law. Learn more. Always buy your firewood at the park, or from an approved local vendor. Find firewood vendors for Fort Ridgely State Park. Birders:Bird Checklist |
Park Highlights | ||||||
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CampingHours
Best time to contact the park:
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends: Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 8 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.