Snapshot virtual tour
Welcome to the Great River Bluffs State Park virtual tour! In this journey you'll stroll through the goat prairie, admire the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley from several scenic overlooks, and check out a few of our favorite campsites. We hope it prompts you to visit the park in person sometime soon.
East Overlook
Welcome to the East Overlook. From this vantage point you get an excellent view of the mighty Mississippi River. On the far side of the river is Wisconsin and back waters that make up the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. A bald eagle flies gracefully above the bluffs, a common sight.
Trail to East Overlook
On the trail leading to the East Overlook you can see the beautiful Mississippi River Valley and into Wisconsin.
Orchard Overlook
The Orchard Overlook sits above Kearns Valley. Off in the distance is Interstate 90. You may notice restricted access/no trespassing signs below this overlook and in other areas of the park. These are posted to protect important plants and animal habitat.
Main Campground
This is in the park's main campground at Site 2. Each of the 31 sites has a picnic table, fire ring and an easy walk to the shower building. There are no electrical hookups in the campground. Most sites have vegetation for privacy.
Drive-by Overlook
The Drive-by Overlook is on the way to the campground. Pull the car over and sit for a bit, getting a great look at the great river.
Kearns Valley Overlook
Kearns Valley Overlook is at the end of the trail. Below this point is posted no trespassing to protect delicate goat prairie grasses and flowers.
South Overlook
From the picnic grounds parking lot, take a walk to South Overlook. Enjoy a look at the Mississippi River Valley from 500 feet above.
North Overlook Scene #1
Another overlook accessible from the picnic grounds is North Overlook, the most popular point in the park. Interpretive panels tell the story of the Mississippi River Valley and identify landmarks in the distance.
North Overlook Scene #2
North Overlook is about 200 yards from the parking lot.
Kings Bluff Trail
Kings Bluff Trail is the most used trail in the park. It is 1.25 miles of easy walking from the parking lot to the end of the trail which stops at Kings Bluffs Overlook. This is the park's Hiking Club trail.
Goat Prairies
Great River Bluffs State Park had some of the best "goat prairies" in Minnesota. Sometimes the best reward of the hike is just to relax and soak it in!