Minnesota state parks and recreation areas preserve the most scenic and historic areas in the state. They offer a variety of facilities, services, and outdoor recreation opportunities. State parks are well developed with modern facilities, but the degree of accessibility varies from park to park.
- Every state park has picnic facilities and most have camping facilities and trails.
- Many state parks also offer boating and fishing opportunities, historic sites, visitor centers or interpretive programs.
- Three Minnesota state parks offer tours with accessible options.
- Over a dozen Minnesota state parks have all-terrain track chairs that can be used on designated trails.
- Many Minnesota state parks have accessible campsites, lodging and trails.
Learn more about Minnesota state parks online or pick up a copy of the Parks Guide from the DNR Information Center.
If you need specific information about accessibility at a particular state park, please call that park before visiting. In some cases special arrangements can be made. Although park staff cannot reserve specific sites, they will make every effort to assign a site with appropriate picnic tables and easy access to the restrooms and shower buildings.
Discounted state park permits
A valid Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required for all vehicles entering Minnesota state parks. All permits are valid for one year from the month of purchase.
If your vehicle has been issued Minnesota disability license plates or a rear-view mirror hang tag, or if you have a Federal Access Pass, Minnesota residents can get a reduced rate year-round vehicle permit for $12. If you own multiple vehicles you may purchase additional permits at the same rate for other vehicles in your name.
To get the discount, you will need to first show your documents to DNR staff. You can do this at the DNR license center in St. Paul (500 Lafayette Rd, St. Paul, MN, 55155), or at any staffed and open Minnesota state park ranger station - be sure to bring your paperwork with you! Keep in mind that not every park office is staffed seven days a week.
You will need the following documents to prove eligibility:
- A Minnesota-issued disability license plate OR disability hang tag OR Federal Access Pass; AND
- Proof of vehicle ownership.
If you have questions, leave a voicemail for the permit fulfillment center at 218-595-7118. Be sure to mention "disability tag" in your message.
If you qualify for the reduced rate vehicle permit but do not have a vehicle, you may purchase a "wallet card" for the same price, to be carried with you rather than affixed to a particular vehicle. Wallet cards may only be purchased at an open state park ranger station, or at the DNR license center. Upon purchase, use your receipt as a temporary permit until the wallet card is mailed to you. Place it on the passenger side dashboard. If you do not receive your wallet card within 30 days please email [email protected].
More information about DNR discounts for people with disabilities
Discounted camping rates
For Minnesota residents with physical disabilities (permit issued by the State or Federal Access Pass holders), half-priced camping is available Sunday through Thursday nights. This discounted fee applies to drive-in, backpack, walk-in, and other rustic or remote campsites. It does not apply to any lodging, group sites, or other facilities.
You will need proof of disability, and you can get the reduced camping rate whether you make your reservation online, over the phone, or in person at the park.