St. Croix National Scenic Riverway wilderness guide
National Scenic Riverway · WI, MN

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities along its expansive waterways, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and recreation enthusiasts.

National Scenic Riverway92,7384+ Trails

Designation

National Scenic Riverway

Total Wilderness Area

92,738

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities along its expansive waterways, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and recreation enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Stretching over 200 miles across Wisconsin and Minnesota, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway preserves the pristine waters of the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers. The riverway is rich in both natural beauty and cultural history, home to diverse habitats including lush forests and open valleys. The area is known for its abundant wildlife, such as bald eagles, otters, and numerous fish species. Important in the history of Native American tribes and early European explorers, the riverway today offers a multitude of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy canoeing and kayaking on tranquil waters, hiking through a series of trails offering both river and forest vistas, and camping at several designated sites along the river. Its scenic views, combined with the opportunity for solitude and peace, make it a popular place for visitors year-round.

Field Guide · National Scenic Riverway
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Wild River State Park, with stunning river views and visitor resources✦ The confluence of the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers, rich in wildlife✦ The historic Osceola Landing, providing insight into the region's history✦ Remote stretches of the Namekagon River for those seeking solitude and quiet
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required; campfire permits needed for backcountry camping.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Trego Park Campground

Located near Trego, offering easy access to the Namekagon River for paddle sports.

Sand Creek Landing

A more rustic option right on the river, perfect for seasoned campers who enjoy river access.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Amery, Wisconsin
⌖ 4.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Amery, Wisconsin

Amery offers a peaceful Northwoods escape with hiking, paddling on the Apple River, mountain biking trails, and winter snowmobiling. Its small-town charm and natural settings make it a great destination for outdoor lovers seeking quiet adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and ice fishing
Explore Town
Dresser, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dresser, Wisconsin

Dresser, Wisconsin, offers a quiet outdoor retreat with scenic hiking trails, peaceful paddling on the St. Croix River, excellent bird watching, and winter snowmobiling. This small town is a laid-back gateway to natural beauty and seasonal adventure.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Balsam Lake, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Balsam Lake, Wisconsin

Balsam Lake, Wisconsin is a vibrant getaway for boating, fishing, hiking, and snowmobiling enthusiasts. Its pristine lake and forest trails offer year-round adventure steps from charming small-town comforts.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Centuria, Wisconsin
⌖ 10.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Centuria, Wisconsin

Centuria, Wisconsin offers peaceful river paddling, rugged hiking, and winter snowmobiling in the scenic St. Croix River Valley. This hidden gem is ideal for travelers seeking quiet outdoor adventure amid Midwestern woodlands and waterways.

Spring through Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Taylor Falls, Minnesota
⌖ 11.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Taylor Falls, Minnesota

Taylor Falls offers rugged gorge hikes, stunning river paddling, and camping near the St. Croix River. Explore glacial potholes and sandstone cliffs year-round with activities from hiking to snowshoeing in a small-town setting.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin
⌖ 11.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin

St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, is an outdoor lover’s gateway to hiking, paddling, and winter sports along the scenic St. Croix River. Its parks offer trails, stunning river views, and camping options close to town.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Ten Miles Down the St. Croix: Wild River to Taylors Falls Dam
ADVEXPEDITION
Taylors Falls, Minnesota
CanoeADV Bookable

Ten Miles Down the St. Croix: Wild River to Taylors Falls Dam

A 10-mile canoe run from Wild River State Park to Eric’s Boat Landing in Taylors Falls that takes roughly 3–4 hours—this guide lays out the route, timing, and practical details for the day trip.

CanoePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Morning at the Roundhouse: Tots & Trains for Little Conductors
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Paul, Minnesota
TrainADV Bookable

Morning at the Roundhouse: Tots & Trains for Little Conductors

A twice-monthly, two-hour program at the Minnesota Transportation Museum that pairs storytime and crafts with hands‑on exploration—this guide helps parents plan the perfect morning for young train fans.

TrainPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip