Maplewood State Park wilderness guide
State Park · MN

Maplewood State Park

Maplewood State Park in Minnesota offers a diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and wetlands, making it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

State Park1,1684+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,168

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Maplewood State Park

Maplewood State Park in Minnesota offers a diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and wetlands, making it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Maplewood State Park is located in Todd County, Minnesota, and encompasses a landscape shaped by glacial activity, featuring rolling hills, numerous lakes, wetlands, and mixed hardwood forests. Established in 1965, the park spans over a thousand acres, providing habitat for a wide variety of wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bear, bald eagles, and diverse waterfowl. Visitors are drawn to the park for its extensive trail system that traverses scenic hardwoods and offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and nature photography. The park’s 6 lakes provide options for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, with public access points maintained for easy water entry. Maplewood State Park’s camping facilities include both modern campgrounds and more rustic options, accommodating tent campers and RVs. During winter, the park opens its trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Historic features include remnants of early settlement and logging activities, which are interpreted through signage and programs. The park’s quiet lakes and elevated views from the hardwood ridges inspire visitors to experience Minnesota’s natural beauty year-round. Educational programs and seasonal events enhance the park’s appeal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to small towns makes it accessible for day trips or longer stays, allowing visitors to explore the region’s landscapes and wildlife with ease.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Maplewood State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Maplewood Lake Overlook – Elevated views of surrounding hardwood forests and water✦ Diverse hardwood forest ecosystem containing oak, maple, and basswood species✦ Quiet fishing spots across six clear lakes with abundant panfish and walleye✦ Remote hiking trails leading through wetlands and native prairie restorations
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Maplewood State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Cross-Country Skiing

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Snowshoeing

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Maplewood State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Maplewood State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Maplewood State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee required; day passes and annual park vehicle permits accepted

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 Maplewood State Park

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

Maplewood Campground

Modern campground with electric hookups, shower facilities, and easy access to hiking trails and lakefront.

Group Campground

A designated area for larger groups preferring a more rustic camping experience removed from the main campground.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Maplewood State Park

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

Browerville, Minnesota
⌖ 4.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Browerville, Minnesota

Browerville offers a quiet outdoor setting with hiking, paddling, and winter sports. Surrounded by state forests and lakes, it’s a great spot for peaceful adventures year-round away from crowds.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling and skiing
Explore Town
Clarissa, Minnesota
⌖ 6.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clarissa, Minnesota

Clarissa, Minnesota offers a laid-back rural retreat perfect for paddling on quiet rivers, fishing lakes, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails. Enjoy nature’s calm away from busy tourist spots.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water activities; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Long Prairie, Minnesota
⌖ 12.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Long Prairie, Minnesota

Long Prairie, Minnesota offers quiet outdoor adventures along the scenic Long Prairie River. Paddle tranquil waters, hike easy trails, and enjoy bird watching or snowshoeing in a peaceful rural setting.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Staples, Minnesota
⌖ 14.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Staples, Minnesota

Staples offers easy access to peaceful hiking, paddling, and biking along the Crow Wing River and state park trails. This small town in Minnesota is a great base for outdoor fun across all seasons, including snowmobiling in winter.

Late Spring through Fall for water and land activities; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Motley, Minnesota
⌖ 15.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Motley, Minnesota

Motley is a small Minnesota town surrounded by forests and lakes, offering hiking, paddling, biking, and winter snowmobiling for outdoor lovers. Its quiet charm makes it a great basecamp for all-season adventures.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Swanville, Minnesota
⌖ 17.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Swanville, Minnesota

Swanville, Minnesota, is a quiet town surrounded by lakes and forested areas offering easy access to hiking, paddling, fishing, and winter snow sports. It’s ideal for travelers seeking peaceful outdoor experiences away from crowded tourist spots.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Maplewood State Park

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

An Evening of Wine, Music, and Purpose at Two Silo Winery
ADVEXPEDITION
Grant, Minnesota
WineryADV Bookable

An Evening of Wine, Music, and Purpose at Two Silo Winery

A concise guide to the 2nd annual Multiple Sclerosis Fundraiser at Two Silo Winery — a nine-hour fundraiser (12–9 PM) featuring complimentary tastings, food, and live music by Prairie Beats.

WineryPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip