Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service)

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The Mississippi River

Established in 1988, the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area includes 72 miles of the Mississippi River stretching from the cities of Dayton and Ramsey to just south of Hastings. [map]

The segment of the river flowing through the park has always been of major significance as a spiritual site, a place for recreation, and a tourist attraction.

Park Video (wmv)

Hydrokinetic Energy Experiment at Hastings

In the first of its kind installation in the U.S., the City of Hastings, working with Hydro Green Energy, has been licensed to place two hydroturbines in the Mississippi River. The turbines are to be installed downstream from the existing hydropower plant at Lock and Dam #2. The National Park Service is concerned about the potential environmental effects of this new technology.
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Job Opening

Experience your America and build a fulfilling career by joining the National Park Service. Become a part of our mission to unite our past, our cultures and our special places, to establish important connections to the present and build a rich and lasting legacy for future generations.
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Attractions Near the Mississippi River

Within the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area corridor there are many parks, visitor centers, and interesting places to visit intimately tied to the Mississippi River. Browse our listing of sites and find out all you need to know to plan your visit.
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		Press Relations The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area provides the press with valuable resources, such as contact information, story ideas, and photographic resources. Background information about the park is available. more...

Write to

111 East Kellogg Blvd.
Suite 105
Saint Paul, MN 55101

E-mail Us

Phone

Headquarters
(651) 290-4160

Visitor Center
(651) 293-0200

Fax

(651) 290-3214

Climate

Minnesota is known for its extremes in temperature. Winter days can sometimes get no warmer that -10 degrees F. Summer days can reach 100 degrees F. But it is a rare day that people are kept indoors because of the weather. A wide variety of recreational opportunities can be found throughout the park in any season. Plan to dress in layers, and be prepared for mosquitoes during the warm seasons.