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Mississippi National River and Recreation AreaA bald eagle flying through a winter forest.
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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, Minnesota. [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

 
A view of Camp Coldwater Springs and Spring House.

Bureau of Mines (Coldwater) Site Update

A public informational open house will be held Monday, February 23, 2009 to provide comment on planning for the reuse and restoration of federal property formally occupied by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines.
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Mississippi River Trail Grand Opening

Mississippi River Trail Grand Opening

The grand opening of the Minnesota section of the Mississippi River Trail and the newly remodeled City House will take place on June 6, 2009. After the celebration the National Park Service will host a 9-mile Bike to a Ranger ride along the Mississippi River.
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Mississippi River Forum: May 15, 2009 from 7:30a.m. to 9:00a.m.

Mississippi River Forum

Join others whose work influences the Mississippi River in Minnesota on Friday, May 15, 2009. Learn about issues impacting the Mississippi, and make sure other decision makers understand your perspective. The event is free and a light breakfast will be provided.
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Attractions near the Mississippi River

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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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.
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The wide Mississippi River  

Did You Know?
At Lake Onalaska, near LaCrosse Wisconsin, the Mississippi River is about 4 miles wide. Mississippi River water held behind Lock and Dam #7 and water held by damming the Black River form this broad reach of the Mississippi River.

Last Updated: May 06, 2009 at 11:49 EST