Hi friends, Mia Erickson here — if you’re looking for things to do outdoors in Stillwater this weekend, here are some of my favorite picks for parks, river views, walking trails, and places to get outside and unwind.
Parks & Picnic Spots by the River
Lowell Park is right on the St. Croix River in downtown. Perfect for a riverside walk, watching the Lift Bridge, and setting up a picnic with that iconic water view. It’s one of those spots that never feels crowded at the edges.
Pioneer Park sits on a bluff north of downtown—great for watching the sunset and stretching your legs. There’s a playground, shelters, open lawns, and restrooms, so it works well for families or meeting friends outdoors. Free and beautiful.
Trails & Nature Reserves
Pine Point Regional Park has around five miles of multiuse trails through forests, marshes, and lake edges. Hiking, biking, horse trails, and in winter you’ll find cross-country skiing. If you want peace and a little wilderness close to town, this is it.
Brown’s Creek State Trail is a favorite for level, scenic walking or biking — easy to connect with other trails and beautiful neat the river.
Family Friendly & Free
Teddy Bear Park is small but cheerful: includes a playground and restrooms, easy to reach and great for letting youngest ones run around.
Washington Square Park offers picnic shelter, a little ball field, playground, kids will like it. It’s right within town so you don’t need to drive far.
State Parks & River Escapes Near Stillwater
If you’ve got half a day, Afton State Park is just a short drive away — bluff-top views, forests, river access, especially nice for birding or a calm hike.
For camping, paddle-boarding, wildlife, or just slowing down with river scenery, William O’Brien State Park is another nearby gem. Trails, river frontage, and a quieter feel than the river-town buzz.
Tips for Planning Your Weekend Outdoors
- Check the weather and bring layers—Minnesota loves surprising us.
- If heading to a regional or state park, some require entrance or permit fees; local City parks are generally free.
- Start earlier in the day for trails or river-views to beat crowds and get softer light.
- Pack water, snacks, and maybe something for shade—it turns sunny spots into gold.
Whether you’re up for a long walk along a river trail, a shaded picnic, or exploring wooded hills, Stillwater and its surroundings have plenty of natural places to refresh—and the best part is, there’s always something nearby.