By: Kumari Mia Wijetunge

Minnesota offers all kinds of natural beauty, and many of its state parks are often very popular destinations, but there are many lesser known parks that are equally just as beautiful and an even more peaceful experience since they tend to be less populated. Here are five underrated state parks that you should visit.

Banning State Park

Located along the Kettle River, Banning offers hiking trails, scenic views, and fishing or canoeing opportunities. It’s known for its many photo-worthy rapids, and remnants of an old sandstone quarry, and it’s especially photogenic during the winter seasons.

Frontenac State Park

Situated on the Mississippi River bluffs, Frontenac offers beautiful views of the river, bird watching opportunities, and quiet hiking trails. Frontenac is a great park for people who want to explore the bluffs and frosted hills without the crowds.

Tettegouche State Park

This park is a little bit more well known but is still less crowded than some other parks nearby like Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock. It offers cliffs, waterfalls, and access to Lake Superior, along with hiking trails.

Judge C. R. Magnet State Park

This park is often overlooked because of its relatively remote location near Grand Marais. It features a waterfall known as Devil’s Kettle where water will disappear into a hole, a unique natural phenomenon that draws visitors seeking natural wonders away from the crowds.

Sibley State Park

Near central Minnesota, Sibley State Park is known for its hills, peaceful lakes, scenic views, and the highest point in the park, Mount Tom. It’s less visited than nearby parks like the Glacial Lakes and Monson Lake State Park , making it an ideal place to visit alone or with the whole family.