Banning State Park

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Banning State Park

Banning State Park is located aongside the Kettle River. This Minnesota state parks. This Minnesota state park is near the tiny village of Askov and the larger town of Hinkley Minnesota.

The Kettle River can best be described as both "wild" and "scenic." Five landmarks along the Kettle River are named:

Blueberry Slide
Mother's Delight
Dragon's Tooth
Little Banning
Hell's Gate

The (now extinct) village of Banning was established in the early 1890's when a sandstone quarry was opened at Hell's Gate. A rock quarry operated near the river in the early 20th century. When you visit, you can see the remains of the stone buildings.

Banning State Park is a great place for a day hike. You can hike the trails to all of the landmark locations and to Wolf Creek Falls. Hike along both sides of the river and get spectacular views of the river.

The Kettle River is full of rapids and enjoyed by kayakers and canoers who love its challenge.

The Banning Campground is at the crest of a pine forested hill. There are 33 campsites available for tents and RVs, 11 of these have electrical hookup. There are 4 canoe-in campsites and 1 backpacking campsite.

Some of Banning State Park's attractions include:

Located about an hour and a half northeast of the Twin Cities.
Canoeing and kayaking paradise
Great place to study natural history
Hike along the Kettle River
Impressive sandstone rock formations
Historic ruins of the Sandstone Quarry
Wolf Creek Falls, Log Creek Arches, Robinson's Ice Cave
Other area attractions can be found in and near the towns of Sandstone, Askov and Hinckley, Minnesota

Detailed information about this, and other, Minnesota state park campgrounds can be found in Minnesota State Parks: A Camper's Guide.

Online information about Minnesota state park activities, educational programs, reservations and maps can be found at the Minnesota State Parks DNR Website

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