St. Croix State Park Backcountry Drive

The St. Croix State Park Backcountry Drive follows 15 miles of gravel fire roads and maintenance tracks through Minnesota’s largest state park, offering access to remote corners most visitors never see. The route winds past hidden lakes, abandoned Civilian Conservation Corps camps from the 1930s, and provides stunning overlooks of the wild and scenic St. Croix River valley. Fire Tower Road climbs to the historic Chengwatana Fire Tower, offering panoramic views across 34,000 acres of pristine hardwood forest and wetlands.

This is easy driving suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, with well-maintained gravel surfaces throughout. Spring offers the best wildflower displays while fall brings spectacular color, though the roads are passable year-round except during major snow events. The park requires a vehicle permit, and camping is restricted to designated sites. The real draw is accessing Minnesota’s wilderness heart without the crowds, with opportunities for wildlife photography and peaceful riverside camping along the St. Croix’s undeveloped banks.