![]() I would recommend that you take a lunch, water, camera and binoculars. The loop hike will take two – four hours depending on your pace. If you’re up for a challenge, hike a loop of trails starting at the campground to see many of the parks highlights. The northern trails also offer some of the best points of interest in the park. I did see bike tracks on these trails so be alert. The 4.18 miles of trails in the northern half of the park are designated single use hiking only. The loess soil is prone to erosion when it’s exposed so signage requests that you stay on marked trails and don’t cut switch backs to minimize damage off trails. ![]() Points of interest and trails are well marked. There are almost no rocks or boulders on the paths and where it is necessary, steps are constructed of soil and timbers. My stealthy footfalls allowed me to inadvertently sneak up on many deer and turkey. It makes for perfect trail running conditions and I saw several people doing just that. The loess soil that makes up that trail system is comfortable and quiet to walk on. All the trails in the park are in excellent condition with only minor erosion issues. In the winter, multi-use trails can be used for cross-country skiing and snowmobiles. Stone State Park has 10.44 total miles of trails that can be used for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and trail running. There is a marshy area nearby that could create issues with mosquitoes in the right conditions. This flat grassy area is shaded under a canopy of trees and features a large fire pit complete with stone benches. There are free printed guides for the trail on a kiosk where the road loops at Coon Hollow.Ī large youth group camping site can be reserved on the north side of the campground entrance. If you’re looking for a shorter trek, try hiking the Carolyn Benne self-guided nature trail just to the north of the campground. Several trailheads are accessible to start a day of hiking. A primitive restroom and two potable water spigots are also available. All campers have access to a clean modern bathroom and shower house. You’ll need to empty your waste tanks at dump stations located in the rest stops along HWY 29 on your way home. Stone State Park does not have a dump station in the park. Large trailers or motor homes may have a challenging time maneuvering into a spots. Smaller trailers will find this campground accessible and cozy. The electric sites are fairly close together and have grass pads that can get soft when wet. The campground is best suited for tent campers however, 10 of the parks 30 sites do have electrical hookups. The surrounding hills and trees keep campers out of the wind. Stone State Park’s campground is nestled in a wooded hollow. There are also 2.61 miles of family friendly trails around the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center that connect to the Stone State Park trail system up at Mount Lucia. The center is maintained by the Woodbury County conservation board and incorporates museum quality displays to help educate people about this region of the Loess Hills. Sunsets are especially dramatic since most of the overlooks face west.Īn added bonus to the area is the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center which is located next to Stone State Park. Be sure to pull over and take in the views from the scenic overlooks. Bur Oaks make up most of the lush forested valleys and a variety of prairie plants can be seen on steep and dry slopes.Ī rambling drive is another good way to experience Stone State Park. On three occasions I spotted Scarlet Tanager’s that stood out in sharp contrast against the green foliage. Birds of all types can be spotted in the park. They are accustomed to people on the trails and it’s easy to get close if you are quiet. Keep an eye out for deer and turkey while walking the trails. If you’re up for some fishing, try casting your line into Turtle Lake to catch some catfish, bass and bluegill. The flora and fauna seems especially abundant in Stone State Park. One such structure is the beautiful Stone Lodge that can be reserved for events. Many of the park’s structures were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and have stood since the 1930’s. Picnic tables, shelters, restrooms and water fountains are conveniently located throughout the park. Throughout the park you will find many areas for an intimate picnic or large group gatherings. The campground’s shower and restrooms are available while staying in the cabins. There are also three camping cabins with heat and air-conditioning but no sanitary facilities. The park’s multi-use trails draw mountain bikers, equestrian riders, cross country skiers, snowmobilers and hikers.įor overnight stays, Stone State Park offers camping for tents and trailers at a modest sized modern campground. There is an extensive trail system that is well maintained. The park is rich with features and can accommodate many popular outdoor activities.
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