Carley State Park

Carley is one of the smaller Minnesota State Parks at just over 200 acres in size, but it makes up for it with a dazzling display of spring flowers, including bluebells (mertensia virginica). The north branch of the undulating Whitewater River is the main attraction in this southern Minnesota Bluffland region park. Carley State Park is located four miles south of Plainview in Minnesota’s Wabasha County.

Trails

The small park’s five-mile trail system is woodsy and quiet and crosses the river many times. You can explore the bottomlands and the steep-sloped river valley, and one trail leads through a grove of white pines, unusual this far south. The picnic area is the main family gathering spot in the park.

Landscape and wildlife

The hardwood/softwood forest at Carley State Park provides good cover for ruffed grouse and a variety of birds and wildlife. Beaver lodges can be spotted from hiking trails that follow the north branch of the Whitewater River, one of southeastern Minnesota’s famous trout streams. One unusual feature for southern Minnesota is a stand of white pines.

Camping

Carley’s 20 rustic campsites are separated by trees which add to the park’s intimate appeal. Two group camps have room for 15 and 20 sites.

Winter

Two miles of ungroomed trails are accessible to skiers and snowshoeing is allowed throughout the park.

Find southern Minnesota ski trails

Bluebell Festival

Every May, early in the month, Virginia bluebells carpet the forest floor of Carley State Park near Plainview, Minnesota and the local Lions Club and the Minnesota DNR host a party. The Bluebell Festival is certainly worthy attending. Activities include trout fishing for kids, archery for everyone, guided wildflower walks and a glimpse of Boy Scout Troop 57 from Plainview enjoying its Indian tee-pee construction and axe throwing events.