Twin Valley MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Twin Valley, Minnesota.
1. Heiberg Park
SCENIC RIVER CAMPGROUND
Heiberg Park, nestled by the Wild Rice River, offers visitors a peaceful retreat with camping facilities and river access. Guests can fish from the shores, launch a boat into the water, or enjoy a refreshing swim during warmer months. The park provides a classic northern Minnesota outdoor experience amid picturesque natural surroundings.
2. Wild Rice River
RECREATIONAL WATERWAY
The Wild Rice River is a central feature of Twin Valley, drawing anglers, kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts throughout the seasons. Its winding course through the rolling countryside creates ideal habitats for abundant birds and fish. Paddlers and casual visitors alike appreciate the tranquil setting and opportunities for outdoor recreation along its banks.
3. Twin Valley Heritage Center & Art Gallery
LOCAL HISTORY AND ART
The Twin Valley Heritage Center & Art Gallery, located under the city water tower, showcases the town's unique agricultural and Scandinavian history. Visitors can browse historical artifacts, regional memorabilia, and view local artist Gene Lysaker's work on display. The gallery offers insights into the community's past while supporting contemporary rural artistry.
4. Agassiz Recreational Trail
MULTI-USE OUTDOOR TRAIL
The Agassiz Recreational Trail stretches for 32 miles, inviting hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and snowmobilers year-round. Running through Twin Valley and the surrounding region, the trail traverses prairies, wetlands, and farmland, offering varied scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a favorite for birdwatching and exploring rural Minnesota's diverse landscapes.
5. Prairie Passage Trail
NATIVE PRAIRIE CORRIDOR
The Prairie Passage Trail is part of a multi-state corridor highlighting native grasses and wildflowers from the Canadian border southward. In the Twin Valley area, visitors can follow marked signs featuring the Yellow Coneflower to experience seasonal blooms and local prairie ecosystems. The trail is especially noted for its spring and summer displays of color and wildlife activity.
6. Prairie Chicken Blinds
WILDLIFE VIEWING EXPERIENCE
South of Twin Valley, the Prairie Chicken Blinds offer a rare opportunity to observe greater prairie chickens during their spring mating rituals. Reserved blinds allow visitors to quietly witness the elaborate displays in native grasslands. This seasonal attraction is popular among birders and wildlife photographers seeking a unique Minnesota experience.
7. Annie Oakley's Adventures
GUIDED OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Annie Oakley's Adventures in Twin Valley provides guided experiences on the Wild Rice River and surrounding nature areas. From canoe trips to birdwatching tours, the group caters to visitors looking for hands-on exploration. Knowledgeable guides share local lore and offer outdoor skill instruction for all ages.
8. Heiberg Dam
RIVER ENGINEERING LANDMARK
The Heiberg Dam, located north of town, marks an important historical and environmental site along the Wild Rice River. Popular for fishing and picnicking, the dam area also provides opportunities for wildlife observation. Its peaceful setting attracts outdoor lovers seeking a quiet place to relax and enjoy the natural landscape.
9. Buffalo River State Park
PRAIRIE AND WOODLAND PARK
Buffalo River State Park, located in Glyndon, features expansive native prairies, wooded trails, and the scenic Buffalo River. Visitors enjoy hiking, swimming in a large outdoor pool, and observing rare prairie plants and wildlife. It is a major nearby destination for nature exploration and family outings.
10. Rydell National Wildlife Refuge
PROTECTED WETLAND HABITAT
Rydell National Wildlife Refuge, near Erskine, preserves over 2,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and grasslands for migratory birds and native wildlife. Well-maintained trails and observation areas welcome hikers, cyclists, and photographers throughout the year. The refuge is renowned for its tranquil setting and diverse bird populations.
11. Shooting Star Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT
Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen draws visitors with its wide array of gaming options, live entertainment, and multiple on-site dining venues. The casino hosts concerts, comedy shows, and special events in addition to slot machines and table games. It remains a popular regional destination for nightlife and relaxation.
12. Ulen Museum
SMALL-TOWN HISTORICAL DISPLAYS
Ulen Museum in the nearby city of Ulen showcases artifacts and memorabilia chronicling the area's agricultural and social history. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into rural Minnesota life through well-preserved exhibits and local stories. It's a favored stop for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Red River Valley region.
13. Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area
NATIVE GRASSLANDS PRESERVE
Bluestem Prairie SNA protects one of the largest remaining remnants of northern tallgrass prairie in Minnesota near Glyndon. The preserve attracts naturalists, birdwatchers, and photographers seeking native flora and rare species such as the prairie chicken. Self-guided walks and interpretive signs help visitors appreciate the ecological importance of this habitat.
14. Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
NATURE EDUCATION HUB
The Prairie Wetlands Learning Center in Fergus Falls offers immersive environmental education in a landscape of wetlands, tallgrass prairie, and native wildlife. Guided programs, nature trails, and interactive exhibits serve school groups and the general public alike. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the region's fragile ecosystems.
15. Maple Lake
RECREATIONAL LAKE DESTINATION
Maple Lake, located near Mentor, is known for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics in a classic northern Minnesota setting. Public access and nearby parks make it a family-friendly choice for summer recreation or peaceful relaxation. The lake is especially lively during fishing season and holiday weekends.
16. Nature Conservancy's Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie
GLACIAL RIDGE PRESERVE
Hole-in-the-Mountain Prairie, managed by The Nature Conservancy near Lake Benton, protects a stunning expanse of rolling prairie and glacial ridges. Visitors enjoy hiking through wildflower meadows and spotting native birds across the sweeping landscape. The preserve demonstrates ongoing efforts to conserve Minnesota's iconic prairie ecosystems.