Situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River in the cities of Brooklyn Center and Minneapolis, North Mississippi Regional Park offers spectacular views of the river and surrounding woods as well as an important connection to Minnesota's rich river heritage.

The park stretches for nearly three miles between the Camden Bridge and Interstate 694, and is bordered on the west by Interstate 94 and on the east by the Mississippi River. Despite its urban surroundings, the park has a refreshingly tranquil atmosphere and is home to abundant wildlife including blue herons, fox, beavers, deer, warblers and a variety of waterfowl. While visiting the park, be sure to rediscover the Twin Cities' Mississippi River heritage at the Carl W. Kroening Interpretive Center.

The Kroening Interpretive Center features impressive displays that outline humankind's relationship with the river from pre-settlement to the present. The center was named to honor Kroening, a former state legislator who cosponsored legislation to designate North Mississippi Regional Park as a regional park.

North Mississippi River Regional Park is operated by Three Rivers Park District and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB). The Park District operates the park facilities from 53rd Avenue to Interstate 694, including, the trail, picnic areas and fishing pier. MPRB operates the park facilities 53rd Avenue south to the Camden Bridge, including the trail, picnic facilities, play area, interpretive center and boat launch. The Park District provides recreation and interpretive programming and staffing at the interpretive center.

Facilities and Amenities: Interpretive Center

Fascinating displays depict the Camden area's river history from pre-settlement to modern times. Learn the importance of water quality and how the river's water is made safe for drinking. Find out about the critters that call the river their home and how their diversity has changed over the years.

< Interpretive Center Hours

Nature Education and Recreation Programs

Three Rivers Park District offers nature education and recreation programs for the public and provides special programs for youth, senior and school groups. For a public program schedule, visit the program calendar. For information about scheduling a group visit, call 763/694-7693.

Biking and Hiking Trails

Paved trails for bicyclists and pedestrians wind along the park offering spectacular views of the river and its wooded shoreline. The park trails north of 53rd Avenue connect to Bohnanan Park, Shingle Creek Parkway and Three Rivers Park District and Anoka County Trails. The trails south of 53rd Avenue connect to Webber Parkway and to the 50.1-mile Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway which includes Victory Memorial Parkway, Theodore Wirth Park, the Chain of Lakes, Minnehaha Parkway, West and East River Parkways, the downtown riverfront, and Ridgeway and Stinson Parkways.

< Learn more about the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway

Picnic Shelter - This majestic log and stone open-sided structure can accommodate up to 150 people. The shelter has a large fireplace/grill. 2008 rental fees are as follows:
Half-day (9:00am-3:00pm or 4:00pm-10:00pm) - $200;  Full day (9:00am-10:00pm) - $400
For additional information and reservations call MRPB at 612-230-6400.

Picnic Areas - Several public picnic sites overlook the river. Most sites include grills.

Fishing Pier - Enjoy the fight of the mighty carp, cagey catfish, small-mouth bass and a variety of other fish species. Accessible to persons with disabilities. Located near the Interstate 694 bridge

Boat Launch and Dock - For motorized and non-motorized boats. Accessible to persons with disabilities. Located near the Camden bridge.

Modern Restroom Facilities

Tot Lot/Playground and Wading Pool - A popular multi-level playground is open spring through fall. A wading pool with continuous water spray fountain open from Memorial Day through Sept. 2.

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