William O'Brien State Park

Minnesota State Park

⚠️ 2026 Season updates

Water is on for the season and available in the campgrounds and day use area. The dump station is open for the season and canoes and kayaks are available to rent at the ranger station during office hours.

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The public water access on the St. Croix is currently closed due to low water levels and high sediment. Small, non-motorized watercraft are still able to launch in the current conditions. Motorized watercraft should use alternate launches, such as Osceola or Somerset landing.

Lake Alice reconstruction project
In early August 2025, a mechanical failure of Lake Alice's water control structure resulted in a drawdown of the lake. After evaluating options for the site, DNR staff has a plan to replace the lake's water control structure and dredge the park's public water access.
The following areas are closed to the public through construction completion (estimated fall 2027): Lake Alice beach, Lake Alice fishing pier and accessible canoe/kayak launch on Lake Alice.
For construction updates, visit the Lake Alice construction page.
Updated July 2nd, 2026

Entrance fee$7 / vehicle

CampingYes

RV hookupsPrimitive only

Cabins / lodgeYes

Book a campsite Directions Official Minnesota DNR page Park map Campground map Winter map

About William O'Brien State Park

Rolling wooded hills over the St. Croix, an hour out of the Twin Cities, with northern, walleye, bass and trout in the channels. Paddle one of the finest canoeing rivers anywhere, ski it in winter, and catch a naturalist program most of the year.

Things to do

🥾 Hiking
🚲 Biking
🛶 Paddling
🏊 Swimming
🎣 Fishing
⛵ Boating
🐦 Birding

Amenities & facilities

🏕️ Campsites
🚿 Showers
🚻 Restrooms
🛖 Cabins
👥 Group Sites
🚤 Boat Ramp
🚐 RV Dump Station
🌿 Nature Center
♿ Accessible Facilities

RV / campsite hookups

⛺ Primitive / No Hookups

Camping options

Drive-in Sites
Electric Sites
Accessible Sites (Three acessible campsites)
Group Camp

Lodging options

Camper Cabins · Reserve

Entrance fee

$7 per vehicle — One-day vehicle permit $7; year-round permit $35 ($26 for an additional vehicle, $30 motorcycle, $12 with a disability permit). Free year-round permits for disabled veterans, active-duty military and members of Minnesota’s 11 federally recognized tribes.