DLM Distribution

John A. Latsch State Park is a small 450-acre park located along Highway 61, about 12 miles north of Winona, Minnesota. While it carries the title of a state park, its feel is more like a rustic rest stop with a big reward: a memorable view of the Mississippi River valley. It’s not the most developed or maintained park in the Minnesota system, but it still holds its place as a stop worth making—especially if you’re working your way through the Minnesota State Parks Passport program.

History and Namesake
The park was established in 1925 after local businessman and conservationist John A. Latsch donated the land. Latsch had a passion for preserving natural areas and was instrumental in creating several state parks in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The bluffs in the park—Mount Faith, Mount Hope, and Mount Charity—were once used by steamboat captains as landmarks for navigating the Mississippi River.

The Bluff and Riverview Trail
The highlight of the park is the Riverview Trail, a steep half-mile climb that gains nearly 500 feet in elevation. The trail, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, takes you up Mount Charity. It’s a short but strenuous workout with stair sections and rugged footing. Once at the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley, including Lock and Dam No. 5 and the surrounding bluffs. While the trail does not always see the best upkeep, the rustic character has its charm, and the view makes the effort worthwhile.

Facilities and Maintenance
John A. Latsch State Park provides only the most basic amenities. A small picnic area with tables and grills, a vault toilet, and a seasonal hand pump for water are available. There is no campground, no visitor center, and no space for maneuvering larger RVs or big rigs—making it best suited for car travelers or those in smaller vans. Compared to Minnesota’s larger state parks, facilities are minimal, and upkeep is modest. Still, the park’s simplicity carries a rustic charm, offering a quiet rest stop where the focus is on the natural setting rather than services.

Scenery and Wildlife
The park lies in the Driftless Region, an area untouched by glaciers, resulting in steep bluffs and unique landscapes. Forests of oak, maple, and cedar cover the slopes, while the Mississippi Flyway makes this a good spot for birdwatching during migrations. White-tailed deer and small mammals are common, and with luck, you may catch sight of an eagle soaring overhead.

Worth a Stop
John A. Latsch State Park may not be a destination park for a weekend of camping, but it’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re traveling Highway 61 or collecting stamps for your State Parks Passport. Think of it as a roadside rest area with a spectacular view, a tough uphill hike, and a piece of Minnesota history. Rustic, simple, and memorable in its own way, it’s a good reminder that even small parks can leave an impression.

Discover Other Minnesota State Parks - Some are close by to John A. Latsch State Park where camping is available!
Learn more and explore additional park highlights here.