A Park Shaped by History
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park sits along the Mississippi River on the south edge of Little Falls, Minnesota, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and deep historic roots. The land that is now the state park was once the Lindbergh family farm, where young Charles Lindbergh—future aviation icon—spent much of his childhood exploring the riverbanks, tending to chores, and developing the curiosity that later shaped his life. The Lindbergh home still stands on park grounds, restored to appear as it did in the early 1900s. Nearby, the visitor center (operated by the Minnesota Historical Society) provides a detailed look into the Lindbergh family’s life, their political involvement, and Charles’s early fascination with mechanics and flight.
The Landscape Along the Mississippi
The park preserves a stretch of Mississippi River shoreline lined with old-growth pine, mixed hardwoods, floodplain forest, and open fields once used by the Lindbergh family. Seasonal changes transform the scenery dramatically. Spring and early summer bring wildflowers along the river terraces, while fall turns the wooded hillsides brilliant orange and gold. In winter, the river flats become quiet and peaceful, occasionally visited by deer, fox, and wintering birds.
Trails to Explore
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park features a charming trail system that’s easy to explore in an afternoon yet rich with natural and historical interest.
The Lindbergh Trail leads visitors through forested areas, past the restored Lindbergh home, and toward peaceful views of the Mississippi River. The hiking is gentle, making it inviting for families or anyone looking for a relaxing walk through nature. Much of the trail system winds near the original farm fields and along lowland marsh areas where you can spot wildlife, particularly in early morning or before dusk.
Another section of trail follows the river’s edge, offering scenic overlooks and access points ideal for photography, quiet reflection, or simply watching the water flow past. Bridges and boardwalks appear throughout the system, adding character and making wetland areas easily accessible.
Camping at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
Camping at this park feels like stepping back in time. The campground sits in a wooded area near the river, offering a peaceful atmosphere with a strong connection to the park’s historic landscape. Sites are shaded, with plenty of tree cover and a rustic feel that suits the park’s natural setting.
The campground includes drive-in sites, walk-in tent sites, and facilities with bathrooms and showers during the typical camping season. The wooded layout provides privacy without feeling isolated, and the trails connect naturally to the camping loops. While it’s not one of Minnesota’s largest campgrounds, its intimate scale and quiet setting make it ideal for travelers who prefer a slower pace.
The Charles A. Lindbergh House and Museum
A standout experience at the park is touring the Lindbergh home and the Minnesota Historical Society’s exhibit center. The home is one of the best-preserved examples of early 1900s farm life in the region. Visitors can see Charles Lindbergh’s childhood bedroom, the family living spaces, farm buildings, and displays detailing his upbringing. The museum expands on his life story, covering both his celebrated 1927 transatlantic flight and the more complex chapters of his political involvement later in life.
Exploring Little Falls and the Surrounding Area
Little Falls itself is one of Minnesota’s oldest river towns, offering plenty to do before or after a visit to the park. The historic downtown area includes shops, cafés, and eateries that retain the character of a classic Mississippi River community. Just across the river from the park is Lindbergh’s childhood airstrip site and additional historical markers tied to the family.
Nearby attractions add depth to your visit. Linden Hill Historic Estate offers tours of two grand homes overlooking the river. The Pine Grove Zoo provides a family-friendly outing just minutes away. Minnesota Fishing Museum & Hall of Fame celebrates the region’s angling heritage. The Little Falls Dam and Maple Island Park make for scenic walks and river viewing.
For travelers heading farther north, the park is conveniently located along Highway 10, making it a natural stop on the way to parks like Mille Lacs Kathio, Father Hennepin, or Cuyuna Country.
A Park That Combines Story and Scenery
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park isn’t a large, rugged wilderness park—it’s something different, something more personal. It offers an intimate look at the early life of one of America’s most famous aviators, wrapped within a peaceful natural setting along the Mississippi. Whether you’re walking the forested trails, camping under the tall pines, or stepping inside the historic Lindbergh home, the park brings together history, nature, and quiet beauty in a memorable way.
For those traveling through central Minnesota—especially in a Mini-T Campervan—this park makes a meaningful and relaxing stop, perfect for hiking, exploring, and connecting with a fascinating piece of Minnesota’s past.
Happy Camping!
