Rarely does prime real estate along the St. Croix River become available. So when 5.4 acres of undeveloped bluffland overlooking this wild and scenic river—directly adjacent to William O’Brien State Park—came on the market, we knew we couldn’t let the opportunity pass.
On Nov. 19, Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota officially purchased the property, marking our ninth land acquisition in support of this beloved state park.
Bringing this project to fruition was no small feat. The acquisition required more than two years of careful due diligence, including resolving a historic survey discrepancy and formalizing a long-used but unrecorded road easement. The land had been held by the previous owner for decades and was passed to his family following his death, adding additional layers of complexity to the process.
The property itself is quietly tucked away from the road, shielded by dense trees and shrubs that open into a gently sloping grassland before descending down the bluff toward the river. In the lower portion of the property, a dirt road crosses the land, providing access to four privately owned historic cabins along the St. Croix—one of which remains with the previous owner’s family. Although this road had been used for generations, it had never been officially recorded. Parks & Trails Council worked to formally establish the easement, ensuring continued access for cabin owners while enabling the land’s permanent protection.
For now, Parks & Trails Council will hold the property in trust as we partner with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to expand William O’Brien State Park’s statutory boundary to include this land. While the parcel already borders the park, this step will ensure it is fully integrated and protected for generations to come.