Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

Oh, my heart. The waterfall here is just the best. And I love the community feeling— Many people can gather here and it doesn’t feel crowded, just very sweet Lots of beautiful trails, and I love meandering down the creek but for me, it all comes back to the waterfall. Have yet to go camping, but we would like to at some point, because from the looks of it, there are a lot of good campsite choices.

The Hidden Falls are a lot smaller than Minnehaha or Minneopa but still lovely. Many of the trails were closed due to excessive rain this year, but we still enjoyed hiking the trails available to us. White oak (.3 miles), Basswood (.6 miles), & Fox Trail (.5 miles) were mostly flat and shaded well by trees so beginners or families with young children could enjoy a peaceful hike. The path with the most difficulty was the Hidden Falls Trail (.5 miles in; .5 back out as the crossing was closed), only because there was a decline/incline and uneven sections. All of which are identifiable with boards, rope, and signage. Parents will just need to instruct their children accordingly.

Just went for the day but they had beautiful trails, updated facilities and a cool natural park for kids. We explored the campground for future stays and it seems fairly private per campsite. Just a little buggy, expected for the dense forest and rain we’ve had. Bring bug spray! Otherwise highly recommend.

Enjoyed a few hours of hiking on a Saturday. Plenty of parking with 2 areas both right next to the trails. The hike to the falls is not far and well worth it. Trails are well maintained but watch out for the roots. Plenty of hills for the exercise but not bad for the average hiker. Some may want to take a break but trails are wide enough that you can stop and not block others. Signs at all the trail intersections so finding your way around is simple enough. Camping area looked well maintained and is in walking distance to Ranger Station for firewood. We stayed on the Northern side trails but would definitely return to try the trails on the southern side.

I think this place is great nice trails and off trails but stay out of the prohibited areas. Primitive camping sites. "Hidden waterfall." If hiking you could hike from there down fawn trail to the scientific natural area. Big forest with a creek running though it. Watch for trees uprooted and leaning on other trees as well as widow makers.