Nestled in the blufflands of southeastern Minnesota, Beaver Creek Valley State Park is known for its clear streams fed by the “Big Spring.” Its streams are home to brown and native brook trout. In spring, wildflowers that blanket the woodlands hills and valleys attract migratory songbirds like the rare Acadian and Louisiana waterthrush. A hiking trail meanders along the stream and up into a maple-basswood and oak forest. Campers are lulled to sleep by the murmuring stream.
Wildlife
The great diversity of plant species contributes to a great diversity of wildlife. Deer, raccoon, muskrat, mink, badger, red and gray fox, an occasional beaver, and wild turkey may be spotted in the park. If you encounter one, please leave it alone: they present little threat to the visitor. Birdwatchers flock to the park to see the treasured Acadian flycatcher and the Louisiana waterthrush.
History
Historically, the area attracted European settlers because of rich agricultural soils, hardwoods, and the many streams that made milling possible. Archaeological surveys indicate that the valley was once an Indian village site.
Geology
The park is situated in one of the most interesting geological areas in Minnesota, the “driftless area.” The area covers 10,000 square miles in adjoining parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, which were untouched by the most recent glacial advances. However, as the glaciers receded ,torrents of meltwater poured into streams and rivers, carving deep rugged valleys.
Landscape
It is a nature lover’s paradise because of the diversity of natural communities. Bottomland hardwoods such as black ash, willow, box elder, cottonwood, and elm grow in the valley while a mix of maple, walnut, basswood and oak thrive above the valley. Small patches of native prairie and oak savanna occupy some of the south and west-facing slopes in the park.
Getting There
From I-90, take State Highway 76 south for 24 miles, then take Houston County 1 west for 4 miles. For more information please visit the MN DNR website and www.visitbluffcountry.com.
