River Heights Park
Rate this placeNearby: Ernster Park Simley Island Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
River Heights Park is a picturesque park located in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota.
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Summary
The park is a popular destination for visitors who are seeking a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by nature. There are several reasons to visit River Heights Park, including its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
One of the main attractions at River Heights Park is the beautiful Trout Brook, which flows through the park and provides a habitat for trout and other aquatic life. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the brook with a valid Minnesota fishing license. The park also features a playground for children, picnic areas, and a paved trail that is perfect for hiking, biking, or running.
In addition to the recreational opportunities, the park is also home to several points of interest. The River Heights Pavilion is a popular spot for weddings, family reunions, and other events. The pavilion can accommodate up to 100 people and is available for rent through the city of Inver Grove Heights.
Another notable feature of the park is the River Heights Overlook, which offers stunning views of the Minnesota River Valley. Visitors can climb to the top of the overlook and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Interesting facts about River Heights Park include its history as a former farmland that was later donated to the city for use as a park. The park was officially dedicated in 1972 and has since become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
The best time of year to visit River Heights Park is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the park is in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy the colorful wildflowers, lush greenery, and warm sunshine.
Overall, River Heights Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities of Minnesota. With its picturesque scenery, abundant wildlife, and range of activities, it is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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