Why the Headwaters Belong on Your Bucket List
At Itasca State Park, the continent’s greatest river begins as a knee-deep trickle just 18 feet wide. Families hop the stepping-stones, anglers spot trout in crystal water, and towering red pines frame every photo. Visiting the source is equal parts history lesson and pure north-woods magic.
Quick Directions From Grant Haven Campground
| Leg | Road | Miles | Time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Campground ➜ MN-89 S | 8 | 10 min | |
| MN-89 ➜ MN-200 W | 14 | 16 min | |
| MN-200 ➜ Park Entrance (follow brown signs) | 5 | 9 min | |
| Total | — | 27 | ≈ 35–40 min |
*Times assume normal traffic and conditions.
Parking tip: Use the North Entrance lot for the shortest walk (0.3 mi) to the Headwaters trailhead.
Must-See Stops Inside the Park
| Stop | What Makes It Special | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Headwaters Stepping-Stones | Iconic photo where the Mississippi begins. Water is shin-deep—perfect for kids in water shoes. | 30 min |
| Mary Gibbs Visitor Center | Exhibits on Ojibwe culture, CCC history, café, gift shop. | 20 min |
| Wilderness Drive Loop | 10-mile one-way road past old-growth pines, Wildlife Overlook, and Preacher’s Grove. | 45 min |
| Aiton Heights Fire Tower | 100-ft climb to 360° lake panorama—best fall-color view in northern Minnesota. | 30 min |
| Douglas Lodge | 1905 timber lodge serving walleye tacos & wild-rice soup. | Meal stop |
Insider Tips From the Grant Haven Crew
- Arrive before 10 a.m. to park close; tour buses roll in late morning.
- Pack a light towel—little campers can’t resist wading the river.
- State-park vehicle pass is $7/day; pay stations take cards.
- Cell coverage is spotty; download the PDF trail map ahead of time.
- Bring binoculars: bald eagles often hunt Lake Itasca’s north bay.
Make Grant Haven Your Home-Base, Not a Crowded Park Lot
After a full day of hiking and history, trade the busy park campground for:
- 60-ft pull-through pads + 50/30/20 AMP hookups
- Hot showers & laundry—no wait lines
- Lodge bar, arcade, and indoor golf simulator for evening fun
- Quiet pine-ringed sites just off the ATV trail network—far from bus diesel and tourist crowds
Book a sunset fire under the stars, then roll out refreshed for tomorrow’s lake fishing or trail riding.
Ready to cross “Walk the Mississippi Headwaters” off your list?
Secure your full-hookup site at Grant Haven Campground today—summer weekends fill fast.