Wind-ravaged St. Croix Park to reopen soon

September 10, 2011 at 1:50AM
The damage from the storm that swept St. Croix State Park on July 1 was jagged and widespread.
The damage from the storm that swept St. Croix State Park on July 1 was jagged and widespread. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Minnesota's largest state park, pummeled into closure by a wind storm more than two months ago, will start reopening in stages starting next week, state conservation officials said Friday.

St. Croix State Park, one of Minnesota's most popular parks, on Monday will resume access to day-use areas, the equestrian campground and the two modern guesthouses on Norway Point, the Department of Natural Resources announced.

On Sept. 30, two additional campgrounds -- Riverview and Paint Rock Springs -- will reopen, the DNR said.

A July 1 wind storm heavily damaged 7,500 of the park's 34,000 acres and 74 of its 197 buildings. The park is about 100 miles north of the Twin Cities and along the border with Wisconsin.

"Park staff, employees from other DNR divisions and logging crews have been working hard during the past several weeks to clear fallen trees and other debris and inspect public areas of the park to make sure they are safe and ready for visitors," said Rick Dunkley, district recreation supervisor for the DNR's division of parks and trails. "We've removed approximately 3,500 tons of timber debris from 127 miles of road and trails."

For reservations, visit stayatmnparks.com or call 1-866-857-2757 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily.

PAUL WALSH

Dean Krause, heavy equipment boss and sawyer, is leading the project of clearing the mess in St. Croix State Park. Some of the salvaged wood will be sold.
Dean Krause, heavy equipment boss and sawyer, is leading the project of clearing the mess in St. Croix State Park. Some of the salvaged wood will be sold. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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about the writer

Paul Walsh

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Paul Walsh is a general assignment reporter at the Minnesota Star Tribune. He wants your news tips, especially in and near Minnesota.

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