Red River State Recreation Area

The Greenway Trail

The Greenway Trail is approximately 20 miles of multi-purpose trail that encompasses both the Minnesota and North Dakota side of the Red River. This trail is also linked to the metro bike path system. You can find picnic areas, boat ramps, interpretive plaques, and more along the length of the Greenway Trail. Paved trail runs along the edge of the campground at Red River State Recreation Area.

Campground – Scene 1

The Red River State Recreation Area was established after the flood of 1997 that devastated the communities of East Grand Forks, MN and Grand Forks, ND. After the flood, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers redrew the floodplain boundaries and the Federal Emergency Management Agency bought 500 homes and other buildings in East Grand Forks along the Red and Red Lake Rivers. Various structures and homes were removed and the land became a state recreation area. Sherlock Park Campground is located within the Red River State Recreation Area.

Campground – Scene 2

Sherlock Park Campground contains 113 sites that are a combination of full-service, rustic, and walk-in sites. This scenic campground is located in the heart of East Grand Forks, giving it a unique urban setting.

Group Camp

The group camp site at Sherlock Park Campground is designed to host special events or large groups who wish to camp together. Enjoy enough space to accommodate many tents, several picnic tables, fire rings, and the dappled shade from nearby trees.

Playground

This playground was built as a memorial to a member of the city council who was helpful in establishing Sherlock Park Campground. Children can enjoy slides, swings, and other play equipment at this location.

Walk-in Campsite

This secluded campsite borders the Red River and can be accessed by a mowed path. Campers can enjoy a more private camping experience at one of four walk-in sites, each complete with a picnic table and fire ring. Bring your fishing pole and take advantage of great fishing just steps away from your tent. Camping gear can be carted into these sites.

View from Walk-in Campsite

Walk-in sites within the campground offer beautiful views of the Red River. An observant eye may also spot several of the wildlife species that call this river home. Watch for migrating songbirds, great blue herons, and bald eagles.

River Heights Trail Head

Located near the Red River, the River Heights Trail Head is an excellent spot for a peaceful picnic. It also offers paved trails, birdwatching opportunities, and beautiful spaces for relaxing. The green expanse of the trail head is close to both a parking area and restrooms.

River Heights Picnic Shelters

Enjoy an afternoon with family and friends at one of several picnic shelters at the River Heights Trail Head. Shelters can be reserved by contacting the Red River State Recreation Area.

Shoreline Fishing Area

Sit at a bench along the Red River, relax, and cast a line. This fishing area can be accessed by a paved path, and is conveniently located across from parking and restrooms at the River Heights Trail Head.

North End Wall

In this area, visitors can view part of the flood wall built after the flood of 1997. East Grand Forks is the first city in the United States to install this “Invisible Flood Wall”.

River View

The Red River contains a rich diversity of plant life and habitat which is utilized by many animals year-round. The river is also an important migratory route for numerous species of birds.

Boat Ramp

A short drive from the campground (see map), a ramp provides boat access to the Red Lake River. A Minnesota State Park Permit is not required to use this boat launch. Nearby benches provide great spots for shore fishing or just taking in the view.