Banning State Park in Minnesota, USA - map, photos and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-10-26. Check linked official notices before travel.

Banning State Park follows the Kettle River near Sandstone, Minnesota, where sandstone quarry remains and rapids define the landscape. Construction changes the visit substantially: the campground is closed, and most of the park closes on November 9, 2026. Use the DNR’s announced construction plan to identify possible visits rather than relying on the park’s usual hiking and camping facilities.

River scenery, quarry history and bouldering

• Sandstone history: quarry remains explain how this river landscape once supplied building stone.
• Kettle River rapids: moving water and rock formations are defining features, with whitewater intended for experienced paddlers.
• Eldon climbing area: the DNR identifies this as an exception in its announced construction plan.

Construction comes first in your plan

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

Strong currents and restricted work areas

The Kettle River's powerful currents make it unsuitable for a casual swim; the DNR does not recommend swimming here. Whitewater paddling requires experience. Respect construction barriers, and use current notices rather than an older map to decide whether a trail or river access is open.

Pets and park resources

Keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet, attend them and remove their waste. Pets are not allowed in buildings or at beaches. Leave quarry remains and other park resources undisturbed.

Permits and the closed campground

A free climbing permit is required. Ask the park how to obtain it for an Eldon visit during construction. Buy the appropriate vehicle permit separately from any future camping reservation. The campground closure means ordinary camping descriptions are not a current accommodation option.

Match arrival to the construction plan

Banning is near Sandstone in Pine County. The official map and guide explains the park's separate areas. The announced construction arrangements place Eldon parking at the south end in Sandstone. Under the construction closure plan starting November 9, 2026, the park's Kettle River public water access will be closed; the DNR identifies the Highway 23 landing at the north end and Robinson Quarry Park in Sandstone as alternatives.

Nearby parks

• Robinson Quarry Park: in Sandstone just south of Banning, with an alternative Kettle River landing identified by the DNR.
• Moose Lake State Park: in Moose Lake, with its own road entrance at 4252 County Road 137.

Activities under the construction plan

The DNR’s announced plan lists Eldon bouldering and the designated snowmobile route as exceptions to the main closure. Confirm current access with the park before arranging a trip. Use the snowmobile route only when conditions permit, and arrange parking outside the park. Neither exception reopens the rest of Banning.

When access is restored, the 1.8-mile Quarry Loop offers packed-dirt and rock surfaces beside historic quarry remains. The separate Hell's Gate section has narrow passages and steep drops, and the DNR does not recommend it for small children. Confirm access before planning either walk.

Facilities under reconstruction

The campground and day-use projects include accessibility improvements to campsites, paths, parking and toilets. These are planned upgrades, not a promise that the new facilities are available. Follow the DNR closure and construction notice for the timetable and open-area exceptions.

A protected river and a worked landscape

Sandstone quarrying

A quarry operated here during the 1800s. Stone was cut, crushed and loaded for rail transport. Minnesota established Banning State Park in 1963, protecting a landscape where industrial remains now stand beside the river.

River woods and wildflowers

Wooded river corridors support birds and seasonal wildflowers. The Skunk Cabbage and Trillium trail names reflect that plant life. Wet spring ground and seasonal access restrictions affect how visitors can explore it.

Check access with park staff

Call 320-216-3910 or email [email protected] for park questions. The mailing address is P.O. Box 643, Sandstone, MN 55072; it is not a trailhead address.