Whitewater Camping

 

Bridge in meadows

No, this is not a new extreme sport. We've expanded our state park visits to Minnesota. First up Whitewater State Park about half way between La Crosse and Rochester. Set in a valley surrounded by Driftless Bluffs, and a river really runs through it.





Whitewater River


The Whitewater River a long winding trout stream that has no bounds. Fed by springs and water shed from the hills it snakes between campgrounds and hiking trails.






Two leafed Miterwort

After recent heavy rains it was showing it true nature, shoving anything that gets in its way and cutting away banks and deposits from past floods.

Some may remember the torrential downpours in 2007, when over 10 inches fell in the area.. Nearly all the bridges in Whitewater State Park have been replaced and a new campground is currently under development.





Woodland Phlox








Nodding Trillium

We hiked trails through the meadow, along the trout stream and up the bluffs. Spring's flowers were everywhere. Here's a few that I usually don't come across.




 

Allegheny Monkey Flower

Columbine

We traveled to another area in search of Bluebells at Carley State Park. Unfortunately were past bloom. They even have a festival in early May to commemorate the event. I guess will put this on the to do list for next year.