Jay Cooke State Park - Carlton, MN
Jay Cooke State Park – Pet-Friendly Park in Carlton, Minnesota
Located along the scenic St. Louis River, Jay Cooke State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and dog lovers alike. Known for its unique rock formations, river rapids, and the iconic swinging bridge, the park offers a variety of dog-friendly hiking and walking trails for all skill levels, including well-manicured paths and more rugged roots-and-rocks tracks.
This park is highly rated for its clean campground, updated restrooms, and exceptionally friendly staff. It’s a great spot to let your dogs experience nature—pups especially enjoy swimming in the shallow river pools. With ample opportunities to hike, relax, and enjoy breathtaking views, this pet-friendly park is a top pick for dog owners looking to explore the beauty of Carlton, Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Jay Cooke State Park features several hiking and walking trails with paths suitable for all abilities.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, the park offers updated, very clean bathrooms for visitors.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, dogs can enjoy swimming in the shallow pools that form along the river.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, reviews highlight the presence of very friendly and informative staff.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, visitors should be aware of mosquitoes, especially near the river and during certain seasons.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the campground and facilities, including restrooms, are described as extremely clean and well-kept.
Reviews
It’s a lovely setting, but be wary of the mosquitoes. It’s wild out there! It’s a bit challenging if you take a walk along the river. Just be aware. Wear suitable gear.
Absolutely stunning state park. With lots of places to walk and bike ride if that’s your thing. The view from the bridge is breathtaking. The campsites are well kept and spacious. The bathrooms are fairly new, and I dare say some of the cleanest I’ve seen in a while. The staff is friendly and informative. Jay Cooke state park is a 10/10 in my opinion.
This one was a bit shocking to me, it was so much better than what I was expecting. I stayed in the campground and it was so clean, the Schaur house and bathrooms were so clean and it was set up as well as could be. Walking down to the swinging bridge and crossing the mighty St. Louis, seeing all the awesome rock formations, and then being able to finish off the evening at the river in building with a fire is nothing short of a perfect stay.
Beautiful state park. Hiking is awesome and the river rapids area is stunning. Our dogs loved swimming in the shallow pools that form. Campground areas were great. Bathrooms are updated and super clean. Staff was very friendly. Will visit again for sure!
Love this park. Great unique rock structures, plenty of rapids to see. Short gentle hike to get upriver. Less able hikers can take the well manicured path. More able hikers can take the roots and rocks path. Cool bridge over the river does bounce a bit.