Here are some photos of Whitewater, Forestville and Carley State Parks and the surrounding areas, part of the driftless area.

Let's get this out of the way first:)








There are Rainbows, Browns and Brookies available in the Whitewater area, not totally sure about the Root River.





Brookies in Trout Run Creek


I caught my biggest Rainbow in Carley State Park but the real reason I go there is the hiking and the most incredible display of Bluebells(and many other wildflowers as well) in late April - they stretch as far as the eye can see on both shores and it is beautiful. Pretty difficult to capture the feel with a photo but...





The hillside on the other side of the river is covered as well...




Beautiful flowers





Birding is incredible down there with more variety than I have ever seen in one place before. Between Whitewater State Park and the Mississippi River there is a huge(many miles long) wildlife refuge with a gravel road that runs alongside it which is gorgeous and always loaded with many larger bird species, in addition to the park itself.








Behind the Whitewater office there are some feeders out that always attract a huge variety of birds, so much fun to see and photograph








Now for some scenery...





The Whitewater River in the park






A shot from the Wildlife refuge





A broader view of the refuge





A couple years ago while hiking I discovered this hidden oasis along the Root River; a nice gravel spot for lunch and viewing the birds and the scenery in total peace. Didn't have my fishing gear with me though.





Another shot of the Root River in Forestville State Park.


This area has so much to offer and I have only scratched the surface in my explorations. I will be back as long as I am able.

what is the closest town to get a room for overnight for extra exploring time?

Mocha, Whitewater State Park is located just outside of Elba, MN. If you take Hwy 74 NE out of Elba it is a good gravel road that runs most of 18 miles(there is some pavement too on both ends) to Highway 61 and Weaver Bottoms. Turn left (north) there and about 15 minutes is Wabasha, MN with several lodging options. You can also get to the park this way and is often the way I go. The drive along the Wildlife Management area is definitely a big part of why I keep going back, just a really cool area. It offers a pleasant although slow drive with some beautiful scenery and multiple spots to pull off and get a little closer to the views. There is a very good chance to view wildlife and an excellent chance to see lots of birds of all types and sizes. The whole area is very scenic because it is part of the driftless area. The fishing, birding and wildflowers in the two parks themselves is also a big draw for me. BTW this whole area and particularly Whitewater State Park is known for a significant lack of mosquitoes!!

About 25 miles west of Elba is Rochester along normal highways and obviously offers lots off lodging options as well.

Hope you check it out, I don't think you will be disappointed.


A few more photos(you said you like photos)



The Whitewater River in the park itself














Trout Run Creek in the park is a great place to hike and catch a few brookies if you are so inclined







The gravel road and more of the Refuge













A few more birds from the area























Lots of wildflowers





Hope you go and enjoy!!