Find a printable map of the park on the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park page. 

From community input and a partnership between Three Rivers and Brooklyn Park, the Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park and the Brooklyn Park Environmental Nature Area are becoming one. 

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park will become a year-round connection for all people to celebrate the Mississippi River. 

Nearer to the Coon Rapids Dam and the new Mississippi Gateway Center, the park will focus on the river and active recreation. Moving away from the dam, the park will become more wild with field learning stations for nature exploration.

Three Rivers and Brooklyn Park will work together, and construction will occur as funds become available.

Learn more about the master plan.

Observation Walkway

For great vistas follow the path to the observation walkway on top of the dam. Watch the ospreys high in their tower nest, search for special rocks along the river, fish, hug a 250-year-old oak tree, hunt for frogs in the wetlands or search for animal signs.

Nature Exploration Area

The nature exploration area next to the visitor center is a natural space created to encourage free play in the outdoors. Kids and adults can explore the forest, build forts and exercise their creativity.

Backpack Kits

Backpack kits are available, free of charge, for individuals and groups visiting the park. Topics are trees, birds, insects and the Mississippi River. Kits may include binoculars, fun family activities, identification books, insect nets, etc.