Top riverfront photo locations in Saint Paul, MN.

As a photographer in Minnesota, I love to utilize our many lakes and rivers for my photoshoots. Some of my favorite locations are located along the Mississippi River. Check out my top photo spots! 

Harriet Island

Harriet Island is super versatile. It’s easy to get to, there’s plenty of free parking, and the variety of backdrops is endless. If you’re forced to shoot in less-than-ideal lighting (hello, high noon on a sunny day), there are plenty of areas with open shade for soft, even light — even for large groups. Whether you want nature, riverfront, or a bit of cityscape, Harriet Island has something for you. It’s also a great option if you have family members with limited mobility. Bathrooms are on site (closed seasonally), but there’s a portapotty available year-round.

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Kellogg Mall Park

I love this area. In the warmer months there’s a fountain, the railings are striking, and it overlooks the Mississippi River for a beautiful view. It also sits between two very different bridges, which means you can get completely different looks just by crossing over. Parking can be a little tricky, but you can usually find meter parking within a block or two. There are fewer areas for even light, so it’s more workable with a smaller group. No bathrooms here.

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Crosby Farm Regional Park

Crosby is where you want to go if you have a little extra time and you want things to feel more private. The riverbank is sandy and secluded, with plenty of beach to explore. The walking paths are lovely, and the fallen trees and exposed roots make a great little adventure spot for kids. Make sure you double check the map and navigate to the end of the park that's closer to the Watergate Marina, not the entrance near highway 35. If you go to the other lot you'll have to walk a much greater distance to get to the riverbank! Bathrooms are on site but closed seasonally.

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Hidden Falls

There’s a boat launch here, and a large picnic area so it’s usually busier than Crosby, but the walk to the water is much quicker. Because of the position of the sun and the curve of the Mississippi River, the light lasts a little longer here than it does at Crosby. If you need an extra 10 minutes at golden hour, skip Crosby and head to Hidden Falls near the boat launch. There’s a portapotty on site, and bathrooms are open seasonally.

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Shadow Falls

This is the only location that isn’t handicapped accessible. It overlooks the river from cliffs that can be a little treacherous, but the view from up high is beautiful — especially in the fall when the color comes in. There’s a hidden waterfall you can hear if the flow is heavy enough. It’s one of my favorite little secret spots. Getting down to the falls can be a challenge. Portapotty on site.

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Lilydale Regional Park

Lilydale is one of my absolute favorites — and honestly, kind of a hidden gem (you’re welcome, fellow photogs). The fall color near Pickerel Lake is stunning, and those prairie grasses photograph beautifully! Watch out for ticks, especially in the warmer months, and double-check the park status before you go since they do seasonal controlled burns. This area is quiet, secluded, and even a great place to bird watch. Pickerel lake is a haven for a variety of waterfowl, including the occasional swan. The parking lot is small, so plan accordingly. Portapotty on site.

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A quick note: always watch for flooding, especially in the spring. Crosby is particularly prone to high water and may even close when the river rises.

Good news — photography permits are not required at any of these parks. If you head over to Minneapolis, though, you’ll need a permit for almost every public park.