BEST OF THE RIVER 2019 

Best of the River is focused on the best attractions, accommodations,  food & drink, and trails & tours along the Great River Road from northern Minnesota down to the Gulf of Mexico.

Best State Park

1.Pere Marquette State Park (Grafton, IL)

Pere Marquette State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Illinois River and its backwaters from several points atop the bluffs.

2.Perrot State Park (Trempealeau, WI)

Perrot State Park, where the Trempealeau River meets the Mississippi River, offers breathtaking views from 500-foot bluffs. Provide wonderful habitat for many migratory birds.

3.Yellow River State Forest (Harpers Ferry, IA)

Yellow River Forest is located in Allamakee County in northeast Iowa.  It has the Big Paint Creek, Little Paint Creek and equestrian campgrounds.

4.Wyalusing State Park (Bagley, WI)

At Wyalusing State Park, camp 500 feet above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi river, with several scenic overlooks of the river valleys below.

5.(tie) Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site (Wickliffe, KY) & Wildcat Den State Park (Muscatine, IA)

This Native American Indian archaeological site features mounds surrounded by abundant wildlife, museum exhibits, a walking trail, welcome center, a gift shop and picnic areas.

A major feature of Wildcat Den State Park is its trail system. Trails wind through a variety of terrain and lead to Steamboat Rock, Devil’s Punch Bowl, and Fat Man’s Squeeze.

See results for Best of the River 2019

In 2019, thousands submitted their Best of The River choices in categories ranging from best cultural trail, best monument, best public art, best river boat tour, best brewery and more.