Discover the Natural Beauty of Buena Vista State Forest
Explore the serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Buena Vista State Forest, a nature lover's paradise in Minnesota.
Buena Vista State Forest, located near Bemidji, Minnesota, is a nature lover's paradise offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an array of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility.
A brief summary to Buena Vista State Forest
- Bemidji, Minnesota, 56601, US
- +1651-296-6157
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for stunning foliage and ideal hiking conditions.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the area is home to many species.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas.
- Check local maps and trail conditions before your visit for the best experience.
- Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, you can reach Buena Vista State Forest from Bemidji, MN. Start by heading south on MN-371 from Bemidji. After approximately 9 miles, turn left onto MN-2 E. Continue for about 12 miles and then turn right onto Buena Vista Road. Follow the signs for Buena Vista State Forest, which is located at approximately 47.5686° N latitude and -94.7125° W longitude. The drive takes about 30 minutes and there are no tolls or significant costs involved.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, the first step is to take a bus from Bemidji to Cass Lake. Once in Cass Lake, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to get to Buena Vista State Forest, as there is limited public transport directly to the forest. Make sure to check the local bus schedules on the Paul Bunyan Transit website for accurate times. Expect to pay a fare of around $1.00-$2.00 for the bus ride, and taxi fares may vary but could be around $20 to $30 depending on the distance from Cass Lake to the forest.
Discover more about Buena Vista State Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rabideau CCC Camp N.H.S.
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Seven Clans Casino, Red Lake
35.0 km
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Mississippi River Headwaters
52.2 km
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Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center
52.4 km
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Levorsen Sawmill historic site
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Rapid River Logging Camp
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Edge Center For the Arts
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Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Northernmost Point of the Mississippi River
8.4 km
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Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox Statues
16.6 km
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Paul Bunyan Park
16.6 km
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Headwaters Science Center
16.6 km
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Beltrami County History Center
17.0 km
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Mississippi Headwaters State Forest
32.6 km
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Forestedge Winery
44.8 km
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Paul Bunyan State Forest
46.0 km
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Chippewa National Forest
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Itasca State Park, North Entrance
51.4 km
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Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers (LIRPF)
51.5 km
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Walker City Park
52.9 km
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Itasca State Park, East Entrance
53.5 km
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Preacher's Grove
53.6 km
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Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center
53.8 km
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Essential places to dine
North Shore Grille
10.1 km
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The WoodShed
39.3 km
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Fish Tales Bar & Grill
44.3 km
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The Boulders
51.3 km
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Douglas Lodge Restaurant
54.3 km
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SPIKE'S
59.9 km
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Necces Italiano Restaurante
76.8 km
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Timberwolf Inn & Restaurant
78.4 km
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Thunder Lakes Deer Haven
88.7 km
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Forest Lake Restaurant
95.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
218 Clothing+Gift
16.8 km
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Roth RV
23.2 km
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Gifts O' the Wild
26.6 km
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Alida Country Store
44.3 km
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Itasca Moccasin & Gifts
46.1 km
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ROCK CREEK GENERAL STORE
51.5 km
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Itasca Sports, Inc.
52.2 km
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Tiger Lily's Boutique
52.8 km
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Terra Reflections
52.8 km
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Moose-R-Us
65.9 km
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Sandy's Gift Shop
67.1 km
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Camp 71
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Junquemonger Sales Outlet
69.0 km
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Smokey Hills Outdoor Store
75.0 km
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Angelic Enterprises
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jammers Blue Note Ballroom
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Keg N' Cork
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Leino's Riverside Pub
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Lobo's bar&grill
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RENTAL CABINS at Lobos
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Big Timbers
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Knob & Kettle Restaurant And Lounge
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The Headwaters Inn
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Bert's Cabins
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Emmaville Inn
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Vacationaire Resort & Clancy's on Island Lake
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Foxy's Bar & Grill
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Hoot Owl Resort Restaurant
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Royal Bar
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Wine Not?
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