My Local Guide

Refuge Landscapes and Parks Close to Home

Sherburne County, Minnesota

Sherburne County’s outdoor identity includes the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, Sand Dunes State Forest, and a network of local parks and trails. These places have different managers and purposes. The county’s recreation directory is a useful starting point for choosing an outing and understanding where to find current information. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated 104,194 residents in Sherburne County, Minnesota, on July 1, 2025.

Sherburne County at a Glance

Population104,194 (July 1, 2025 Census estimate)
County SeatElk River
Largest MunicipalityLitchfield
Established1856
ZIP Codes12
Total Area, Including Water451.043 square miles, including water (2020 Census geography)
Major RoutesI-55 - IL-16 - IL-127
Area Codes217
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Greenfield County courthouse
Discover Sherburne County

Sherburne County

Sherburne County's recreation landscape is shaped by several kinds of public land. County parks sit alongside city and township spaces, wildlife areas, and state and federal destinations. The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and Sand Dunes State Forest are prominent examples, while county properties include Grams Park and Oak Savanna Park. That mix gives the area a varied outdoor character. It also makes land ownership important: a county park's rules should not be assumed to apply to a nearby refuge or state forest.

Begin with the county's parks and trails directory to compare locations such as Grams Park, Island View Park, and the Great Northern Regional Trail. For a trip to the refuge or state forest, consult that property's managing agency as well. Check current access notices and permitted activities before setting out. The county's own parks guidance also provides picnic shelter information and rules for pets, helping residents plan ordinary outings with fewer surprises.

What Shapes Us

Local Character

Sherburne County's outdoor identity includes the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, Sand Dunes State Forest, and a network of local parks and trails.

Community Story

Sherburne County's recreation landscape is shaped by several kinds of public land. County parks sit alongside city and township spaces, wildlife areas, and state and federal destinations.

Explore Locally

Begin with the county's parks and trails directory to compare locations such as Grams Park, Island View Park, and the Great Northern Regional Trail.

Explore the landscape and find your place outdoors
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County Resources

Find the Right Local Connection

Start with the organization responsible for the service you need. Follow its official link for current requirements, office locations and availability.

Get to Know Sherburne County

Useful answers for residents, visitors and anyone planning their next step.

Local Questions

Sherburne County Questions, Answered

Explore practical details about the county and the organizations that serve it.

104,194 (July 1, 2025 Census estimate). This is a dated Census Bureau estimate, rather than a live resident count.

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Meet Local Businesses

Support the businesses that help make our communities thrive. From family-owned shops and restaurants to trusted local services, discover businesses worth visiting throughout the county.

My Local Guide

Find Something Fun

Make Time to Explore

Browse local places by the kind of day you have in mind.

Kids' Fun

  1. Highland Playgroup
  2. Wonder Works Science Center
  3. Giggle Junction
  4. Little Explorers Museum
  5. Discovery Park
  6. Greenfield Splash Pad
  7. Storytime Corner
  8. Adventure Zone
  9. Mini Makers Studio
  10. County Fairgrounds
  11. Family Fun Center
  12. Junior Nature Club

Restaurants

  1. Olive & Oak
  2. The Daily Dish
  3. Harbor House Grill
  4. Sunrise Diner
  5. Greenfield Table
  6. County Line Cafe
  7. Brick Oven Kitchen
  8. Maple Street Bistro
  9. The Local Plate
  10. Hometown Barbecue
  11. River Bend Grill
  12. Harvest Kitchen

Shopping & Retail

  1. Market Square General Store
  2. Home & Hearth
  3. The Book Nook
  4. Local Threads
  5. Greenfield Mercantile
  6. County Market
  7. Garden Gate Goods
  8. Prairie Home Supply
  9. Cornerstone Gifts
  10. Main Street Finds
  11. Heritage Antiques
  12. Artisan Hall

Clothing & Boutiques

  1. Uptown Boutique
  2. Thread & Co.
  3. Modern Muse
  4. Vintage Charm
  5. Willow & Co.
  6. Prairie Rose Apparel
  7. Sunday Best
  8. County Clothiers
  9. Evergreen Outfitters
  10. The Wardrobe
  11. Oak & Linen
  12. Market Street Style

Outdoor Fun

  1. Riverfront Adventures
  2. Summit Trail Outfitters
  3. Lakeside Kayaks
  4. Trailhead Co.
  5. Greenfield Lake
  6. Prairie Ridge Trail
  7. County Conservation Area
  8. Hillsboro Sports Park
  9. Sunset Campground
  10. Oak Valley Stables
  11. Meadow Creek Preserve
  12. Scenic Route 16

Free Things To Do

  1. City Park
  2. Downtown Walking Tour
  3. Community Art Wall
  4. Farmers Market
  5. Courthouse Square
  6. Public Library Events
  7. Lake Overlook
  8. Historic Marker Trail
  9. Summer Concert Series
  10. Community Garden
  11. Heritage Museum Day
  12. Holiday Main Street Walk
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