Discovery Sites
How to get there: Off of US 169/MN 60 just west of Blue Earth River Bridge where the Blue Earth River flows into the Minnesota River.
What you will find: This park offers camping, hiking, river access, fishing, and the Floyd Roberts Jr. Pavilion for community events. The park also includes soccer fields, an open area for disc golf and bike trails, and an annual Wacipi (Pow Wow).
Services at this site: Yes
The Dakota people historically gathered here each fall to trade goods and share ideas at the confluence of the Blue Earth and Minnesota Rivers. However, after the events of the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, the Dakota viewed Mankato as a place of tragedy and heartbreak. The Mahkato Wacipi (pow wow), which began in 1971, started to heal that sentiment. Land of Memories Park is the home to the Mahkato Wacipi every September.
Things to Do: Discovery Site, Outdoor Activities, U.S. - Dakota War of 1862
