Denver to Minneapolis Road Trip Guide

Make Prewitt Reservoir in Merino your first stop, and you definitely won't regret it. The lake spans about 3.8 square miles and offers year-round fishing for walleye, bluegill, channel catfish, trout, and crappie. The surrounding Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area provides excellent opportunities for hunting waterfowl and deer, plus hiking trails through unique prairie landscapes.

The reservoir offers primitive camping options along the shore, and there's a private RV park nearby for comfortable overnight stays. Bird watching enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse waterfowl populations, especially during spring and fall migrations.

This hidden gem provides a perfect mid-route stop with excellent fishing and boating opportunities. The recreation area features a sandy beach, perfect for families wanting to stretch their legs and enjoy water activities. Camping facilities include sites with electrical hookups and modern restroom facilities.

Lake Helen sits adjacent to the Platte River corridor, creating diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. The area offers excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution—perfect for peaceful evenings around the campfire.

Known as the Premier Drag and Road Course in Iowa and Nebraska, this recreational driving facility features various vehicles ranging from race cars to motorcycles, providing plenty of variety to keep you engaged. The facility offers food services and camping sites with electric hookups, making it a unique overnight stop for racing enthusiasts.

This venue hosts regular events throughout the season, so check their schedule for special races or car shows that might coincide with your travel dates.

Big Creek State Park in Polk City is considered one of the most beautiful places to spend time outdoors in Iowa—and for good reason. The park centers around Big Creek Lake, offering excellent fishing for bass, walleye, and catfish. Multiple hiking trails wind through diverse habitats, from prairie grasslands to oak woodlands.

The park's campground features sites with electrical hookups and modern facilities. Big Creek Beach provides swimming opportunities during warmer months, while the marina offers boat rentals for those wanting to explore Saylorville Lake

River Bend Nature Center offers guests opportunities to participate in environmental education programs, plus conservation and recreational activities. Open year-round, you'll be able to visit anytime. The center features ten miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, biking, or wildlife observation.

The nature center provides free admission and offers seasonal programming including guided nature walks and educational demonstrations. Several RV campgrounds in the Faribault area provide convenient access to this attraction.

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a true gem nestled in the heart of Nebraska, sprawling across 130 acres of beautifully designed habitats featuring the largest indoor desert and rainforest in North America. This world-class attraction provides an excellent educational stop for families, with interactive exhibits and diverse ecosystems.

For RV parking, several campgrounds near Omaha accommodate large rigs. The West Omaha / NE Lincoln KOA offers excellent facilities and convenient access to city attractions.