Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

Southeastern Minnesota is known for its stunning landscape: scenic bluffs, lush forests, winding rivers, gleaming trout streams. It’s no wonder this area is a popular recreational destination for those that love to hike, hunt, and fish. But despite its natural beauty, there’s a great need for accessible outdoor spaces as only 5% of the region is open for public recreation. 

At Trust for Public Land, we’re passionate about creating the places that bring us all outside, which is why we helped expand the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest. With our partners at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), we helped add over 257 acres about three miles away from the City of Rushford in July 2025. And our work didn’t stop there. In March 2026, we added an additional 155 acres along the mighty Zumbro River, which will help combat flooding.  

The outdoor recreational opportunities are endless at this state forest! Beyond camping, hiking, hunting, and wildlife observation, it will be easy to spend time in nature year-round with public snowmobile trails. Our collective work also helps maintain this area’s restored native habitat and water quality of the watershed, meaning Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest can continue to be a beloved space to enjoy for generations to come. 

Funding for this project was provided from the Outdoor Heritage Fund as recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.