Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, provides outdoor playgrounds throughout the state. Numerous parks are planted within the natural settings of evergreen forests, clear lakes, rivers and streams. The state is a fishing haven. Walleye, trout and pike are found in the cold fresh waters that populate the region. Outdoor activity does not diminish during the winter season. Most county parks offer challenging and beginner trails for cross-country skiing.
Anoka County
If the family enjoys outdoor water parks, Bunker Hills Regional Park in Coon Rapids is a place to visit. Complete with a 25,000 square-foot wave pool, water slides and a large zero entry pool, this aquatic center offers wet and wild fun. When it's time to get out of the water, head over the Bunker Park Stable and saddle up. Bunker Hills offers well groomed trails and pony rides for the little ones. Other park amenities include hiking, golf and archery. Camping is allowed through most of October.
Brown County
If you are a history buff, plan a visit to Lake Hanska Park in New Ulm. Studies by archaeologists who excavated the land determined that pre-historic hunters roamed the area from 500 B.C. to around 1,000 A.D. You can also tour the Omsrud/Torgrimson log cabin that dates back to the 1850s. The park maintains it as a memorial to Norwegian pioneers who first lived in the county.
Lake Hanska is a common spot to fish for walleye. The camping season runs from May 1 to the first day in October. Visitors may frequent the park year round to enjoy summer swimming and winter cross-country skiing.
Beltrami County
Three Island County Park is defined by 3,000 forested acres, the Turtle River and boat access to Three Island Lake. Walleye and northern pike are a common lake catch. Due to the natural resource management department's trail grooming efforts, the park is a popular spot for cross-country skiing. There are over 400 miles of snowmobile trails in the county, one of which runs through the park. Grouse, water fowl and deer hunting are permissible during the designated seasons.
Becker County
Home to a portion of Minnesota's first international birding trail is Dunton Locks County Park in the northwestern region of the state. The park is also a common place to picnic and hike. A unique park feature is the tram. During the summer season, ride the tram from Lake Sallie to Muskrat Lake. Seasonal fishing can be done off the pier. In winter, bring your skis and traverse the cross-country trails.
Sterns County
Over one mile of frontage along the Mississippi River makes the Mississippi River County Park a popular spot for fishing and canoeing. During pleasant weather, challenge friends to a round of disc golf on the 12-hole course. Cross-country skiers will appreciate the park's ski trails that wind along the river and through the woods. Trail terrains are recommended for both beginner and intermediate skiers. Additionally the park offers a one-mile trail for winter hikes.
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