Most reviewed Bodies of Water in Minnesota


  1. 4.5 Bde Maka Ska (611 reviews)
    - Walking Around Bde Maka Ska
    Bodies of Water
    Bde Maka Ska image
    Good trip. We arrived at approximately 8 pm and made our way towards the trail surrounding the lake. There were multiple parking spots available around the circumference of the lake. We walked a portion of the trail, that had unobstructed views of the lake all around us. We also watched the sunset from the location as well. Tip: I recommend spending 30 minutes here (more if you want to walk the entire length of the trail) See more..
  2. 4.5 Lake Harriet (600 reviews)
    - Beautiful in all seasons . A destination
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Harriet image
    Beautiful in all seasons. Ran around the lake a few years ago for the Minneapolis Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, and enjoy coming in the summer spring and fall for a walk around the lake and people and dog watching. There are parking lots, and often street parking available . See more..
  3. 5.0 Chain of Lakes (412 reviews)
    - Beautiful!
    Bodies of Water
    Chain of Lakes image
    Three separate lakes (Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet) all surrounded by pedestrian paths. See more..
  4. 5.0 Lake of the Isles (329 reviews)
    - Walking Around Lake of the Isles
    Bodies of Water
    Lake of the Isles image
    Great trip! We arrived at approximately 5 pm and started the loop drive around Lake of the Isles. There were several miles worth of walking and biking trails that encircled the lake, that provided spectacular views of the water. There were many people out and about that day, and there were plenty of parking spaces to be found. The loop drive was clearly marked, and also included signs pointing to nearby attractions. Tip: I recommend spending an hour here in order to have a nice relaxing walk next to the water. See more..
  5. 4.5 Root River (228 reviews)
    - Biking the Root River Trail
    Bodies of Water
    Root River image
    Great biking along the Root River Trail that passes through the quaint town of Lanesboro. The trail runs 40 miles from Houston to Fountain. The most scenic and enjoyable stretch of the trail is between Peterson and Lanesboro. The best stops along the way are Whalen and Lanesboro. Several good places to grab food or a drink in Lanesboro. See more..
  6. 4.5 Lake Bemidji State Park (205 reviews)
    - Beautiful lakeside park-bike Paul Bunyan trail
    State Parks • Bodies of Water
    Lake Bemidji State Park image
    An outdoor paradise offering swimming, boating, fishing, biking, hiking and more. See more..
  7. 4.0 Silver Lake (142 reviews)
    - A gorgeous place to walk, run, stroll, bike, etc.!
    Bodies of Water
    Silver Lake image
    Walking around Silver Lake and hearing the water, geese and ducks is a wonderful way to relax! As you walk around, you see wildlife and when you pass around or through the playground/picnic area, you get to see people enjoying each other while their children are at play. Of course this happens on warm, sunny days but you can even find peace and harmony in the colder months just seeing nature in all her glory. Just remember to dress appropriately! ENJOY! See more..
  8. 4.5 Bear Head Lake State Park (136 reviews)
    - Great campground!
    State Parks • Bodies of Water
    Bear Head Lake State Park image
    The park's namesake 674-acre lake is a prime spot for eyeing wildlife. See more..
  9. 4.5 Leech Lake (126 reviews)
    - Beautiful lake
    Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Leech Lake image
    Located in the Chippewa National Forest, this is one of Minnesota's biggest lakes. See more..
  10. 4.5 Lake Pepin (106 reviews)
    - The birthplace of waterskiing!
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Pepin image
    Picturesque twenty-two-mile lake in the Mississippi River Valley. See more..
  11. 4.5 Como Lakeside Pavilion (86 reviews)
    - Scenic Como Lake
    Bodies of Water • Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Como Lakeside Pavilion image
    Como Park in Saint Paul is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. In addition to the free zoo, conservatory and golf course, Como Lake is worth a visit. Very scenic lake with a biking and walking path around it. The Lakeside Pavilion can also be visited. See more..
  12. 4.5 Rainy Lake (70 reviews)
    - Wonderful Family Vacation with Kids!
    Bodies of Water
    Rainy Lake image
    One of the many lakes in this watery park. See more..
  13. 4.5 Plum Creek (63 reviews)
    - Must see in Walnut Grove (museum, dugout, plum creek)
    Bodies of Water
    Plum Creek image
    Site made famous by author Laura Ingalls. See more..
  14. 4.5 Lake Itasca (61 reviews)
    - Lots of lake to explore
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Itasca image
    Located at Itasca State Park, this is where the Mississippi River begins its passage to the Gulf of Mexico. See more..
  15. 4.5 Gull Lake (49 reviews)
    - Lake is very large and pretty
    Bodies of Water
    Gull Lake image
    Fifteen-mile long lake whose surrounding area is connected to various restaurants and accommodations. See more..
  16. 4.0 Mille Lacs Lake (48 reviews)
    - Fishing
    Bodies of Water
    Mille Lacs Lake image
    Spanning more than 200 square miles in size, this is the second largest lake in Minnesota. See more..
  17. 5.0 Poplar Lake (48 reviews)
    - Beyond beautiful and great fishing
    Bodies of Water
    Poplar Lake image
    Entry point to many lakes in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. See more..
  18. 5.0 Cacade River (46 reviews)
    - VERY BEAUTIFUL
    Bodies of Water
    Cacade River image
    Waterway running through Cascade River State Park on Minnesota's North Shore. See more..
  19. 4.5 Cross River (36 reviews)
    - Fly fishing on Superior
    Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Bodies of Water
    Cross River image
    Named by a missionary priest who put up a cross at this site after arriving safely at the river's mouth. See more..
  20. 5.0 Lake Kabetogama (34 reviews)
    - Beautiful Lake
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Kabetogama image
    Love love love this lake. It's huge, it's beautiful and get out there and explore! Definitely rent a pontoon if you can. They are very reasonable for the day. We paid $250 a day thru Northern LIghts Resort and Outfitters. See more..
  21. 4.5 Parkers Lake Park (34 reviews)
    - Beautiful place to visit!
    Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water • Parks
    Parkers Lake Park image
    Finally a chance to get back to walk around the lake. Love this small lake nestled in the heart of Plymouth. Great place to walk, hangout, swim in the summer, fishing pier and a great playground. On the east end of the park is a boat launch with trailer parking as well. Love to come here to sit on the many benches by the lake and relax. See more..
  22. 5.0 Crane Lake (28 reviews)
    - Lovely lake
    Bodies of Water
    Crane Lake image
    Recreational lake in Voyageurs National Park. See more..
  23. 5.0 Baptism River (26 reviews)
    - Beautiful place to visti!
    Bodies of Water
    Baptism River image
    Part of Tettegouche State Park, this waterway drops sixty feet, creating a waterfall. See more..
  24. 4.5 Lake Miltona (26 reviews)
    - Viking Bay Resort is Wonderful!
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Miltona image
    Many famous lodges are found around the lake. See more..
  25. 5.0 Silverwood Park (21 reviews)
    - Beautiful
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Parks • Hiking Trails
    Silverwood Park image
    Lovely park. Great for birding, running, walking with family. Small play areas for kiddos. Lots of interesting sculptures outside. Nice cafe usually with an art display. Kayak rental in the summer. Popular with photographers and small weddings. Lots of good activities for families year round. Great horned owls have nested here for several years now in the spring. See more..
  26. 4.0 Lac qui Parle State Park (20 reviews)
    - Beautiful Hike
    State Parks • Bodies of Water
    Lac qui Parle State Park image
    Walked hiking trail found password. Hiking Club map needs update as a small part of trail near the Lac Qui Parle river has been rerouted. Some work on trail has started but know it will lead to a better experience. See more..
  27. 4.5 Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve (20 reviews)
    - Great place to paddle
    Bodies of Water • Biking Trails • Hiking Trails
    Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve image
    My husband and I kayak here just about twice a week when the weather is nice. Hardly anyone uses the lakes and channels during the week, so it's a fairly peaceful paddle. Lots of water birds...herons, egrets, an occasional muskrat...what's not to love about this place! See more..
  28. 4.5 Lake Le Homme Dieu (20 reviews)
    - Beautiful Lake!
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Le Homme Dieu image
    Beautiful Lake and wonderful place to live! On the pricey side of living. I don't live here but that doesn't mean I can't dream. See more..
  29. 4.5 Zippel Bay State Park (19 reviews)
    - Great beach!
    Bodies of Water
    Zippel Bay State Park image
    We didn't camp at the park, but instead stayed at a nearby cabin. However we traveled to the park every day to use the beach with our kids. My 8 year old loved that she could walk out very far into the water without it being too deep and my 5 year old loved building sand castles on the beach. I have traveled to Lake of the Woods for years for the walleye fishing, but the beach is my kids favorite part of the vacation! See more..
  30. 5.0 Excelsior Commons (19 reviews)
    - Like being on vacation!
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water
    Excelsior Commons image
    What more could you want? Beautiful views of the Lake, space to run, sit, picnic. A band stand, baseball field, tennis courts, a public beach... All within 2 minute walks of lovely Excelsior with its quaint shops and restaurants . See more..
  31. 4.5 Pigeon River (19 reviews)
    - Absolutely Gorgeous!
    Bodies of Water
    Pigeon River image
    Site of High Falls, Minnesota's tallest waterfalls. See more..
  32. 5.0 Birch Lake (17 reviews)
    - Beautiful Lake
    Bodies of Water
    Birch Lake image
    Very beautiful lake that is not busy either which makes it awesome. 30 miles long and plenty of fishing there also!! See more..
  33. 5.0 Caribou River (17 reviews)
    - Make a stop here!
    Bodies of Water
    Caribou River image
    Our family always makes a stop here on our way up north. Wear comfortable water shoes (so you can wade in the water and walk the trail). The beginning of the trail is very mild, you can walk right onto the stream which is so beautiful and I haven't found it to be too crowded when we've gone. The hike to the fall can be moderately difficult if you have mobility issues, the path is not paved and there are lots of roots that protrude from the ground. Once near the falls, there are stairs going down to the fall and the water level isn't high, maybe waist high all the way to the fall. The stairs going back up are another story - just be prepared and hydrated. See more..
  34. 3.5 Big Stone Lake State Park (16 reviews)
    - Weekend getaway
    Bodies of Water
    Big Stone Lake State Park image
    Always so fun here. Fishing usually great! Shopping in town is fun and beverage at several local bars is a great time! State park is close and so is refuge. Just love Ortonville :) See more..
  35. 4.0 Warner Lake Park (16 reviews)
    - What a gem
    Bodies of Water
    Warner Lake Park image
    I've lived in Annandale 30 years and hadn't heard of this park. The swim beach is great, even has lots of shade, lots of trails, good bathrooms and picnic areas. This is our new favorite park. We will definitely spend a lot of time here. Fishing pier and boat launch were in great shape. Ample parking, everything seemed well kept. See more..
  36. 5.0 Rainy Lake Visitor Center (16 reviews)
    - Must do!
    Spent < 1 hour Bodies of Water • National Parks • Hiking Trails
    Rainy Lake Visitor Center image
    Of the 3 visitors centers in Voyageurs National Park, this one seems to have the most to offer. We intended to take a tour from Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, but literally missed the boat because we didn't book early. Rainy Lake Visitor Center wasn't even on our to-do list, but because the next available boat tour debarked there, we made the drive. So dang glad we did. Ranger Eric was on staff in the center, & we learned a lot from him as we just chatted. Turns out, he was also our guide for our boat tour later that day. He was just dynamite! We also walked the short Ethno-botanical Garden trail, which is on-site. Don't overlook this Visitor Center! It's so worth a visit! See more..
  37. 4.0 Lake Kohlmier (14 reviews)
    - Biking, hiking, resting, walking, skiing, skating, fishing
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Kohlmier image
    Owatonna lake complete with a swimming beach. See more..
  38. 4.5 Rum River (13 reviews)
    - Great place to walk and relax!
    Bodies of Water
    Rum River image
    The walking path along the east side of the Rum River in Anoka is a wonderful place to walk, talk and relax with others or by yourself. The grounds are kept very neat and clean as well. Love the serenity of the water, the trees and nature itself! See more..
  39. 4.5 Cuyuna Mine Pits (13 reviews)
    - Mountain Biking, trout fishing, cycling, and beautiful scenic views
    Bodies of Water
    Cuyuna Mine Pits image
    This is a day trip must if you visit the Brainerd area. The mountain biking is amazing. Many beautiful lakes filled with fish including trout. See more..
  40. 4.5 Lake Vermilion (10 reviews)
    - We liked it so much we moved here.
    Spent More than 3 hours Bodies of Water
    Lake Vermilion image
    The lake and the people we have met are simply amazing. Views and sunsets are beautiful. Very peaceful. See more..
  41. 4.5 Angleworm Lake (10 reviews)
    - Pictographs
    Bodies of Water • Hiking Trails
    Angleworm Lake image
    Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness scenic lake which is an entry point for canoeing. See more..
  42. 4.0 Sauk Lake (8 reviews)
    - Babbitt's Wine Bar in Sauk Center
    Bodies of Water
    Sauk Lake image
    Sauk Centre Lake where author Sinclair Lewis fished as a boy. See more..
  43. 4.5 Lake Byllesby Regional Park (6 reviews)
    - Waterfall
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Parks • Playgrounds
    Lake Byllesby Regional Park image
    We went to the Goodhue County Park side of the lake. There is a bridge across the river where you can see the waterfall, a fishing dock and a swimming beach. Great day! See more..
  44. 4.5 Point Douglas County Park (6 reviews)
    - Scenic Spot Where the St Croix Joins the Mississippi
    Bodies of Water • Beaches • Playgrounds
    Point Douglas County Park image
    I rode my bike here on a cycle tour around Hastings which included pedaling across the Hastings Bridge before turning east. The park is situated on an incredibly scenic spot where the St Croix River joins the Mississippi River near Prescott Wisconsin. It’s a good spot for a picnic plus there is a beach and there was several people fishing in the channel. See more..
  45. 4.5 Cut Face Creek (6 reviews)
    - Very cool rest area stop
    Bodies of Water
    Cut Face Creek image
    The restrooms are primitive, but clean. There are beautiful views from the picnic tables and dog walking area. But the real gem is the nice stair walk down to the water front and the available short hike along the pebble beach. See more..
  46. 3.0 Laurentian Divide (5 reviews)
    - Nothing to see really
    Bodies of Water
    Located in the northeast section of Minnesota, this hill is nearly 100 miles long. See more..
  47. 5.0 Lake Gegoka (4 reviews)
    - Beautiful wild lake
    Bodies of Water
    Lake Gegoka image
    Located in the Superior National Forest, this body of water offers miles of cross-country ski trails along its shores. See more..
  48. 5.0 Eagle Lake Regional Park (4 reviews)
    - Nice Park on a Calm Lake
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water • Parks
    Eagle Lake Regional Park image
    Eagle Lake Regional Park is definitely a place worth exploring, whether you're staying on land or enjoying the water. Eagle Lake feels more like a residential/neighborhood body of water than a busy party lake. Boat traffic is rarely excessive. The park itself is beautiful no matter when you visit. This area certainly deserves a visit in any season. See more..
  49. 5.0 Namakan Island (4 reviews)
    - Beautiful Setting for camping!
    Bodies of Water
    Namakan Island image
    Large island area in Voyageurs National Park that offers camping and other outdoor activities. See more..
  50. 5.0 Cannon River (3 reviews)
    - Great for Kayaking or Tubing
    Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Cannon River image
    There are several ways to enjoy the scenic Cannon River including biking along the excellent Cannon Valley Trail or kayaking or tubing on the river. One of the most popular places to go tubing near the Twin Cities See more..

Top Things to do in Minnesota