“Enhancing our quality of life, while preserving our natural treasures”
The Stearns County Parks Department was established in 1974 and currently manages over 2600 acres of parks and trails. The recreational resources are so diverse, there is indeed something for everyone. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular in the summer. There are winter trails for walking, snowshoeing, riding fat-tire bikes, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. The prairie restoration sites, the Scientific and Natural Area, and the Nature Preserves reveal a variety of wildlife, birds, plants, and flowers. Historic sites give us a glimpse of the past. See an old mill site or explore the exhibits and artifacts of the granite industry. Lakes, Rivers, and Quarries: There’s something about being on the water in Minnesota in the summertime. Enjoy fishing, boating, canoeing, scuba diving, and swimming. (No lifeguards). Many of the parks are located along the Sauk River Canoe Route. Picnic Areas and Shelters: Picnic tables and grills can be found throughout the parks. Larger picnic shelters can be reserved for family or business events. Nature Center at Warner Lake or Open-Air Shelters at Mississippi River, Spring Hill, Two Rivers Lake, Warner Lake, and Rockville County Parks. Additional activities such as rock climbing, disc golf, archery, and geocaching are available in various parks. There are bicycle and canoe campsites for those traveling through, and group camps for non-profit youth groups. Trailer camping and camper cabins are available at Lake Koronis Regional Park. There’s a lot to do in Stearns County Parks! Escape into the great outdoors. Experience lakes, rivers, prairies and woods. Explore nature as it evolves, season after season, year after year.
