Family Fun Starts Here: Baker Park Reserve Adventures
Address: 2309 County Road 19 Maple Plain, MN 55359
About the Baker Park Reserve with Kids
If your family loves the outdoors, Baker Park Reserve in Maple Plain is a must-visit destination in Minnesota. Located on scenic Lake Independence, this expansive park offers something enjoyable for every season. If you’re looking for an afternoon playground adventure, a weekend camping trip, or a snowy cross-country ski outing, you’ll find it here! Baker makes it easy to connect as a family while soaking in Minnesota’s great outdoors. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to introduce your kids to the joys of the great outdoors in Minnesota!
Outdoor Adventures & Trails at Baker Park Reserve
For day visitors, the sandy beach on Lake Independence is a favorite in the summer. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the beach is free, easily accessible, and a favorite among local families. In addition to swimming, families can explore the water by boating or paddling. The dedicated fishing pier is a great spot to introduce kids to fishing in Minnesota!
Baker Park Reserve is also home to miles of hiking trails! Routes can be found for all interests and abilities across the reserve. Plus, it has paved biking routes. Biking paths wind through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Mountain bikers have their own thrilling trails, too! Wildlife sightings are common here! Bring binoculars for birdwatching with your kids. The park also offers family archery programs.
In the winter, families still find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Baker Park Reserve offers miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Not to mention, exciting sledding runs!
This is just the beginning of the many outdoor adventures at Baker Park Reserve.
Family Play at Baker Park Reserve
One of the biggest highlights for families is the creative play area (which was redesigned in 2021 with direct input from kids and parents!). It features a massive climbing structure, a nearly nine-foot-tall slide, and a thrilling 100-foot zip line.
There’s also inclusive equipment, allowing children of all ages and abilities to join in the fun. Shaded seating and nearby picnic areas make it easy for parents to relax while kids climb, zip, and explore to their hearts’ content.
Related Article: Gale Woods Farm: The Perfect Day Trip Near the Twin Cities
Camping at Baker Park Reserve
If your crew enjoys camping, Baker Park offers over 200 sites, including both electric and non-electric options. They even have five cozy camper cabins! These cabins feature screened porches, bunks, electricity, and are conveniently located near restrooms with showers. They are perfect for families who love camping but also want a few modern comforts.
Reserve Highlights
- Located on scenic Lake Independence
- 19.8 miles of year-round hiking trails
- 12.5 miles of biking trails, with 5.2 miles of dedicated mountain bike trails
- Playground equipment for kids
- Boating, swimming, paddling, and fishing access
- 9-hole and 18-hole golf courses
- 9.1 miles of cross-country ski trails and 6.3 miles of snowshoe trails in the winter
- 12.5 miles of dog-friendly trails
- 203 campsites
Know Before You Go
- Website
- Hours: Grounds and trails are open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Parking is available in an on-site parking lot.
- Upcoming Events
- Accessibility Resources
- Birthday Parties
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
