Trails, Beaches & Playgrounds — Discover the Magic of Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Lake Elmo Park Reserve Address: 1515 Keats Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042
About Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Looking for a scenic outdoor escape that’s equal parts peaceful and playful? Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers 2,165 acres of natural beauty just east of the Twin Cities, making it one of the best spots for families to unplug, explore, and recharge together. With a swimming pond, sandy beach, nature playground, hiking trails, and even horseback riding, it’s an all-seasons haven for kids and parents alike.
Whether you’re planning a summer splash day or a fall hike through golden woods, Lake Elmo Park Reserve is full of wide-open space and family-friendly fun. Entry requires a Washington County Parks daily or annual pass, but the variety of activities and scenery make it more than worth it.
Bring a picnic, pack some snacks, and plan to stay a while—this peaceful slice of Minnesota wilderness is one the whole family will love.
Family-Friendly Activities at Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Start your visit at the swimming pond, a filtered, chlorinated oasis with a sandy beach that’s ideal for kids. The zero-depth entry makes it perfect for little ones, and there’s a shaded picnic area nearby when it’s time for lunch or a break from the sun.
Right next to the pond is the Nature Adventure Playground—a favorite for toddlers through tweens. Built into a wooded hillside, it features natural climbing structures, slides, log balance beams, and tunnels. It’s nature-inspired play at its best!
For active families, the trail system offers something for every age and ability, with over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, or skiing in the winter. Choose a short stroll through the woods or go big with a loop around Eagle Point Lake.
Feeling adventurous? Sign up for horseback riding, or in winter, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing—equipment rentals are often available on-site or nearby. Kids also love watching wildlife and spotting birds along the quieter prairie trails.
Looking for an overnight adventure? Lake Elmo offers camping cabins, modern campsites, and equestrian campsites, making it easy to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway.
Lake Elmo Park Reserve Highlights
- Chlorinated swimming pond with sandy beach (open in summer)
- Nature Adventure Playground with natural elements
- 20+ miles of hiking, biking, and winter trails
- Horseback riding trails
- Year-round camping options, including camper cabins
- Picnic shelters and scenic overlooks
- Winter sledding hill and groomed ski trails
- Snowshoe and ski rentals available seasonally
- Dog-friendly with off-leash exercise areas
- Fishing Pier
- Archery Range
Know Before You Go
- Website
- Open daily from 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
- A Washington County Park vehicle permit is required for entry
- Swimming pond is open seasonally with designated hours
- Modern restrooms, showers, and changing rooms are available near the pond and campground
- Check the website for trail maps, seasonal updates, and rental information
Events & Extras
- Nature programs and educational hikes are offered throughout the year
- Stargazing events, family camping weekends, and fall colors tours
- Cabin and group campsite reservations available online
Related Article: Plan the Perfect Day Out at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve
