3 Must-Visit Medicine Lake Playgrounds in Plymouth

The Ultimate Playground Day: 3 Must-Visit Parks Around Medicine Lake in Plymouth

West Medicine Lake Park: 1920 W Medicine Lake Dr, Plymouth, MN 55441

East Medicine Lake Park: 1740 E Medicine Lake Blvd, Plymouth, MN 55441

Clifton E. French Regional Park: 12605 Rockford Rd, Plymouth, MN 55441

About the Three Medicine Lake Playgrounds with Kids

If your family loves playgrounds with a view, Medicine Lake in Plymouth delivers double the fun. With three fantastic lakeside parks—Clifton E. French Regional Park, East Medicine Lake Park, and West Medicine Lake Park—you can easily fill a sunny day with sand, slides, and scenic trails.

All three parks sit along Medicine Lake’s shore, just minutes apart, making it easy to hop between them (or kayak!). Whether your children love climbing, splashing, or exploring, these parks offer plenty of free family fun.

Of course, these are also some of the best playgrounds in the Twin Cities! Parents will love the breezy lake views and picnic spots, while kids will just see endless opportunities to play. Whether you’re chasing sandy adventures or shoreline strolls, the Medicine Lake parks promise endless outdoor fun for Minnesota families.

West Medicine Lake Park

The bigger and busier of the two, West Medicine Lake Park is a full-on family destination in Plymouth. The star attraction? A massive yellow and blue playground where kids can climb, hop, crawl, and move as inspired by the brightly colored equipment.

Designed for both big kids and toddlers, it features equipment for all ages. Parents will appreciate that the playground sits within sight of the beach, so families can easily transition from playground fun to swimming without moving the car.

The beach is a local hot spot for many families. Kids and adults will enjoy quick dips—even if it’s just their toes! With soft sand and gentle waves, it’s ideal for swimmers of all ages. Bring sand toys and sunscreen to maximize the fun. Nothing says a Minnesota summer like a fun family day at the lake!

This park also offers a picnic shelter with grills, basketball and sand volleyball courts, bike racks, and two parking lots for easy access. Thanks to its connection to the Luce Line and Medicine Lake Regional Trails, families can even bike here from other nearby parks.

After a dip in the lake or a playtime adventure, families can cool off with a snack under the trees. From the beach to the playground, West Medicine Lake Park makes a perfect all-day outing.

Must Visit Playground guide

East Medicine Lake Park

If West Medicine Lake Park is the high-energy sibling, East Medicine Lake Park is the calm, cozy counterpart. It’s smaller and quieter, ideal for families seeking a relaxed lakeside vibe.

The playground here is perfectly sized for younger children. With a fun fort-style climbing structure, kids will have plenty of space to explore. There are also swings, climbing features, and other unique playground features for kids.

The seasonal swimming beach will also be a hit with your kids! A whimsical dragon on the sand greets you upon arrival. Kids will delight in swimming near this colorful creature. It’s a fun spot to take a dip and play in the sand together.

Near the beach, picnic areas with grills make it easy to spend a laid-back summer afternoon together. Parents can spread out a blanket under the trees or use one of the provided tables. Afterward, stroll the paved lakeside trail for stunning waterfront views. Not to mention, a unique stop at the 45th parallel marker. Talk about a great photo op and geography lesson in one.

Come fall, East Medicine Lake Park transforms into one of Plymouth’s best leaf-peeping spots, with fiery colors reflecting off the water.

Clifton E. French Regional Park

Families visiting Medicine Lake will find even more to love at French Regional Park. This Plymouth park offers an award-winning playground and a sunny summer beach. Both are local favorites for families across the Twin Cities.

The multi-level playground (near the Visitor Center) is a true standout. The play area features tunnels, nets, bridges, and slides suitable for all ages. Little explorers can safely play on lower levels. Meanwhile, older kids can climb higher and zoom down twisty slides. Shaded picnic tables and nearby grassy areas make it easy for parents to relax nearby. Plus, indoor restrooms are conveniently close.

Just steps away, the French Regional Park beach is the place to be in the summer. Open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the sandy shoreline and calm water make it ideal for families to cool off. Pack swimsuits, snacks, and toys for a day in the sand. Or, rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat to explore Medicine Lake together. With fishing piers, easy trails, and a stroller-friendly “Trail at Your Pace” loop, Medicine Lake truly has something for every age and adventure level.

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All 3 Medicine Lake Parks Offer

Swimmable, sandy beaches
Playground equipment for all ages
Nearby walking and biking trails
Picnic areas (East Medicine Lake Beach also has grills)
Free, on-site parking
And, much more!

Know Before You Go

Website for East and West Medicine Lake Parks
Website for Clifton E. French Regional Park
Hours: Dawn until dusk
Parking is available in a free, dedicated lot for both parks.

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

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.