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Thompson County Park Your Next Adventure Destination

Katie Heruth

 Picnics, Playgrounds & Peace: Discover the Magic of Thompson County Park with Kids

Address: 360 Butler Ave E, West St Paul, MN 55118

About the Thompson County Park

Thompson County Park in West St. Paul offers just the right mix of nature, play, and family-friendly amenities for a perfect outing with your kids. Tucked among 57 acres of trees and trails, this Dakota County gem features a quiet lake, a large inclusive playground, and flat, stroller-friendly trails. This park is ideal for families needing a flexible pace and space to play.

Pro Tip: Pack snacks, bug spray, and bubbles for the kids. This little nature outing has enormous play potential!

Fun Family Things to Do at Thompson County Park

The highlight for many families is the fully fenced inclusive playground, designed for all abilities. It’s set in a beautiful area with plenty of picnic tables. You can relax nearby with snacks while your child climbs, slides, and explores. 

The smooth paths make it easy to bring a stroller, and plenty of shady spots to rest or enjoy a picnic. You’ll also find hammocking spots, a bonfire ring (check firewood rules), and restrooms—all within easy reach of the parking lot. 

For explorers of all ages, the trails around Thompson Lake are short and scenic. They are perfect for spotting ducks or throwing pebbles into the water. The lake has a fishing pier, too. Kids will love bringing a rod to see what they can catch! 

There’s also plenty of space for biking, scootering, or even pulling a wagon along the paved trails that connect to the River to River Greenway. This trail links Thompson County Park to Kaposia Park and the Mississippi River Greenway—ideal for big family adventures and bike outings in the summer.

Finally, in the winter, you can bundle up for snowshoeing or a brisk hike along groomed trails (making this a true four-season park!).

Related Article: 15+ Best Things to Do in St Paul, Minnesota

Facilities at Thompson County Park

Thompson County Park offers family-friendly facilities that make visiting with young kids easy and enjoyable. You’ll find free parking, clean restrooms, a spacious picnic shelter, and paved, stroller-friendly paths throughout the park. 

The accessible playground and nearby picnic areas are thoughtfully designed for all ages and abilities, while shaded benches and open green space give parents room to relax and kids space to roam. Whether planning a quick morning outing or a full day of outdoor fun, the well-maintained amenities at Thompson County Park help make family adventures stress-free.

Park Highlights

  • 57-acre park
  • 2+ miles of kid-friendly hiking trails
  • Connected to the River to River Greenway
  • Large picnic area overlooking the lake 
  • Fishing pier
  • Inclusive playground on-site
  • Geocaching 
  • Hiking and biking paths
  • Free parking

Know Before You Go

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. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.

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