Lake Maria State Park 

About

Visitors who come to Lake Maria State Park will enjoy one of the few remaining stands of the "Big Woods," a maple, oak and basswood forest that once covered part of southern Minnesota.

The park is perfect for hikers, backpackers, horseback riders, and cross-country skiers who enjoy the challenge of the rolling terrain. Take a stroll on the boardwalk which winds through a marsh.

Backpack sites, located on remote lakes and ponds throughout the park, are one to two miles from the trailhead parking. New log camper cabins, located near lakes and ponds, provide bunk beds for six people and a table and benches for campers who want more of the creature comforts.

Lake Maria State Park is home to the Blandings turtle, easily identified by bright yellow spots on its shell. It is one of Minnesota's threatened species.
Fall is a favorite time for hikers and horseback riders in this beautiful park of maple-basswood forests. The large trail center features wildflower paintings by a local artist. 13 miles of hiking, 6 miles of horse trails, boat and canoe rental; 16 miles of cross-country ski, also ice skating rink and a winter sliding hill.