One of the best state parks in Minnesota for fishing, hiking, camping, birdwatching, and scenic views is Big Stone Lake State Park. Located near Ortonville, Minnesota, the state park provides access to the 12,610-acre Big Stone Lake, which is also the headwaters of the Minnesota River.
This gem of a state park, Big Stone Lake, features three distinct areas.
Meadowbrook – the largest area is restoring prairies, woodlands, and wet-meadows
Overlook rest area – scenic views of Big Stone Lake State Park
Bonanza area – woods, rolling hills, and tallgrass prairie landscapes
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Top 10 things to do at Big Stone Lake State Park in Ortonville, MN
Near the South Dakota-Minnesota border, Big Stone Lake State Park offers lots of outdoor things to do. Be sure to check out all three distinct areas of Big Stone Lake State Park: Meadowbrook, Overlook, and Bonanza.
Go fishing on Big Stone Lake.
Check out the Minnesota River headwaters.
Boat, canoe, kayak on Big Stone Lake.
Go hiking all season or snowshoeing and x-skiing in the winter.
Set up camp with a lakeside view.
Take in scenic overlook views of Big Stone Lake.
Stargaze.
Swim at sandy beach.
Go birdwatching.
Pack a picnic lunch.
Minnesota’s best state park for perch fishing: Big Stone Lake State Park
If you’re an angler, you’ll love fishing at Big Stone Lake State Park. It’s known as Minnesota’s best destination for perch fishing. Additionally, you can fish for walleye, northern pike, and bluegill. The lake is super shallow (deepest is only 15 feet). Fish from along the 26-mile long shoreline of Big Stone Lake, or one of its fishing piers, or boat.
Where’s the source / headwaters of the Minnesota River? Big Stone Lake
The Big Stone Lake State Park is home of the Minnesota River headwaters. The third-largest river in Minnesota starts at Big Stone Lake State Park and ends 318 miles where it meets the Mississippi River. You can view the confluence of these two rivers in Minnesota at Fort Snelling State Parkin Bloomington, MN.
See my related post: Guide to Itasca State Park – home of the Mississippi River headwaters (where you can actually walk across).
Boating at Big Stone Lake State Park
Can you boat at Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota? Yes, you can boat, canoe, and kayak on the 12,610-acre Big Stone Lake. And the park features a couple of boat launches at Meadowbrook as well as the Bonanza area. The shoreline of Big Stone Lake runs 26 miles, about 1 to 1.5 miles across, and is only 15 feet at its deepest. You can rent canoes or kayaks when the state park office is open seasonally on weekends.
Easy hiking trails at Big Stone Lake State Park
You’ll find three easy hiking trails at Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota.
The one-mile Bluebird Trail loop at Meadowbrook shoots off from the Big Stone Lake State Park campgrounds. Watch for wildflowers and the bluebird boxes on this flat mowed grass trail.
Also flat with mowed grass and located at Meadowbrook, Prairie Trail, is also located at Meadowbrook. This easy two-mile loop weaves through taller-than-you prairie grasses and wildflowers.
For a walk in the woods, check out the one-way, one-mile Bonanza Area Hiking Club Trail. It’s also an easy trek with rolling hills, packed dirt, and mowed grass.
You can also snowshoe and x-ski at Minnesota’s Big Stone Lake State Park in the winter.
Camp lakeside at Big Stone Lake State Park on the Minnesota-South Dakota border
Big Stone Lake State Park features 37 campsites, with 10 electric sites, and 13 lakeside drive-in sites. You’ll find modern restrooms and showers nearby at Big Stone Lake State Park (open seasonally with vault toilets open year-round). Anglers especially love that they can conveniently fish near their campsites. Note that the Big Stone Lake State Park campgrounds is seasonal, open April 22 through October 23.
Make sure to visit the Overlook area of Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota. It’s a small rest area about 10 miles northwest of the Meadowbrook area of Big Stone Lake State Park. Here you can capture sweeping views of Big Stone Lake.
Stargaze at Big Stone Lake State Park
Although not an International Dark Sky Park like Voyageurs State Park, Big Stone Lake State Park’s rural location is perfect for stargazing.
Swim at Big Stone Lake State Park’s sandy beach
You’ll find a sandy-bottom beach for swimming at Meadowbrook area in Big Stone Lake State Park.
Birding at Big Stone Lake State Park
Big Stone Lake State Park is popular for birding. Birdwatchers typically see bluebirds, meadowlarks, sedge wrens, pheasants, wild turkeys, bobolinks, thrashers, mourning doves as well as migrating birds.
What kind of wildlife can you expect to see at Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota? Wildlife sightings include deer, thirteen-lined ground squirrels, racoons, frogs, and lots of birds.
Bring your binoculars or you can rent them at the park office when open.
Relax with a lakeside picnic lunch
You’ll find picnic tables at Big Stone Lake State Park’s Meadowbrook and Bonanza areas. While no picnic tables at the Overlook rest area, it is also a lovely picnic spot with beautiful views of the lake.
Frequently asked questions about Big Stone Lake State Park in Ortonville, Minnesota
Here is a list of the frequently asked questions about Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota.
Where is Big Stone Lake State Park located? What is the address for Big Stone Lake State Park?
The three areas of Big Stone Lake State Park are located near the Minnesota-South Dakota border in Ortonville, MN. The main area’s address is 35889 Meadowbrook State Park Road, Ortonville, MN 56278. Big Stone Lake State Park’s Overlook area is 10 miles northwest of Meadowbrook. Drive another mile north to 31167 Big Stone Lake State Park Road. You’ll then reach the Bonanza area of Big Stone Lake State Park.
When is Big Stone Lake State Park open?
Big Stone Lake State Park is open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The campground is seasonal, open April 22 through October 23
Is Big Stone Lake State Park free? How much is the admission fee at Big Stone Lake State Park?
Big Stone Lake State Park is almost free. It costs $7 per vehicle per day ($5 per motorcycle) with unlimited visits to all Minnesota state parks on the same day. I highly recommend an annual pass, which gives you entrance to all Minnesota state parks. See the Minnesota DNR website for more information. And it’s highly recommended to pay online ahead of time. Minnesota state parks are no longer accepting cash self-payment envelopes on site.
Admission to every Minnesota state park is free for all Minnesota state tribal members.
You can visit Big Stone Lake State Park on any of the four free state park days in Minnesota. See my related post for this year’s free state park days.
Does Big Stone Lake State Park have a lake, river, or waterfall?
Yes, Big Stone Lake State Park features Big Stone Lake.
How big is Big Stone Lake?
Big Stone Lake State Park is 12,610 acres.
Does Big Stone Lake State Park have a swimming beach?
Yes, Big Stone Lake State Park features a sandy swimming beach. We visited on a very hot summer day and it had a foul odor. I’m not sure it always smells like that so will need to return to verify it was an off-day for the beach.
Is Big Stone Lake State Park buggy? Mosquitos? Ticks?
I don’t recall that many bugs, mosquitos, or ticks at Big Stone Lake State Park. However, I always trust Aunt Fanny’s biodegradable and DEET-free mosquito wipes. Ticks are notorious year-round (yes, even when it’s cold) so I typically also use picaridin. Take the tick challenge – how much do you really know about ticks?
I cannot recommend Aunt Fannie’s DEET-free Mosquito Wipes highly enough. I am a mosquito magnet, but they stay away when I apply these wipes. My link does include a referral code, which means I’ll receive a small compensation – but I only recommend products and services I would use myself. And I definitely use Aunt Fannie’s – I bought a case of them and give to family and friends. And they smell good and are good for the environment – biodegradable and no harsh chemicals!
Can you fish at Big Stone Lake State Park? What kind of fish are in Big Stone Lake?
Yes! Big Stone Lake State Park is especially known as a perch fishing destination. You can also fish for walleye, northern pike, and bluegill. Fish from a boat, a pier, or the shoreline.
Can you boat at Big Stone Lake State Park? Does Big Stone Lake State Park offer a boat ramp with trailer access?
Yes. Big Stone Lake State Park offers a couple of boat and trailer launches. You’ll find two in Meadowbrook and one in the Bonanza area.
How long and how difficult are the hiking trails at Big Stone Lake State Park?
Big Stone Lake State Park is not known for its hiking. However, you can find three easy hiking trails on mowed grass or packed dirt. All hikes are one to two miles in length.
Are hiking poles needed on the trails at Big Stone Lake State Park?
No. The hiking trails at Big Stone Lake State Park are easy. So hiking poles are not needed. But I always keep them in my SUV for the unplanned hike and just-in-case adventures.
What are the best views at Big Stone Lake State Park?
Stop by the Overlook area of Big Stone Lake State Park – about 10 miles northwest of the Meadowbrook area. Here you’ll find sweeping vistas of the entire lake.
Does Big Stone Lake State Park have a visitor center? Modern restrooms?
Big Stone Lake State Park does not offer a visitor center. However, they do have a seasonal park office that’s typically open on the weekends in summer. You will find modern restrooms with flush toilets April through October. More primitive or vault toilets are available year-round..
Is Big Stone Lake State Park dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs and pets are welcome at Big Stone Lake State Park (and all Minnesota state parks) except inside buildings (with the exception of service dogs). Leashes must be six feet or less. And you must pick up after your dog – leave no trace!
Are there bears at Big Stone Lake State Park?
I’ve never heard of any bear sightings at Big Stone Lake State Park.
Can you camp at Big Stone Lake State Park?
Yes, Big Stone Lake State Park offers a campground with 37 campsites (RV, tent, van/car) with 10 electric sites and 13 next to Big Stone Lake. Big Stone Lake State Park is open April 22 through Oct. 23.
How far is Big Stone Lake State Park from the Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul (MSP) airport?
Big Stone Lake State Park is about 186 miles west and slightly north of the Minneapolis – St. Paul (MSP) International Airport.
What’s nearby Big Stone Lake State Park? Things to do near Big Stone Lake State Park?
You’ll find additional cool things to do near Big Stone Lake State Park.
Visit the Bonanza Scientific and Natural Area located within Big Stone Lake State Park. This area protects native oak savanna, prairie grasses and wildlife and also features an oak basswood forest. Top things to do include bird and wildlife watching, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Looking for wildlife in Minnesota? Then stop by the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge near Ortonville and Big Stone Lake State Park. Of special note is the six-mile Big Stone Wildlife Refuge auto tour, which features several stops for wildlife viewing.
Hartford Beach State Park in Corona, SD borders Big Stone Lake on the opposite shore from Minnesota’s state park.
When was Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota established?
Big Stone Lake State Park was established in 1961. It’s named after the lake, which is believed to have got its name from the huge red granite rocks in this area of Minnesota.
Does Big Stone Lake State Park host deer hunts? Is Big Stone Lake State Park closed during deer season?
No. Big Stone Lake State Park is not closed during deer season. For a complete list of which Minnesota state parks are closed or limited to the public during deer season, see my post: Hiker safety: MN state parks that host deer hunts.
Upper Sioux Agency State Park | Granite Falls, MN (122 miles) – Note: Minnesota returned this park’s land to the Native Americans in February 2024. It is no longer open to the public.
Whitewater State Park | Altura, MN (99 miles)
Wild River State Park | Center City, MN (58 miles)
Twin Cities-based blogger sharing memorable emptynester, solo, family and girlfriend-getaway adventures, as well as my day hiking adventures (including all 66 Minnesota state parks), latest book reviews, and updates on my quest for the best adult mac and cheese.
Also two WIPs: historical fiction and psychological thriller
32 comments
What a fantastic place Big Stone Lake State Park is. Minnesota is certainly the place to get away from it all and enjoy nature.
It was unfortunate so will have to return as it may have been an isolated incident. Otherwise, Big Stone Lake State Park is a beautiful place to explore in Minnesota.
We really are going to have to plan to visit and spend some time in Minnesota. Big Stone Lake would certainly be a spot we would want to visit. We would love the hiking and scenic views. But would pass on camping! And at the right time of year might even try swimming.
Okay, you conviced me! I would love to visit Big Stone Lake State Park and do some hikes. It is quite the drive from Southern Arizona, but I hope to visit someday. Great post – so many helpful details!
I really enjoyed this local’s guide to Big Stone Lake State Park! What a beautiful place! There really is nothing better than getting a local’s perspective when you’re planning a trip…plus you always get a more honest outlook (like the funky smelling beach lol!).
Your pictures of Big Stone Lake State Park are absolutely stunning. My favorite activites would include hiking and stargazing. If I’m ever in Minnesota this will park will definitely be on my list of places to visit.
When visit Minnesota one day I will make a point to explore Big Stone Lake State Park! What a beautiful area and your pictures are awesome.Thanks for sharing!!
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What a fantastic place Big Stone Lake State Park is. Minnesota is certainly the place to get away from it all and enjoy nature.
It most certainly is! And we didn’t see many people at Big Stone Lake State Park so it’s perfect for solitude and connecting with water and nature.
It is such a shame that the beach area was stinky, it looks like Stone Lake would be a gorgeous place to swim if it smells better!
Still it looks like an amazing area for skiing and easy walks 🙂
It was unfortunate so will have to return as it may have been an isolated incident. Otherwise, Big Stone Lake State Park is a beautiful place to explore in Minnesota.
Great post, so much helpful information. I would love to go hiking in Big stone Lake State Park
Thank you so much! Big Stone Lake State Park offers some easy hiking trails with beautiful views of the lakes, woods, and prairies.
We really are going to have to plan to visit and spend some time in Minnesota. Big Stone Lake would certainly be a spot we would want to visit. We would love the hiking and scenic views. But would pass on camping! And at the right time of year might even try swimming.
I hope you get the opportunity to explore Minnesota. Big Stone Lake State Park is a great place for outdoor recreation.
Okay, you conviced me! I would love to visit Big Stone Lake State Park and do some hikes. It is quite the drive from Southern Arizona, but I hope to visit someday. Great post – so many helpful details!
Awesome! I hope you get the opportunity to explore Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota.
I really enjoyed this local’s guide to Big Stone Lake State Park! What a beautiful place! There really is nothing better than getting a local’s perspective when you’re planning a trip…plus you always get a more honest outlook (like the funky smelling beach lol!).
Thank you! Love sharing my honest reviews of my experiences. Big Stone Lake State Park is a beautiful lake in Minnesota.
My dad used to take us fishing when we were kids – such great memories. Big Stone Lake State Park looks like one of Minnesota’s gems.
Those are great memories. Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota is perfect for fishing.
Your pictures of Big Stone Lake State Park are absolutely stunning. My favorite activites would include hiking and stargazing. If I’m ever in Minnesota this will park will definitely be on my list of places to visit.
Thank you so much! It was a gorgeous summer day when we explored Big Stone Lake State Park. I hope you get the opportunity to visit Minnesota.
What a gorgeous state park! I would love to spend a day at Big Stone Lake. It looks so peaceful here!
Thank you! Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota is gorgeous and very serene.
When visit Minnesota one day I will make a point to explore Big Stone Lake State Park! What a beautiful area and your pictures are awesome.Thanks for sharing!!
You’re welcome and my pleasure! I hope you get to visit Minnesota and explore the beautiful Big Stone Lake State Park.
Big Stone Lake State Park looks like a hikers, fishermen paradise. And a wonderful location to immerse yourself and enjoy the great outdoors.
For sure! Big Stone Lake State Park is a popular destination for those who fish and hike.
So many great ideas on things to do here. Minnesota is one of the few States I have not visited yet. Looking forward to check this park out!
Awesome! I hope you get the opportunity to explore our Minnesota state parks. Big Stone Lake is so pretty and quiet.
I would love to go on a picnic here! It’s great that there are so many unique things to do in this park for people with different interests.
Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota does offer something for everyone. And lots of pretty spots to picnic.
It looks like such a beautiful place to visit. Hope next time it’s better for you !
We loved the beauty and serenity of Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota. We will definitely return.
Big Stone Lake State Park looks like a gorgeous nature area. I’d enjoy spending time there.
We really enjoyed our time exploring Big Stone Lake State Park. Something for everyone!
We love venturing out to state parks. Big Stone Lake State Park is going on our list. The park offers so much!
I love state parks also. Big Stone Lake State Park in Minnesota is so pretty.