Known as the Land of 10,000 lakes, our great state of Minnesota makes foreigners think of long, freezing winters—but we know better! Even though our winters are long and harsh, that doesn’t keep us from the Minnesota outdoors. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are fun outdoor activities for everyone, no matter what season it is.
So strap on your snow boots, water shoes, or trail sneakers, and get ready to explore some beautiful nature.
Camping
If you’re looking for some good old traditional camping, you’re in the right place. In fact, Minnesota is one of the best states for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you like a comfortable setting with the facilities close by, or prefer a more rugged and rustic experience, the Minnesota outdoors has great camping spots for everyone.
Best Camping in Minnesota
Places for Tent Camping in Minnesota
State Park Camping In Minnesota
Sports
Maybe, though, you need something a little more hardcore than just hanging out around a campfire. If you’re hoping to spend time outdoors with some great sports, Minnesota has great options for you, too. And it’s not all just winter sports!
Lakes
Remember the 10,000 lakes detail? We weren’t kidding! For the lowdown on how best to experience lake life in Minnesota, check out our Lake Life page. From living on a lake to a great lake beach day to lake camping, we’ve got comprehensive guides on it all!
Fishing
Minnesota isn’t called the Land of the 10,000 lakes for nothing! With so many bodies of water, of course fishing is a favorite passion for locals. Learn all about fishing in the Minnesota outdoors both during the summer and winter.
Fishing Spots
Great Fishing Spots in Minneapolis
Boundary Waters Fishing Guide
Spots for Shore Fishing in Minnesota
Lakes
Ice Fishing
Complete Guide To Ice Fishing in Minnesota
Minnesota Ice Fishing Guide
Ice Fishing Spots
Beaches, Rivers, and Waterfalls
You don’t need an ocean for great beaches. In fact, 100% of Minnesota beaches are on the shores of a lake, river, and even waterfalls. Who’s complaining? Not me!
Views
Perhaps you’re not super hardcore, and you just want a beautiful view to relax for a little bit. The Minnesota outdoors has great options for you, too. Use these guides to discover the spots with the best views in the entire state.
Best Views in Minnesota
Best Places To See Fall Colors In Minnesota
Parks, Forests, and Recreational Area Guides
We love our Minnesota nature—can you tell by the dozens of specialized guides we’ve published? If you’re not sure which park to hit, start with our general guide, the Best National Parks in Minnesota. But if you’re already sure of your destination, then find it in this list below, and learn everything there is to know about that state park, national park, of recreational area!
Afton State Park
Bear Head Lake State Park
Beaver Creek Valley State Park
Best State Parks in Minnesota
Big Stone Lake State Park
Blue Mounds State Park
Camden State Park
Carley State Park
Cascade River State Park
Crow Wing State Park
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
Father Hennepin State Park
Flandrau State Park
Fort Ridgely State Park
Fort Snelling State Park
Franz Jevne State Park
Frontenac State Park
George H. Crosby Manitou State Park
Glacial Lakes State Park
Glendalough State Park
Gooseberry Falls State Park
Grand Portage State Park
Great River Bluffs State Park
Guide to Banning State Park Hayes Lake State Park
Interstate State Park
Itasca State Park
Jay Cooke State Park
Kilen Woods State Park
Lac qui Parle State Park
Lake Bemidji State Park
Lake Bronson State Park
Lake Carlos State Park
Lake Maria State Park
Maplewood State Park
McCarthy Beach State Park
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Minneopa State Park
Monson Lake State Park
Moose Lake State Park
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park
Old Mill State Park
Rice Lake State Park
River State Park
Sakatah Lake State Park
Savanna Portage State Park
Scenic State Park
Sibley State Park
Split Rock Creek State Park
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
Superior National Forest
Temperance River State Park
Upper Sioux Agency State Park
Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
Voyageurs National Park
Whitewater State Park
Wild River State Park
William O’Brien State Park
Zippel Bay State Park
Wildlife
With so much nature, you can bet that the Minnesota outdoors has tons of beautiful wildlife. Learn about some of them here!
Animals of Minnesota
Birds of Minnesota Birds
Winter Birds in Minnesota
Visit the Great Minnesota Outdoors!
I hope this post has inspired you to make the most of the amazing outdoor activities available in our great state, every month of the year. Check this page often, because we’re always updating out content!
In the meantime, take a look at other great facets of Minnesota life!
