Lake Maria State Park is an inviting destination for travelers from the Twin Cities any time of year. It’s also a bit of a rarity. Lake Maria State Park is one of the few places where visitors may see what’s left of south-central Minnesota’s Big Woods. 

Not surprisingly, Lake Maria State Park is among the best birding hot spots near the Twin Cities. Well over 200 bird species have been spotted at the state park, among them nesting eagles and ospreys. Lake Maria is home to a variety of other wildlife, such as the threatened Blandings turtle.

Among Lake Maria State Park’s recreational highlights are 14 miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails, horseback riding, ice skating, snowshoeing, canoeing and camping. Naturalist programs are offered year-round

Lake Maria State Park Dates of Operation
Lake Maria State Park is open year-round.

Lake Maria State Park Entrance Fees
Daily permit $5
Daily group permit* $3
Annual vehicle permit $25
Second vehicle permit $18
Motorcycle permit $20
Handicapped  permit** $12
Annual horse pass $21

*Requires a minimum of 10 vehicles and advance notice of 24 hours.
**For vehicles bearing a handicapped license plate issued by the State of Minnesota.

Lake Maria State Park Camping Fees
Backpack sites $11/night
Camper cabins (up to 6 people) $40/night
Group campsites The greater of:
$45-$75/night or a $3 nightly charge for each camper

A nonrefundable fee of $8.50 will be added to reservations for camper cabins and group campsites. Camper cabins do not have electricity or showers; none are handicapped-accessible.

(Fees and hours subject to change without notice and from what is listed on this web site)

Lake Maria State Park Location
Lake Maria State Park is located northwest of the Twin Cities.

Lake Maria State Park Contact Information
11411 Clementa Ave. Northwest
Monticello, MN 55362
(763) 878-2325
www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake_maria/index.html

Reservations are available over the phone from 8 am till 8 pm daily or online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
(866) 85PARKS / (866) 857-2757
www.stayatmnparks.com

Click here for a complete list of area Bloomington attractions and events.

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