Myre-Big Island State Park
Overview
Myre-Big Island State Park is an oasis of natural diversity. The park was created in 1947 to protect unique geologic features, plant life and human history. What began with 116 acres on Big Island now encompasses over 1,700 acres of rolling hills, ponds and marshes along the shores of Albert Lea Lake. The oak savanna landscape is surrounded by agricultural land. The area has been used by humans for over 9,000 years. Visit today and discover birding, hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing, camping and much more.
- Trails
- 9
- Viewpoints
- 7
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 23
Opening Hours
08:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Emergency SOS
Amenities Available
- Paved Parking Lots
Designated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
Modern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
- Drinking Water Fountains
Potable water stations distributed throughout the park, tested regularly for safety to ensure clean water access for all visitors.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
Covered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
- Visitor / Ranger Station
Information hub staffed by rangers or volunteers offering maps, wildlife briefings, and educational programs for school groups and families.
- Hiking & Nature Trails
Marked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
- Campgrounds
Tent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
- Fishing Piers & Access
Accessible fishing spots and ADA-compliant piers along rivers and lakes. A valid state fishing license is required to fish.
- Trailer Access
- RV Sanitation Station
- Backpack Camping
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permits required; purchase at ranger station or entrance kiosk.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- Current safety conditions at Myre-Big Island State Park require visitors to watch for muddy or uneven trails after rainfall, heavy seasonal mosquito and tick activity near the wetlands, and wildlife like raccoons that may approach campsites for food.
- Always store your food securely, wear insect repellent, and check the Minnesota DNR Park Page for any active weather closures or fire restrictions before you arrive.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking (Oak Hill/Sunset/Monarch/Great Marsh Trail)
Hiking/Biking (Prairie View Trail)
Hiking (Plum/Big Island/Bur Oak Trail)
Hiking/Biking(Bobolink/White Fox Trail)
Hiking/Biking (Pelican Trail)
Hiking (Esker/Crossing Trail)
Paved (Ridge/Basswood Trail)
Blazing Star State Trail
Paved
Nearby Viewpoints
Picnic Area
0.2 mi
Campground
0.9 mi
Picnic Area
1.2 mi
Picnic Area
1.4 mi
Primitive Group Camp
Camping
1.4 mi
Campground
1.6 mi
Picnic Area
1.6 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Myre-Big Island State Park?
Myre-Big Island State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Myre-Big Island State Park?
Myre-Big Island State Park is an oasis of natural diversity. The park was created in 1947 to protect unique geologic features, plant life and human history.
Where is Myre-Big Island State Park located?
Myre-Big Island State Park is located in Albert Lea, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Myre-Big Island State Park?
Myre-Big Island State Park has 9 mapped trails covering 20.6 miles in total. The longest is Blazing Star State Trail at 7 miles.
What is there to see at Myre-Big Island State Park?
Places to see at Myre-Big Island State Park include Fishing Pier and Trailer Access.
What facilities are available at Myre-Big Island State Park?
Facilities at Myre-Big Island State Park include Backpack Camping, Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Fishing Piers & Access, Hiking & Nature Trails, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and 3 more.
Is there parking at Myre-Big Island State Park?
Yes, Myre-Big Island State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Myre-Big Island State Park?
Yes, Myre-Big Island State Park has 7 campsites marked on its map, including Primitive Group Camp.
How can I contact Myre-Big Island State Park?
You can contact Myre-Big Island State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Myre-Big Island State Park know?
Current safety conditions at Myre-Big Island State Park require visitors to watch for muddy or uneven trails after rainfall, heavy seasonal mosquito and tick activity near the wetlands, and wildlife like raccoons that may approach campsites for food. Always store your food securely, wear insect repellent, and check the Minnesota DNR Park Page for any active weather closures or fire restrictions before you arrive.
Download The App & Explore Anywhere
Explore interactive maps, discover trails and points of interest, and navigate confidently with the OuterMap mobile app — with detailed information and offline access wherever you go.