Rice Lake State Park
Overview
Long before this landscape held a state park, it was part of a vast oak savanna known as Minnesota’s southern oak barrens. Imagine a sea of prairie grasses and wildflowers scattered with burr oak trees. Human activities have long since altered this landscape, but
efforts are underway to restore it. A walk through the park now reveals remnants of old burr oaks and restored prairie plants. In the middle of this unique habitat is Rice Lake, a headwater of the Zumbro River. In the past, American Indians harvested wild rice here.
Today, the shallow waters and marshy edges attract many waterfowl during migrations.
- Trails
- 3
- Viewpoints
- 7
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 33
Opening Hours08:00 AM – 10:00 PM SOSEmergency SOS8886466367 Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Popular/Nearby Trails
Nearby Viewpoints
Nearby Points of Interest
Amenities Available
Paved Parking LotsDesignated 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 ToiletsModern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
Drinking Water FountainsPotable water stations distributed throughout the park, tested regularly for safety to ensure clean water access for all visitors.
Picnic Areas & SheltersCovered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
Visitor / Ranger StationInformation hub staffed by rangers or volunteers offering maps, wildlife briefings, and educational programs for school groups and families.
Hiking & Nature TrailsMarked paths ranging from easy, paved walks to rugged backcountry routes, blazed with color-coded markers and difficulty ratings.
CampgroundsTent and RV sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Some include full electric hookups, reservable through Recreation.gov.
Trailer Access
Fishing Piers & AccessAccessible fishing spots and ADA-compliant piers along rivers and lakes. A valid state fishing license is required to fish.
Open · 08:00 – 22:00
- Paved Parking Lots
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
- Drinking Water Fountains
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
- Visitor / Ranger Station
- Hiking & Nature Trails
- Campgrounds
Community Photos
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