Glacial Lakes State Park
Overview
Glacial Lakes State Park was established in 1963 to preserve the area’s rolling prairies, high-quality habitat, and rich plant life. The park also protects special glacial landforms such as kames (cone-shaped hills), kettles (water-filled depressions), and glacial erratics (large boulders left by the glaciers). Glaciers also left behind glacial till (dirt and gravel) that formed the area’s hills and steep rolling terrain. Wildflowers and prairie grasses blanket the landscape from spring through fall. Visit the park and explore all the grasslands have to offer.
- Trails
- 9
- Viewpoints
- 2
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 20
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.
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permits required; purchase at ranger station or online at mndnr.gov/permit
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- When visiting Glacial Lakes State Park, your primary safety concerns are weather exposure and wildlife pests.
- Because the park's trails cross open, unshaded prairies, always bring plenty of water and sun protection to avoid heat exhaustion.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking/Horse
Hiking
Hiking/Horse
Hiking
Hiking/Horse
Hiking/Horse
Paved
Nearby Viewpoints
Overlook (Highest elevation)
Viewing Area
0.5 mi
Overlook (Signalness Lake)
Viewing Area
0.7 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Glacial Lakes State Park?
Glacial Lakes State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Glacial Lakes State Park?
Glacial Lakes State Park was established in 1963 to preserve the area’s rolling prairies, high-quality habitat, and rich plant life.
Where is Glacial Lakes State Park located?
Glacial Lakes State Park is located in Starbuck, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Glacial Lakes State Park?
Glacial Lakes State Park has 9 mapped trails covering 11 miles in total. The longest is Hiking/Horse at 3.6 miles.
What is there to see at Glacial Lakes State Park?
Places to see at Glacial Lakes State Park include Overlook (Highest elevation), Overlook (Signalness Lake), Council Ring and Equestrian Campground.
What facilities are available at Glacial Lakes State Park?
Facilities at Glacial Lakes State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Hiking & Nature Trails, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets and Visitor / Ranger Station.
Is there parking at Glacial Lakes State Park?
Yes, Glacial Lakes State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Glacial Lakes State Park?
Yes, Glacial Lakes State Park has 7 campsites marked on its map, including Backpack Campsite, Campground (Lower), Campground (Oakridge), Primitive Group Camp and RV Sanitation Station.
How can I contact Glacial Lakes State Park?
You can contact Glacial Lakes State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Glacial Lakes State Park know?
When visiting Glacial Lakes State Park, your primary safety concerns are weather exposure and wildlife pests. Because the park's trails cross open, unshaded prairies, always bring plenty of water and sun protection to avoid heat exhaustion. Additionally, ticks are highly prevalent in the tall grass; wear long pants, apply insect repellent, and perform thorough tick checks after hiking. Finally, cell service can be spotty in low-lying kettle valleys
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