Lac qui Parle State Park
Overview
The park was created in 1941 to offer recreation along Lac qui Parle Lake. It started as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project for flood control along the Minnesota River. The WPA workers also built three, unique stone and timber buildings that you can still find on the west side of the lake. The lake's name is a French translation of the name the Dakota people gave it, "lake that speaks." If you visit in the spring, thousands of migratory waterfowl stop at the lake, adding a chorus of honking and quacking. Visit the park to experience the migration, paddle the lake, cast a line for fish, trek the trails or visit a historic site.
- Trails
- 3
- Viewpoints
- 12
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 28
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.
- Overlook
- RV Sanitation Station
1.1 mi from park centre
Open · 08:00 – 22:00
- Paved Parking Lots
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
- Drinking Water Fountains
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
- Hiking & Nature Trails
- Campgrounds
Required Permits
VEHICLE PERMITSRequired
Permits required; purchase at park office or entrance kiosk.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- There are currently no active safety alerts or emergency warnings in effect for Lac qui Parle State Park.
- Visitors should still exercise standard outdoor precautions, such as watching for changing weather conditions along the lake, staying alert to fluctuating river levels, and protecting against ticks and wildlife while exploring the trails.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Lac Qui Parle State Park Hiking Club Trail
Hiking
Hiking
Nearby Viewpoints
Picnic Area
0.4 mi
Historic Site (WPA Map Shelter)
Monument / Memorial
0.8 mi
Group Camp
Campsite
1.0 mi
Group Camp
Campsite
1.1 mi
Historic Site (Fort Renville)
Monument / Memorial
1.1 mi
Overlook
1.1 mi
Wildlife Viewing Area
1.1 mi
Campground
1.4 mi
Picnic Area
1.6 mi
Park/Wildlife Office
Ranger Station
1.6 mi
Historic Site (Lac qui Parle Mission)
Monument / Memorial
1.7 mi
Picnic Area
1.7 mi
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Lac qui Parle State Park?
Lac qui Parle State Park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What is Lac qui Parle State Park?
The park was created in 1941 to offer recreation along Lac qui Parle Lake. It started as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project for flood control along the Minnesota River.
Where is Lac qui Parle State Park located?
Lac qui Parle State Park is located in Watson, Minnesota, United States.
How many trails are there at Lac qui Parle State Park?
Lac qui Parle State Park has 3 mapped trails covering 5.5 miles in total. The longest is Lac Qui Parle State Park Hiking Club Trail at 3 miles.
What is there to see at Lac qui Parle State Park?
Places to see at Lac qui Parle State Park include Historic Site (Fort Renville), Historic Site (Lac qui Parle Mission), Historic Site (WPA Map Shelter), Camper Cabin, Park Entrance and Trailer Access.
What facilities are available at Lac qui Parle State Park?
Facilities at Lac qui Parle State Park include Campgrounds, Drinking Water Fountains, Hiking & Nature Trails, Overlook, Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters, Restrooms / Flush Toilets, RV Sanitation Station and 1 more.
Is there parking at Lac qui Parle State Park?
Yes, Lac qui Parle State Park has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Lac qui Parle State Park?
Yes, Lac qui Parle State Park has 3 campsites marked on its map, including Group Camp.
How can I contact Lac qui Parle State Park?
You can contact Lac qui Parle State Park by phone at 8886466367.
What safety tips should visitors to Lac qui Parle State Park know?
There are currently no active safety alerts or emergency warnings in effect for Lac qui Parle State Park. Visitors should still exercise standard outdoor precautions, such as watching for changing weather conditions along the lake, staying alert to fluctuating river levels, and protecting against ticks and wildlife while exploring the trails. You can check for any sudden or seasonal updates directly through the Minnesota DNR Lac qui Parle State Park notices page 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.