Minnesota may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have coastline. In fact, between our 10,000 lakes we have around 90,000 miles of coastline. That’s more than California, Hawaii, and Florida combined! Some of this coastline is made up of beautiful beaches that are perfect for exploring. In fact, there’s one beautiful Minnesota lake that has a beach that rivals the coast! Read on to learn about the best beach on Mille Lacs Lake.
Father Hennepin State Park is a beautiful, 320-acre park on on corner of the enormous Mille Lacs Lake.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The park is known for its aspen and birch forests, bogs, and wildlife such as birds, deer, and bears. About 4 miles of trails cross through the park.
Tony Webster/Flickr
While the forests and bogs are lovely, Mille Lacs Lake is the real treasure of Father Hennepin State Park. As the second-largest lake in Minnesota, it’s a popular spot for those who love the outdoors.
Tony Webster/Flickr
Every nice day during the summer brings a host of anglers out on the lake. Even if you’re not one for fishing, taking a boat out on Mille Lacs Lake is nothing short of inspiring.
Tony Webster/Flickr
But you don’t have to have a boat to have fun at Mille Lacs Lake. Father Hennepin State Park is home to a sandy beach that rivals the coast. Lay out a towel and soak in the sun!
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The mile-long beach is a wonderful way to take in one of Minnesota’s greatest treasures. There are plenty of sandy spots to claim for a day of swimming or a quick picnic lunch.
Mwietro/TripAdvisor
The beach is even lovely in cooler weather. Though you can’t swim, it’s absolutely beautiful surrounded by changing leaves.
Elise Kazmerzak/Google
Next time you’re in northern Minnesota, make a stop at Father Hennepin State Park. The sandy beach on Mille Lacs Lake is just as good as any on the ocean!
Kyle Fitzsimmons/Google
Father Hennepin State Park is around 100 miles north of the Twin Cities. You’ll find it at 41296 Father Hennepin Park Rd, Isle, MN 56342. For more information about visiting or staying at this park, check out the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources page.
Tony Webster/Flickr
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Mwietro/TripAdvisor
Elise Kazmerzak/Google
Kyle Fitzsimmons/Google
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