LAKE CARLOS State park

Built by receding glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park offers a myriad of natural wonders, including a clear and deep lake just perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. Among its 1,231 acres, nearly one-third of Minnesota’s 80 mammals and more than 150 species of birds find a home either seasonally or all year long. It’s the perfect place to view loons, grebes, ducks and heron, making this a birdwatcher’s paradise. You may even catch a glimpse of the beaver and deer that make their homes within the park.

The park also features a year-round naturalist that leads several programs throughout the year.

Winter or summer, Lake Carlos State Park is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing and interpretive programs are just waiting for you.

Paddle boats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent during the regular season. In the winter, snowshoes are available for rent at the park office. A thermal flip-over style portable fish house is available to rent on Lake Carlos only. Contact the park office for current rates and availability.

The park entrance, 2601 County Rd. 38 NE in Carlos, is located 10 miles north of Alexandria on State Highway 29, then two miles west on Highway 38. The best time to contact the park is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at 320-852-7200.

You can also email the park at lakecarlos.statepark@state.mn.us

You can discover much more about Lake Carlos State Park by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ lake_carlos/.