Big Bog State Recreation Area
Big Bog State Recreation Area has been called Minnesota's last true wilderness. This two-part recreation area includes a northern unit and a southern unit. The 500-square-mile peat bog, the largest in the lower 48 states, is located in the northern unit. A mile-long boardwalk, completed in 2005, enables visitors to get a first-hand look at the unique plant and animal life of this rare resource. The bog, which has long been a source of medicinal plants for the Ojibwe Indians, represented a barrier to European settlers who tried in vain to drain it. Today, many of the native plants, including yellow-eyed grass, bog rush and two kinds of sundews, are on Minnesota's endangered or threatened species list. From orchids to carnivorous plants to rare birds, visitors will see a mixture of fascinating and rare resources.
The southern unit includes a campground with 31 campsites (26 electric sites) winterized camper cabins, a sandy beach, picnic grounds, and great fishing.
Tell me more about this park's wildlife, history, geology and landscape.
Visitor Alert!Visitor Center and Fire Tower fall hours are:Sunday - Thursday 9:00am-4:30pm;
Friday - Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm. |
Park NotesBe fascinated. Check out the naturalist programs and other activities scheduled at the park. Virtual Tour:Take a virtual tour. It's a great tool to help you plan your next trip to the recreation area! Year-Round Camper CabinsFive camper cabins located in the southern unit have electricity and are heated for use year-round. These are rustic cabins with no indoor plumbing. A family-style modern shower/restroom is available year-round at the Visitor Center. Vault toilets next to the cabins are available in winter as well as summer season. A shower building is available for use in the campground on a seasonal basis. Gift cards:Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card. Don't move firewood!Burning non-local firewood can spread invasive species, and it's against Minnesota state law. Learn more. Always buy your firewood at the park, or from an approved local vendor. Find firewood vendors for Big Bog State Recreation Area. Birders:Bird Checklist |
Park Highlights | ||||||
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FishingHours
Best time to contact the park:
Daily, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Contact
P.O. Box 428
Waskish, MN 56685
tel: 218-647-8592
fax: 218-647-8730
email: bigbog.statepark@state.mn.us
Getting There
Located on Highway 72, just north of the town of Waskish.