Rice Lake State Park

In the area

  from Explore MN Tourism

Fall Colors

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A demonstration praire plot is located directly south of... More details

Current conditions

light rain

Owatonna: 66° F and light rain.

forecast


Ghost Towns

(Minnesota Conservation Volunteer article)


Rice Lake

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Long ago, American Indians harvested wild rice from this lake where today, the shallow waters and marshy edges of Rice Lake attract many waterfowl during migrations. Rice Lake is a major wetland in the area. Visitors enjoy camping under the tall hardwoods, photographing spring wildflowers, picnicking, and birdwatching. For a more secluded camping experience, paddle across the lake and camp in a canoe campsite. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on the trails.

Tell me more about this park's wildlife, history, geology and landscape.

Visitor Alert!

Lake Level and Boat Access (updated 08.28.10):

Please be advised that the water level is extremely low due to DNR efforts to improve aquatic habitat.

Until further notice, canoe and kayak rentals have been suspended. Please call the park office further information (see number below).

Park Notes

Gift Cards:

Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card.

Birders:

Bird Checklist at Rice Lake State Park.

Firewood restrictions information:

Minnesota has enacted legislation that restricts firewood being brought to or used on DNR lands. Complete information and lists of vendors and locations where approved firewood is available are posted on the DNR Web site.
More information
Vendor List

Park Highlights

tree Spring and Fall Migration

tree Birdwatching

tree Great Variety of Songbirds/Waterfowl

tree Wildflowers

tree Canoeing

tree Nature Observation


Hours

Office hours will vary. If no one is available, you may leave a message at (507) 455-5871.

When the office is closed, please use the self-registration station at the front of the office to purchase daily and annual permits, and to register for camping. Annual permits purchased through self-registration will be mailed to you.

Contact

8485 Rose Street
Owatonna, MN 55060

tel: 507-455-5871

Getting There

Located 7 miles east of Owatonna on Rose Street. From Hwy 35, take exit 42A. Follow the signs to Rose Street. East on Rose Street to the park.





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