The Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board operates beaches at several lakes in the Twin Cities area, ensuring free access with seasonal lifeguards during specified hours. While bathroom facilities vary, you can expect a range of amenities for a pleasant beach day.

Beaches in Minneapolis

In Minneapolis, various lakes offer scenic beaches suitable for families and individuals to enjoy a day by the water. It’s essential to check lifeguard schedules if swimming is a priority.

Beaches in St. Paul

St. Paul features one official beach located at Lake Phalen. This beach has a seasonal lifeguard, changing rooms, and bathrooms—all accessible for free. Additionally, Hidden Falls Regional Park offers a sand beach, although swimming is not recommended.

Fort Snelling State Park Beach

Fort Snelling State Park boasts a swimming beach located on the peaceful Snelling Lake. This location provides bathrooms, a visitor’s center, and seasonal lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for aquatic activities. Note that a state park parking permit is required for parking in the area.

Three Rivers Park District Beaches

The Three Rivers Park District maintains several parks in the western suburbs, featuring free, unguarded swimming beaches at seven parks. Visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery, bathroom facilities, and often concessions at locations such as Baker Park Reserve and Fish Lake Regional Park. Moreover, Three Rivers operates two swimming ponds—with lifeguards, filtered water, and man-made beaches—at Lake Minnetonka Swimming Pool and Elm Creek Swimming Pond. However, admission charges apply to these swimming ponds.

Ramsey County Beaches

Ramsey County offers several guarded and unguarded beaches. Notable locations include White Bear Lake, Lake Johanna, and Long Lake, all equipped with lifeguards. While several lakes offer lifeguard services, others such as Lake Gervais and Lake Owasso do not.

Washington County Beaches

Washington County Parks provides swimming beaches including Square Lake Park, recognized for its clarity. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy beaches at Point Douglas Park and Big Marine Park reserve, which features modern bathrooms and changing rooms. While all beaches are free, a Washington County Permit is necessary for vehicle entry, apart from Point Douglas Park.

Anoka County Beaches

Anoka County Parks offer numerous large lakes with clean beaches at Lake George Regional Park and Coon Lake County Park among others. Although access to these beaches is free, vehicle permits are required at specific parks. Additionally, Anoka County runs the expansive Bunker Beach water park, featuring a variety of slides and pools. However, there are admission charges for this popular attraction.

For further exploration of cultural landmarks, consider visiting The Cathedral of St. Paul.