Square Lake County Park
1 / 4

Square Lake County Park

4.6
·654 reviews·Stillwater, United States

Discover pristine, crystal-clear waters and a spacious, sandy beach at Square Lake County Park, a serene natural escape near the Twin Cities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Square Lake County Park

Square Lake County Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover pristine, crystal-clear waters and a spacious, sandy beach at Square Lake County Park, a serene natural escape near the Twin Cities.

4.6
(654 reviews)

"This hidden gem is my new favorite. I can't wait to return!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Permit Required

A $7 per car parking permit is needed. Arrive early on busy days to guarantee a spot. :car:

🛟 Lifeguards on Duty

Enjoy peace of mind with lifeguards present during operating hours, though they do take safety breaks. :lifeguard:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Beach and Crystal Clear Water

Pristine Beach and Crystal Clear Water

Main Beach Area

Discover one of the most beautiful beaches in the Twin Cities with incredibly clear, mineral-rich water. Perfect for swimming and enjoying the sunshine.

Reddit
Abundant Wildlife in the Lake

Abundant Wildlife in the Lake

Lake waters

Swim alongside fish, snails, and mollusks in the clean, vibrant waters of Square Lake. A truly immersive natural experience.

Reddit
Spacious Restrooms and Picnic Areas

Spacious Restrooms and Picnic Areas

Near the beach

Enjoy convenient amenities including spacious restrooms with changing areas and numerous picnic tables, some movable to shady spots.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Crystal Clear Waters

Square Lake County Park is a popular spot, especially on hot summer days. Arrive early to secure parking and a good spot on the expansive beach. Consider weekdays or early mornings to enjoy the pristine water with fewer people. Reddit

Parking and Access Tips

A $7 per car parking permit is required. While the main beach is easily accessible, getting down to the sand with strollers or wagons can be a bit tricky. Plan accordingly for your gear. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful light, lifeguards still on duty
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

DOES ANYONE KNOW a clean lake right now with no bacteria by Minneapolis / suburbs

🚗 Parking Permit Required

A $7 per car parking permit is needed. Arrive early on busy days to guarantee a spot. Reddit :car:

🛟 Lifeguards on Duty

Enjoy peace of mind with lifeguards present during operating hours, though they do take safety breaks. Reddit :lifeguard:

reddit.com

Best low-key beaches / swimming area for this hot weekend?

reddit.com

Cleanest beach?

🏖️ Beach Access with Gear

Getting to the beach with strollers or wagons can be a bit tricky. Plan your route and gear accordingly. Reddit :baby_carrier:

🛶 Water Activities Galore

Bring paddleboards, boats, or kayaks to explore the expansive lake beyond the beach. Reddit :kayak:

reddit.com

Dog safe (Algae) lakes north of the cities?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Permit Required

A $7 per car parking permit is needed. Arrive early on busy days to guarantee a spot. Reddit :car:

🛟 Lifeguards on Duty

Enjoy peace of mind with lifeguards present during operating hours, though they do take safety breaks. Reddit :lifeguard:

🏖️ Beach Access with Gear

Getting to the beach with strollers or wagons can be a bit tricky. Plan your route and gear accordingly. Reddit :baby_carrier:

🛶 Water Activities Galore

Bring paddleboards, boats, or kayaks to explore the expansive lake beyond the beach. Reddit :kayak:

☀️ Moveable Picnic Tables

Take advantage of picnic tables that can be repositioned to find your perfect shady spot. Reddit :picnic_table:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(654 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Square Lake County Park's exceptionally clean and clear water, often calling it the most beautiful beach in the Twin Cities. The spacious beach, abundant amenities like picnic tables and grills, and the presence of lifeguards are frequently praised. Some find the park can get crowded, and accessing the beach with gear can be a minor challenge.

"This is one of the best discoveries of our summer. It’s about an hour’s drive from home for us, driving is easy down the interstate. Once there, you pay $7 for a car parking permit. Take your stuff and head out to the beach. There are lifeguards at the beach, they do take safety brakes, kinda like at community swimming pool. The beach is clean, the water is clean and full of life: fish, snails and mollusks. There are spacious restrooms with changing are, no real showers, but you can wash sand and water outside at the fountain. There are many benches with picnic tables at the beach, those table can be moved as the day goes by to a shady area. Lots of people bring food to grill there, there are multiple outdoor coal grills available at this beach. Some folks come with paddle boards, boats and kayaks and enjoy this lake by paddling. We just came to swim. This lake is large enough for everyone and truly the best $7 spent for a day worth of sunshine, wind and water."

Marta Duffer

"I just discovered Square Lake today and think it has the most beautiful beach in the Twin Cities. It's in such a serene setting and although the lake is on the smaller side, the beach is easily one of the largest around. It's apparent the area is rich in minerals and natural resources are a priority; the water is crystal clear and the sand is smooth and soft. There were even lifeguards on duty which is quite rare for lakes these days, especially at 8pm. This hidden gem is my new favorite. I can't wait to return!"

Rachael Ryhn

"Nice clean and clear lake. This is by far my favorite spot to go. You can swim at the public beach or u can pay and go to the little campground area to go swim, I like paying and going to the campground beach less people there. Highly recommend checking the lake out, you will not be disappointed."

Angie

What People Like

Crystal clear water
Spacious clean beach
Good amenities

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Beach access tricky

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Square Lake County Park is approximately an hour's drive from Minneapolis, typically via the interstate, making it an accessible day trip destination. Reddit

The park is generally reached by driving down the interstate from Minneapolis. Specific routes can be found using GPS navigation. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited for reaching Square Lake County Park due to its suburban location. Driving is the most common and recommended method. Reddit

While specific routes may vary, driving down the interstate from Minneapolis generally involves standard road usage without significant toll roads. It's always best to check your specific route. Reddit

Using a GPS navigation app on your smartphone is the most reliable way to find the park entrance and navigate to the parking areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a $7 per car parking permit required for entry into Square Lake County Park. Reddit

Advance ticket booking is not typically required for Square Lake County Park. Parking permits are usually purchased upon arrival. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official park website or local listings for the most current hours, especially for lifeguard services. Reddit

Yes, you can pay to access a campground beach area which often has fewer people than the public beach. Reddit

Refund policies for parking permits are generally not offered once purchased. It's recommended to be sure of your visit before paying. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can swim at the public beach, enjoy the clear water, sunbathe, have picnics, grill food, and paddleboard, kayak, or boat on the lake. Reddit

Yes, Square Lake is known for its clean and clear water, often praised for its quality and lack of bacteria. Reddit

Lifeguards are typically on duty at the main beach during operating hours, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers. Reddit

The beach area offers spacious restrooms with changing areas, outdoor fountains for rinsing off sand, and numerous picnic tables. Reddit

While there are outdoor coal grills available, bringing your own portable grill might be restricted. It's best to use the provided facilities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no on-site restaurants or cafes within Square Lake County Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, and there are plenty of picnic tables and grills available for use. Reddit

Yes, the park features many picnic tables, some of which can be moved to shadier spots, making it ideal for a day of outdoor dining. Reddit

The park provides multiple outdoor coal grills for visitors to use, perfect for a barbecue lunch or dinner. Reddit

Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's advisable to check the official park rules or signage upon arrival to confirm if alcohol is permitted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The expansive beach with its clear water, the serene natural setting, and the wildlife in the lake offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, the park's clear waters teeming with aquatic life and its tranquil environment make it an excellent location for nature photography. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in county parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's crucial to check the park's specific drone policy before flying. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the lake and beach without harsh shadows. Reddit

The main beach itself, with its smooth sand and clear water, is a standout feature. The surrounding natural landscape also provides beautiful backdrops. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Square Lake County Park is a fantastic destination for families. The beach is clean and the water is clear, making it safe and enjoyable for children to swim and play. Lifeguards are on duty, providing an extra layer of security for parents. Reddit

While getting down to the beach with strollers or wagons can be a bit challenging, the spacious restrooms with changing areas are a welcome convenience. The availability of picnic tables and grills means you can easily pack a family-friendly meal and spend the entire day enjoying the park's natural beauty. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For a budget-friendly day out, Square Lake County Park is an excellent choice. The primary cost is the $7 per car parking permit, which grants access to a day of swimming, picnicking, and enjoying a beautiful natural setting. Reddit

Bringing your own food and drinks is highly encouraged, saving money on dining out. The park's amenities, like grills and picnic tables, further support a cost-effective visit. Opting for a weekday visit can also mean a more relaxed experience without additional costs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Square Lake's Water Quality

Square Lake County Park is renowned for its exceptionally clean and clear water, a rarity that draws visitors from across the region. This pristine quality is attributed to the lake's mineral-rich composition and the park's commitment to preserving its natural resources. Swimmers often report seeing fish, snails, and mollusks while enjoying a refreshing dip, adding an element of natural discovery to the experience. Reddit

The clarity of the water makes it a top choice for those seeking a pure swimming experience, distinguishing it from other lakes in the Twin Cities area. The smooth, soft sand of the beach further enhances the appeal, creating a serene environment that feels miles away from urban hustle. Reddit

This focus on water quality and natural beauty makes Square Lake a highly recommended destination for anyone prioritizing a clean and invigorating aquatic adventure. Reddit

Maximizing Your Beach Day Experience

The beach at Square Lake County Park is one of its most celebrated features, boasting ample space and soft sand. Visitors can take advantage of numerous picnic tables, with the unique ability to move them to find the perfect shady spot as the day progresses. This flexibility ensures comfort even on the hottest days. Reddit

For those planning a longer stay, the park offers outdoor coal grills, making it an ideal location for a barbecue. Many visitors also bring paddleboards, boats, and kayaks to explore the lake's expanse, turning a simple beach day into a full aquatic adventure. Reddit

While the beach is spacious, it can get crowded, especially during peak summer weekends. Arriving early is key to securing a prime spot and enjoying the amenities without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

You may also like