When warm weather hits, Minnesotans know how to enjoy it. Our more than 10,000 lakes - many of which have beaches - give us plenty of opportunities to spend our days in the sun. But not all lakes come with an amazing park filled with recreational activities. Those that do stand out above the rest, and Long Lake in New Brighton is among the best. With its paved paths through beautiful nature areas, fun playgrounds, and an excellent beach, Long Lake Regional Park might be one of the top lakes for outdoor recreation in Minnesota. Read on below to learn more about it:
Long Lake Regional Park is a 217-acre park in New Brighton, Minnesota. Its location in the northern Twin Cities metro makes it a great place to go for most who live in the area.
There is plenty to see and do at the park. Beautiful nature surrounds the area, including shady trees, marshes filled with cattails, and grassy fields. In addition to Long Lake, the smaller, non-recreational Rush Lake is also on the grounds.
Paved paths throughout the park let visitors catch a glimpse of the surroundings while spending some time in the sun. Many bikers, rollerbladers, and walkers visit for the well-maintained paths and the great views.
Younger visitors will enjoy the play areas in the park. Playgrounds include slides, climbing areas, and more. There are also fields for baseball or softball, as well as a volleyball court.
Other amenities include a boat launch, indoor restrooms with showers and changing rooms, a concession stand, and a sheltered pavilion. The pavilion can hold many guests and even includes a kitchen. It would be a great site for a family reunion or other gathering!
Of course, come summertime one of the biggest draws of the park is Long Lake itself. Along its shore, there is a wide grassy area dotted with trees and picnic tables. Bring a blanket, cooler, and snacks, and spend the day here!
Beyond the grass, a sandy beach brings even more fun. Kids will enjoy playing in the sand, and people of all ages will love taking a cooling dip into Long Lake!
Next time you're looking for a beachy getaway without going too far from home, a trip to Long Lake Regional Park may be in order. This park is full of amenities that just about anyone will enjoy!
Have you ever been to Long Lake Regional Park? What are your other favorite beach parks in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments! And if you're looking for more places to swim, check out our past list of hidden beaches in Minnesota.
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