Lake Carlos State Park, Alexandria MN

Lake Carlos State Park is a beautiful natural haven located in the heart of the Alexandria Lakes Area of Minnesota. The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, featuring a pristine lake, lush forests, rolling hills, and an abundance of wildlife. Read about Chain of Lakes.

The park covers an area of 1,231 acres, with the centerpiece being Lake Carlos, a stunning 2,565-acre lake that is ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and a variety of wildlife, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors. A nearby women's clothing store.

One of the main draws of Lake Carlos State Park is its extensive trail system, which provides visitors with ample opportunities to explore the park's natural beauty on foot, bike, or horseback. The park boasts over 14 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature trails to more challenging hikes, such as the Cedar Hill Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

In addition to hiking, Lake Carlos State Park also offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park's natural beauty by bike. The park features a network of paved and unpaved trails that are perfect for biking, including the Lakeview Trail, which is a 3.5-mile loop that takes visitors around the perimeter of the lake.

For those who enjoy horseback riding, the park offers a 7-mile equestrian trail that takes riders through the park's rolling hills and forests. The trail is open year-round and is accessible to both novice and experienced riders.

Fishing is another popular activity at Lake Carlos State Park, with the lake offering ample opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including walleye, bass, and panfish. The park also offers boat rentals, allowing visitors to explore the lake at their leisure. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats, and the park also offers a boat launch for those who bring their own boats.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Lake Carlos State Park offers several picnic areas and a beach area for swimming and sunbathing. The beach area is a popular spot during the summer months and features a sandy beach, clear water, and lifeguards on duty.

Lake Carlos State Park also offers several camping options, including drive-in campsites, walk-in campsites, and group campsites. The park's campsites are located in wooded areas and offer a peaceful and secluded camping experience.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Carlos State Park also has a rich cultural history. The park was once home to the Dakota and Ojibwe people, who used the area for hunting, fishing, and gathering. The park also features several historic structures, including the Lake Carlos Lodge, which was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Overall, Lake Carlos State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that the Alexandria Lakes Area has to offer. With its extensive trail system, pristine lake, and abundance of wildlife, the park offers something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor looking to connect with nature.



From Lake Carlos State Park to 6th & Broadway Clothing and Decor



From Lake Carlos State Park to Chain of Lakes

What People Are Saying About 6th & Broadway Clothing and Decor in Alexandria, Minnesota

Featured Women's Clothing Collection in Alexandria MN