Long Lake Regional Park wilderness guide
Regional Park · Minnesota

Long Lake Regional Park

Long Lake Regional Park offers a diverse outdoor experience with its expansive lake, forested areas, and a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and camping in central Minnesota.

Regional Park1,3004+ Trails

Designation

Regional Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,300

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Long Lake Regional Park

Long Lake Regional Park offers a diverse outdoor experience with its expansive lake, forested areas, and a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and camping in central Minnesota.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Long Lake Regional Park is situated in the heart of central Minnesota near the town of Long Lake, providing a peaceful natural retreat featuring a large freshwater lake surrounded by forest and wetlands. The park covers diverse terrain with a mix of hardwood forests, conifer stands, and marshy shoreline habitats that support local wildlife such as deer, waterfowl, and various fish species. Historically, the area has been used for both recreation and natural resource preservation, maintaining its role as a family-friendly outdoor destination for the surrounding communities. Visitors can explore several hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through scenic woodlands and connect to lakeshore viewpoints. The lake itself is popular for fishing, paddle sports, and swimming in warmer months, attracting anglers targeting species like northern pike, walleye, and panfish. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing, making the park a year-round destination. Long Lake Regional Park is noted for its well-maintained campgrounds that accommodate tent and RV campers alike, along with picnic areas and playgrounds. The park balances recreational use with conservation efforts, emphasizing habitat preservation and water quality protection. Its accessibility combined with natural beauty and a range of activities makes Long Lake Regional Park a favored spot for residents and visitors seeking outdoor recreation without traveling far from urban centers.

Field Guide · Regional Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Long Lake Regional Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Long Lake shoreline with sandy beaches ideal for swimming and paddling✦ Forest and wetland habitats supporting diverse bird and wildlife species✦ Multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking through scenic woodlands✦ Quiet fishing spots with opportunities for northern pike, walleye, and panfish
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Long Lake Regional Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Long Lake Regional Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Long Lake Regional Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free day-use access; camping and boat launch require permits or fees

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Long Lake Regional Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Long Lake Campground

Located near the lake's edge, offering electric and non-electric sites with modern restrooms and showers.

Forest Edge Group Campground

Group-use area situated in a quieter forested section, ideal for larger gatherings and youth groups.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Long Lake Regional Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Long Lake, Minnesota
⌖ 3.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Long Lake, Minnesota

Long Lake, Minnesota is a charming lakeside town perfect for paddling, fishing, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Enjoy calm waters, scenic trails, and nearby parks offering year-round outdoor adventure close to the Twin Cities.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Maple Plain, Minnesota
⌖ 4.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maple Plain, Minnesota

Maple Plain offers outdoor lovers quiet trails, calm lakes, and charming small-town vibes near Minneapolis. Ideal for hiking, paddling, birdwatching, and winter skiing, it’s a peaceful gateway to Minnesota’s natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Orono, Minnesota
⌖ 5.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orono, Minnesota

Orono offers a calm lakefront setting with trails, paddling, fishing, and winter skiing. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful nature moments on Lake Minnetonka and its surrounding parks.

Late Spring through Early Fall for water activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Plymouth, Minnesota
⌖ 5.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plymouth, Minnesota

Plymouth, Minnesota offers outdoor lovers a peaceful suburban escape with lakes for paddling and fishing, miles of trails for hiking and biking, and winter sports options. Its parks and waterways provide easy access to nature year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Independence, Minnesota
⌖ 5.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Independence, Minnesota

Independence, Minnesota, is a quiet lakeside town ideal for paddling, fishing, and hiking amid peaceful natural settings. With easy access to Lake Independence and nearby parks, it’s a low-key base for outdoor lovers seeking calm waters and forest trails.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Wayzata, Minnesota
⌖ 6.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wayzata, Minnesota

Wayzata is a charming lake town on Lake Minnetonka offering paddling, biking, hiking, and fishing opportunities. Its accessible trails and calm waters make it great for outdoor activities from spring through fall, with winter sports nearby.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Long Lake Regional Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Five Day Rentals: Five Days of Lakes, Delivered
ADVEXPEDITION
City of the Lake Region, State
KayakADV Bookable

Five Day Rentals: Five Days of Lakes, Delivered

Five Day Rentals supplies five-day equipment rentals for paddle boarding, kayaking, or floating on a lily pad; this guide explains booking, delivery, and what to expect on the water.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip