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Picnic spots with parking

Packing up for a picnic is a chore, so the last thing needed is a long walk from the car. A nearby spot makes getting to the grass much faster.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Golden Lake Park image 1
Golden Lake Park image 2
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Park offers calm, peaceful atmosphere with great lake views and extensive playground equipment for kids. Facilities include covered pavilions, a beach, fishing dock, and access to bike trails, making it suitable for family gatherings and outdoor activities.

Ample parking spaces surround the area, making access easy and convenient. The lot is free and safe, with a beach just steps away from the parking area.

Two covered areas offer many picnic tables with ample space for groups. A small beach and playground sit nearby, along with restrooms and access to a fishing dock and canoe launch.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, clean, and well-maintained park."

"It's a fun place with lots of great equipment for kids."

"I loved the picnic tables and beach for safe swimming with kids."

Good to know

1

The park has ample parking available for visitors.

2

Restrooms are clean and conveniently located throughout the park.

3

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

02
Wabun Picnic Area image 1
Picnic ground

Large park offers spacious picnic areas with multiple large pavilions and ample parking. Playground features accessible play zones and a splash pad popular with children. Lush greenery and big trees provide a quiet, relaxing atmosphere suitable for family gatherings.

Free parking is available with ample spots even on busy days. Parking near the picnic area is convenient, and spots further away remain manageable.

Lots of shaded picnic tables and picnic shelters offer space for groups. The area includes a playground, clean restrooms, and free parking, all set in a well-maintained, beautiful park.

People are saying

"This picnic spot has a beautiful park with a great playground."

"You'll find plenty of parking available here."

"The bathrooms here are clean and convenient."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at Wabun Picnic Area.

2

The pavilion can be reserved for group gatherings.

3

There are plenty of shaded picnic tables and restrooms.

03
Shoreview Commons Park image 1

Spacious park with state-of-the-art playgrounds featuring rubber artificial turf and a wide variety of swings, slides, and climbing structures. Lively and busy atmosphere with areas for all ages including a skate park and nature walk around a pond. Multiple levels and well-designed layout create an engaging outdoor space.

Plenty of free parking is available on the street close by. Lots of parking spaces make it easy to find a spot, with room for parents to relax and watch their kids.

Huge picnic areas include a pavilion with a charcoal grill. The pavilion offers shelter during light rain, making it a solid spot for picnics.

People are saying

"This park is super fun for kids of all ages."

"The parking here is plentiful and free."

"This picnic spot has a huge, modern playground with lots of climbing structures."

Good to know

1

The playground is free to use.

2

The playground has rubber flooring for safety.

3

Restroom facilities are limited and may be unclean.

04
Harmon Park image 1

Park offers splash pad and playground side by side, creating a lively spot for children of all ages. Lighted ball fields and picnic areas with charcoal grills add to the active, family-friendly atmosphere. Clean, spacious grounds with shaded seating invite relaxation while kids play.

Plenty of parking exists with a large lot. Parking is easy and lots available.

Charcoal grilling pits and picnic tables sit under a pergola providing shade. A covered patio with picnic benches near the concession booth adds more seating options.

People are saying

"The splash pad and playground are great for kids."

"The picnic area has a great playground and splash pad for kids."

"There was plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

The splash pad stays open until 8:00 pm during summer.

2

The bathrooms are open, clean, and stocked.

3

There is plenty of parking available at Harmon Park.

05
Cleary Lake Regional Park image 1

Large lake anchors a park with canoe and paddle boat rentals, a 9-hole golf course, and swimming beach. Tall trees and picnic areas create a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of walking trails. Amenities support diverse activities like fishing, volleyball, and dog walking.

Plenty of parking sits next to the golf course and near the pavilion. The lot offers easy access to the beach, grills, and boat rentals without noise from the pavilion.

Plenty of picnic tables and a larger-than-average park grill make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. Many spots offer views of the lake, adding to the beautiful picnic areas.

People are saying

"You can walk, bike, swim, and fish at these parks."

"There are plenty of picnic tables with nice shade."

"I found plenty of room to park."

Good to know

1

The park has a large lake suitable for boating and fishing.

2

You can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards at the park.

3

The children's playground features a variety of play equipment.

06
Island Lake County Park image 1

Country park centers on a small lake with big beautiful pavilions and ample picnic tables. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports courts, suitable for families and large gatherings. The space feels quiet and spacious except for busy summer weekends.

Ample parking surrounds the park, making it easy to find a spot during events. Large lots accommodate many vehicles without hassle.

Big pavilions with many picnic tables provide ample space for gatherings. Several rental shelters offer spots for barbecues and quiet picnics near light fishing areas.

People are saying

"It's a great place for family events and carnivals at the parks."

"It's a really nice park for kids to play."

"Parking is ample here, there's a lot of it."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample for visitors attending events.

2

The park features large pavilions that can accommodate up to 200 people.

3

The park is dog-friendly, making it great for pet owners.

07
Blackhawk Park image 1

Park offers lush vegetation and well-maintained trails with several offshoots for exploration. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, with birds singing and a shady walkway for hot days. Facilities include a large playground, volleyball area, pavilion with kitchen, and fishing piers, making it suitable for families and outdoor activities.

Plenty of parking spaces surround the area. The parking situation stays easy and accessible throughout visits.

Covered picnic areas and a picnic shelter provide good spots to sit. Plenty of picnic tables are available, though some have bird droppings on them.

People are saying

"The picnic area here is nice and clean with plenty of tables."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a playground for burning off energy."

"I saw there were plenty of parking spaces available."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available for visitors.

2

The park has public bathrooms that are well maintained.

3

The picnic area has several clean tables for family gatherings.

08
Ojibway Park image 1
City park

Large city park offers multiple playgrounds, sports courts, and a skatepark with various climbing structures and slides. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and clean, with plenty of walking and biking trails weaving through the space. Facilities include a small amphitheater and rentable building, supporting community events and gatherings.

Plenty of parking spaces surround the area, making access easy. Walking paths connect the parking to various spots.

Three picnic tables sit in clean areas. Weekdays offer quiet spots for a picnic and playtime.

People are saying

"This park has playgrounds and sports fields for all ages."

"It's perfect for a picnic with separate play areas for kids."

"I found there was plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

Families can enjoy movies under the stars during summer evenings.

2

The event features fun activities for kids, making it family-friendly.

3

Bring water bottles and wipes, as there are no permanent restrooms.

09
Brookview Park image 1

Large park with extensive playgrounds and multiple sports courts offers a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Spacious, shaded picnic areas and well-maintained paths support gatherings and outdoor activities. Popular with children, bicyclists, and dog owners, it features ample parking and covered group spaces.

Lots of parking spots spread across different corners make it easy to find a place. The parking area is large and well organized.

Spacious, shaded picnic areas with ample picnic tables and multiple grilling spots suit large gatherings well. Clean restrooms and a sink with water near the covered pavilion add convenience, while a small pond enhances the bucolic setting.

People are saying

"I found the park's playground to be huge and beautiful."

"It's a great place for a picnic with ample shaded tables."

"There was lots of parking available."

Good to know

1

Brookview Park has multiple covered group spaces available for events.

2

Restrooms are available and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

Parking is ample, with multiple areas to accommodate visitors.

10
Lake Gervais County Park image 1

Lakefront park offers quiet atmosphere with small, clean beach and playground nearby. Plenty of picnic tables and grills support family outings. Parking is ample and close to the lake, making access easy for paddling and fishing.

Plenty of parking spots sit close to the beach and park. The parking lot feels safe and easy to access, so finding a spot is quick and hassle-free.

Several picnic tables sit near a beach and playground. A grill and a spot to dump hot coals make cooking easy. Restrooms are available nearby.

People are saying

"It's a wonderful place with picnic tables and a grill."

"It's a nice quiet path, perfect for a meditation spot."

"I found Parking Available was plentiful here."

Good to know

1

The park has a great amount of parking available.

2

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

3

The beach is shallow, so it's suitable for kids.

11
Casey Lake Park image 1

Park centers on a large lake with walking paths and spacious playgrounds for children. It offers shady areas and facilities for family events, including a hall and patio. The atmosphere is family-friendly and well-kept, attracting people of all ages for walking, playing, and gatherings.

Plenty of parking spots sit close to the entrance. The lot offers convenient access with a moderate size that handles usual crowds well.

Lots of green space invites spreading out for a picnic. A covered picnic area and rentable facility support group gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids with a roomy playground."

"I loved the pretty lake views and the nice walking path."

"It's a great place to picnic with lots of green space."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at Casey Lake Park.

2

The park features a large play area for kids.

3

The restrooms at Casey Lake Park are clean and open year-round.

12
Antlers Park image 1

Newly remodeled park offers beach access, large playground, and picnic areas with canopies. Loud music and a lively atmosphere fill the space, with a pavilion serving ice cream and cold beer. Plenty of outdoor seating and sand volleyball pits add to the active, social vibe.

Plenty of parking spots surround the area. Visitors find lots of parking available without hassle.

Lots of picnic tables spread across the grounds make it easy to set up. The area includes a playground and a beach, adding options beyond just eating.

People are saying

"The beach here is nice and clean."

"There was plenty of parking available."

"I found the playground here to be nice for the kids."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends, so arrive early.

2

The park has restrooms and food options available.

3

The swimming beach is clean and well-maintained.

13
Trapp Farm Park image 1

Large covered picnic shelter with kitchenette and indoor restrooms supports group events. Playground, walking trails, and a dock by a pond create a family-friendly atmosphere. Fire pit, beach volleyball area, and connection to a bike path add variety to outdoor activities.

Plenty of free parking spots exist, making it easy to find a place for your car. The lot has ample space to handle many vehicles during events.

Large picnic shelter offers a kitchenette and indoor restrooms for convenience. Covered picnic areas provide shade and tables suitable for parties and community events.

People are saying

"You can have a picnic at the park with a large playground and a dock."

"I found the park to be beautiful and well maintained."

"There was plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking available, which is useful for events.

2

The park features a large playground suitable for children of all ages.

3

In winter, the park offers snow tubing on a big hill for family fun.

14
Bush Lake Park image 1

Lake with crystal-clear waters anchors a spacious park featuring multiple playgrounds and well-maintained walking trails. Calm and peaceful atmosphere suits families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking fishing, swimming, or kayaking. Facilities include picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a sandy beach with a roped-off swimming zone.

Free parking is available with ample spaces near the boat launch and beach. Finding a spot is easy even when busy.

Ample green space surrounds the lake with picnic tables and grills. Nice pavilions suit gatherings, barbecues, and picnics near a sandy beach and playground.

People are saying

"The parks here have great playgrounds perfect for kids."

"The beach and swim area were super clean."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Bush Lake Park offers free parking for all visitors.

2

The park has clean bathrooms available for public use.

3

Canoe rentals are available, or you can bring your own canoe.

15
MSP Aircraft Viewing Area image 1

Open-air vista point offers up-close views of aircraft taxiing, taking off, and landing near multiple runways. The setting is quiet and lowkey with picnic tables and benches scattered around a grassy area. Visitors include families and aviation enthusiasts who enjoy the free access and ample parking.

Plenty of free parking spaces surround the aircraft viewing area. Amenities include a picnic table, benches, and a porta potty, all with no entry fee.

A picnic table and benches provide a solid spot to eat. Free parking and no entry fee make it easy to visit. A porta potty is available nearby for convenience.

People are saying

"It's a blast for kids who love watching planes."

"It's a cool spot to watch planes take off and land up close."

"It's awesome to sit and watch planes land and take off."

Good to know

1

The MSP Aircraft Viewing Area is free to enter.

2

There are no bathrooms available at the viewing area.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

16
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park image 1

Large beach and extensive playground offer space for swimming and climbing. Open areas with picnic tables and volleyball sand courts create a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Calm water and walking trails provide a peaceful setting amid busy activity.

Well maintained, separate launch and parking exist for non-motorized boats. Parking lot near the beach and fishing pier stays mostly empty with plenty of parking available nearby.

Well-kept grounds offer plenty of picnic tables and a shady pavilion for meals. The picnic areas sit near a kids playground and a swimming beach, with space to play around.

People are saying

"This park's playground is challenging and has equipment for younger kids."

"The playground here is challenging and has equipment for all ages."

"Parking available nearby was plentiful."

Good to know

1

Pavilions can be reserved for larger gatherings.

2

The beach is suitable for children with a shallow entry.

3

The playground has new equipment and is suitable for all ages.

17
Rosland Park image 1

Park offers playground with ziplines, water slides, and a disc golf course amid scattered trees providing shade. Atmosphere feels fun and festive with many benches and picnic areas for relaxation. Families frequent the space for its variety of outdoor activities and clean, open setting.

Parking spots sit right next to the park and stay visible, making access simple. Side streets offer easy parking with enough slots to avoid hassle.

Green spaces and picnic tables provide spots for meals outdoors. Large picnic shelters offer covered areas. Benches and multiple picnic areas fit groups of various sizes.

People are saying

"The playground has fun extras like musical notes and outdoor xylophones."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with shelters and multiple pickleball courts."

"I found the parking available to be great."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy on the side streets near the park.

2

The park has a variety of activities for kids, including a water park and playground.

3

The water park has many lifeguards on duty for safety.

18
Richard Walton Park image 1

Large park offers extensive sports facilities including baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a skatepark. Enclosed playground and multiple pavilions create a family-friendly atmosphere with spaces for picnics and events. Live music stage and open areas provide a community gathering spot with a peaceful, clean, and safe vibe.

Several decent-sized parking lots provide plenty of parking. Additional spots exist near the police station, keeping parking options close by.

Shelters and picnic tables provide spots to eat outdoors. A pavilion and outdoor grill support group meals. The area sits near playgrounds and sports courts for added fun.

People are saying

"This park has a great playground and is awesome for kids."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a pavilion and grill."

"There's plenty of parking available nearby."

Good to know

1

The Farmer's Market runs every Wednesday afternoon during summer months.

2

Expect food trucks at the Farmer's Market for a variety of options.

3

The park features multiple sports facilities, including baseball fields and a basketball court.

19
Lake Minnetonka Regional Park image 1

Manmade swim pond with a sandy beach and clean, shallow water creates a safe spot for all ages. Large nautical-themed playground offers climbing nets and slides surrounded by open green spaces and walking trails. Busy on nice days, the park balances relaxing lake views with active family-friendly amenities.

Ample parking exists with lots of boat parking and spaces for other vehicles. A separate lot serves the swimming pond across the street, and parking rarely becomes an issue even on busy summer days.

People are saying

"The playground here is enormous, with structures for all ages."

"I loved the clean sand beach swim pond."

"There was lots of parking available."

Good to know

1

The park has a clean sand beach perfect for families.

2

Expect busy days during nice weather; arrive early for parking.

3

The swim area is shallow and sandy, ideal for young children.

20
Burnes Park image 1

Park offers large splash pad, multiple playgrounds, and varied sports courts within a well-maintained natural setting. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-friendly, with spaces suited for all ages. Facilities include picnic areas with grills and plenty of seating, encouraging relaxed gatherings.

Parking offers ample spaces most times, making it easy to find a spot. However, it gets limited and crowded on summer Friday evenings.

Large picnic area offers many picnic tables and stand grills. Pavilion includes tables and electricity outlets for convenience.

People are saying

"This park has a fun splash pad and playground for the kids."

"The splash pad and playground make it a fun picnic spot for kids."

"I noticed there were lots of parking spaces available."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited and hard to find during summer evenings.

2

Bring a swimsuit for kids to enjoy the water play area.

3

The indoor restrooms are clean and well-maintained.

21
Fish Lake Regional Park image 1

Park features beautiful tree-lined trails and a scenic lake with a clean, kid-friendly beach and watercraft rentals. Atmosphere stays peaceful and safe, attracting people for walking, swimming, and dog activities. Amenities include paved trails, a dog park, and plenty of space for relaxation.

Free parking is available with a large lot providing plenty of space.

Shady areas with plenty of picnic tables make it easy to settle in for a meal. The spot works well for a relaxing day with friends or family.

People are saying

"The beach here is clean and has lots of shade."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of trees for shade."

"There's a lot of parking available here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

The park features a clean beach with shallow areas safe for young children.

3

Canoe rentals are available for those looking to explore the lake.

22
Woodhaven Park image 1

Spacious park offers age-designated play areas with a mix of traditional and modern equipment like ziplines, ropes courses, and unique basketball hoops. The atmosphere is lively and busy, attracting families with children of all ages. Facilities include ample parking, picnic tables, and accessible restrooms, making it suitable for extended visits.

Plenty of parking spots surround the area. A parking lot sits close by for easy access.

Eight picnic tables provide seating for meals. Bathrooms include running water for convenience during picnics.

People are saying

"This playground has awesome, modern equipment for all ages."

"It's accessible with a great adult changing table in the bathroom."

"The playground here kept my grandson busy for hours."

Good to know

1

The park has designated play areas for different age groups.

2

There is ample parking available at the park.

3

Restrooms are clean and include changing tables.

23
Lake Owasso County Park image 1

Park offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with clean sandy shores and ample parking. Families enjoy top-notch amenities like a playground, picnic shelters, and boat launch. Natural surroundings feel organic, with logs and stumps adding a unique touch distinct from typical city parks.

Parking sits within 50 feet of the beach, making access easy. Plenty of space exists for boat trailers at the county park, while car parking is reasonable though boat parking is limited.

A pavilion with BBQ grills and picnic tables suits larger groups and private rentals. A beach and playground sit on opposite sides of the road, offering varied spots for picnics.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be nice and clean."

"I found ample parking available, usually close by."

"This park is a great place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park is free to access.

2

There is limited parking available for boats, but ample parking for cars.

3

The beach area is clean and not too crowded.

24
Hyland Lake Park Reserve image 1

Nature preserve offers spacious picnic areas and a large, creatively designed playground with shaded spots for parents. Trails are beautifully paved and accessible, winding through serene, clear lake views and lush trees. Facilities include chalet-style buildings with fireplaces and concessions, supporting both relaxation and family activities.

Plenty of parking exists with two options: a pay lot near the ski hill charging $3 per hour and a free off-site lot with shuttle service. Parking is usually easy but can get tricky on busy, beautiful days.

Spacious fields with multiple picnic tables offer plenty of room to spread out. Well maintained picnic shelters and scenic areas make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a fantastic playground."

"The bathrooms here are clean and well-maintained."

"It's a great place for a picnic with a fantastic playground for kids."

Good to know

1

Wednesday night happy hour features food vendors and is family-friendly.

2

Summer events include movie nights and concerts at Hyland Lake Park Reserve.

3

The park has areas available for reservation for large gatherings.

25
East Medicine Lake Park image 1

Small park with large playground featuring diverse swings and slides, plus beach access and a boat launch. Atmosphere is serene but noisy due to nearby freeway and busy beach area. Offers picnic shelters with grills and water stations, plus walking and bike trails around the lake.

Plenty of parking spots and EV charging stations make access easy. Beach access comes quickly after crossing a foot bridge from the lot.

Open green spaces create a beautiful setting for picnics. Plenty of room makes it easy to hang out with kids or enjoy a picnic lunch.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with an awesome playground."

"I loved the nice view of the lake, especially at sunset."

"It's a great picnic spot with plenty of tables."

Good to know

1

The beach is closed due to water quality issues.

2

There is free parking available at the park.

3

The park has clean restrooms and well-maintained facilities.

26
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park image 1

Large park surrounds a small lake with paved and dirt trails for hiking, biking, and skiing. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere with family-friendly playgrounds and a fishing dock. Facilities include a heated pavilion and a spacious indoor room for events.

Parking includes a well-maintained lot with spots available near the headquarters building. Costs apply but make sense for longer visits, especially when using the state park pass.

Well-maintained picnic areas sit near clean toilets and ample parking. Paths lead to a solid headquarters building that supports the picnic experience.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with lovely trails for walking."

"The picnic area here is really nice and well-maintained."

"I found parking spots available at the park."

Good to know

1

To access the park, a Washington County park pass or $7 per day is required.

2

Parking costs $7 without a permit, which is not worth it unless staying all day.

3

The park has well-maintained paths, toilets, picnic areas, and parking facilities.

27
Weaver Lake Community Park image 1

Spacious park with a quiet beach and soft sand offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. Multiple courts and fields support basketball, tennis, pickleball, and baseball, alongside playgrounds and picnic areas. Trails wind through woods, and an ice rink adds seasonal variety.

Large parking lots offer easy access and plenty of spaces. Some areas have no parking due to residential restrictions.

Lots of picnic tables sit in a wooded area with charcoal grills. A slide connects the picnic spot to the beach, adding fun access.

People are saying

"This park has a great beach and playground for the kids."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of tables in the woods."

"The parking lot is huge with plenty of spaces."

Good to know

1

Swimming is permitted until 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.

3

Parking is usually available, but can get busy on hot summer days.

28
Como Lakeside Pavilion image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor pavilion on a lake offers covered seating with orchestra-quality live music and a cool breeze from the water. Visitors enjoy walking trails, paddle boats, and a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with space for sitting or dancing. The crowd is diverse and friendly, creating a welcoming community vibe.

Two free surface lots sit on either side of the pavilion with additional free parking along sloping park roads. Parking fills up quickly on weekends, so arriving early helps secure a spot.

Open spaces support outdoor entertainment and picnics. Plenty of room for sports alongside picnic areas for groups.

People are saying

"It's a great outdoor space with a nice walking path around the lake."

"There's plenty of parking available, with lots on two sides."

"I enjoyed a lovely picnic by the beautiful lake."

Good to know

1

Free concerts are held regularly at Como Lakeside Pavilion during the summer.

2

Parking is free but can be difficult to find on weekends.

3

The pavilion hosts live music events, often at no cost to attendees.

29
Snail Lake Regional Park image 1

Park divides into two levels with wooded trails, beach area, and playground. Atmosphere stays calm with ample parking and clean lake surroundings. Visitors enjoy walking, biking, picnicking, and water activities without crowds.

Free parking spreads across a large lot on the lower level and near the boat landing with space for trailers. Ample parking spots sit close to the lakeview trails.

Plenty of picnic areas spread across two levels offer options for groups. Covered picnic tables sit near a kids' playground and restrooms, while grills and more tables line the hillside.

People are saying

"The picnic spot here is beautiful and clean."

"I enjoyed the nice beach and swimming area."

"You'll find ample parking, even for trailers."

Good to know

1

The park has a boat launch, restrooms, and picnic shelters.

2

There is free parking available at the park.

3

The restrooms at the park are clean.

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