Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Minnesota's best

Picnic spots

A picnic spot that offers a real escape without requiring a hike to find a quiet patch of grass.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Riley Lake Park Pavilion image 1
Riley Lake Park Pavilion image 2
Riley Lake Park Pavilion image 3
View all

Park blends beach access with lush greenery and trails for walking and biking. Spacious picnic areas with barbecue spots and playgrounds invite family fun. Peaceful, open spaces support sports and outdoor activities without crowding.

A well-maintained picnic area with cover sits near a beautiful lake and beach. Spacious grounds include barbecue spots and a playground, making it great for day picnics.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a nice lake and playground."

"I found the picnic area here to be beautiful and well-maintained."

"The beach here is clean and great for relaxing."

Good to know

1

The park has ample parking available for visitors.

2

The beach area is supervised by lifeguards during peak hours.

3

The picnic area is equipped with barbecue facilities for outdoor cooking.

02
Antlers Park image 1

Newly remodeled park shines with beach access and a large playground perfect for families. Picnic areas feature canopy-covered tables for shade and comfort. Lively vibe with loud music and a pavilion serving ice cream and cold beer keeps energy high.

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."

"It's a great place for kids, with a wonderful, spacious playground."

"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.

03
Sheridan Park image 1

Open layout offers clear views and a safe vibe. Picnic spots include a covered pavilion and shelter. Sports courts nearby add fun options. Kids enjoy play areas while dogs get walks.

A picnic pavilion and a picnic shelter provide covered spots for gatherings. Nearby courts and fields add options for activities during picnics.

People are saying

"The parks here feel so clean and welcoming."

"It's a perfect spot for a picnic with friends."

Good to know

1

The park has a nice picnic pavilion and various sports courts.

2

Parking is limited, and there are signs stating 'no parking' in some areas.

3

The park is clean and well-maintained, making it pleasant for visitors.

04
Holland Lake Shelter image 1

Shelter offers peaceful calm with abundant wildlife and scenic lakes. Picnic areas have tables with views perfect for meals outdoors. Trails invite hiking and lakes support water sports, blending nature and activity.

Picnic spots feature tables and a nice setting with views. The area is popular for combining picnics with activities like hiking and water sports.

People are saying

"I found the parks here to have great trails."

"It's a really nice place for picnics and enjoying the views."

Good to know

1

Holland Lake Shelter is a popular spot for picnics, hiking, and fishing.

2

The shelter is well maintained and clean, making it a pleasant visit.

3

There are miles of trails for walking and hiking around the shelter.

05
Marthaler Park image 1

Walking trails circle a pond with a dock, creating a peaceful setting. Picnic shelters provide covered spots for meals near a large playground with a huge fun slide. Recent updates blend natural beauty with updated amenities for families.

Two picnic shelters offer covered spots for meals. A large playground with a huge fun slide sits nearby for kids to enjoy.

People are saying

"The park's trails and dock are so peaceful and clean."

"The playground here is really fun and large."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful spot for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park has a new playground and picnic pavilion.

2

Ample parking is available for visitors.

3

The bathrooms are very clean and well-maintained.

06
Wabun Picnic Area image 1
Picnic ground

Large park has spacious picnic areas with shaded tables and shelters. Playground includes an accessible play zone and splash pad loved by kids. Lush greenery and big trees create a quiet, relaxing atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

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.

07
Cleary Lake Regional Park image 1

Large lake anchors a park with canoe rentals and a swimming beach. Tall trees and picnic areas with lake views create a peaceful, family-friendly spot. Amenities include a 9-hole golf course and plenty of walking trails for diverse activities.

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."

"It's a great place to walk your dog on the trails."

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

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.

08
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park image 1

Large park offers quiet trails for hiking and biking plus a family playground for kids. Picnic spots are well-maintained with clean toilets and easy parking. Heated pavilion and indoor room make events comfortable year-round.

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 bathrooms here are clean and accessible."

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

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.

09
Lions Coon Creek Park image 1

Large playground with modern equipment entertains kids while shaded picnic shelters offer great spots to eat. Walking trails and a nearby river invite exploration. Basketball and volleyball courts add lively sports action.

Shaded shelters and covered picnic tables provide spots to eat. Walking trails and a river add options to explore nearby.

People are saying

"This park's playground has a big tower and lots of choices."

"This playground is so kid friendly with lots of climbing and swings."

"The playground here is large with really nice equipment for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a playground, walking trails, picnic shelters, and a river to explore.

2

On-site restrooms are available during the summer.

3

Parking is typically plentiful.

10
Big Rivers Regional Trail image 1

Paved, shaded trails offer flat, accessible paths with stunning views of the river valley and sunsets. Picnic areas feature grills and covered pavilions perfect for gatherings. Restrooms and potable water near the trailhead add convenience.

Facilities include picnic tables, grills, and a covered pavilion for gatherings. Restrooms and potable water are available near the trailhead.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing sunset views here."

"The bathrooms here are really nice and clean."

"The picnic spot has a beautiful view of the river valley."

Good to know

1

The trailhead has restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and grills.

2

Restroom facilities are clean and open year-round.

3

The trails are flat and accessible for everyone to enjoy.

11
Becker Park image 1

New park shines with diverse playground equipment like ziplines and climbing structures on a soft base. Families enjoy shaded picnic shelters with grills and a big umbrella for comfort. Open green spaces add room for play and relaxation, making it safe and fun for all ages.

Multiple picnic shelter areas with benches and grills offer options for gatherings. A large picnic spot features a big umbrella for shade, suitable for celebrations or casual meals.

People are saying

"It's a really fun and safe place for kids with lots of activities."

"This park has a diverse mix of modern, inclusive playground equipment."

"The playground has a splash pad and cool spinning rides."

Good to know

1

Becker Park has 12 pickleball courts available for public use.

2

The playground features modern equipment suitable for children of all ages.

3

The park has clean restrooms and ample trash cans for cleanliness.

12
Peninsula Point Park image 1

Park features quiet atmosphere with shaded seating and a small playground. Open green spaces make it ideal for family picnics. Visitors enjoy fishing from shore and relaxing by the river confluence.

Open green spaces support family and company picnics comfortably. Nearby spots offer quick picnic lunches and opportunities to relax or fish during breaks.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with gorgeous gardens and river views."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic."

"It's a quiet Meditation Spot, peaceful and not crowded."

Good to know

1

The park has many plaques explaining the area's history.

2

There is a playground, making it family-friendly.

3

Expect plenty of parking available for visitors.

13
Mattocks Park image 1

Large trees offer ample shade over a spacious playground with varied equipment for all ages. Shaded picnic areas with several tables sit near flower beds, perfect for outdoor meals. Well-kept tennis courts add to the quiet, peaceful vibe in a clean neighborhood.

Shaded picnic areas and several picnic tables sit among flower beds. A playground nearby adds to the space, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors with kids around.

People are saying

"This park's playground is amazing for kids of all ages."

"The playground here is awesome and shady."

"It's a great place with a shaded picnic area."

Good to know

1

There are no bathrooms available at Mattocks Park.

2

The playground features shaded areas, making it comfortable for visits at any time.

3

The tennis courts at Mattocks Park are well maintained and available for use.

14
Spooner Park image 1

Wide open park features brand new Pickleball courts and unique playground equipment for fun and exercise. Shaded picnic pavilion with built-in fireplace offers a calm spot to relax and eat. Clean picnic areas near sports fields make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

Plenty of benches and a picnic pavilion make it easy to relax and eat. The picnic areas stay clean and sit near sports fields.

People are saying

"I love coming here to hang out and have a picnic."

"The playground here is unique and fun for kids."

"It's a fun, Kid Friendly place with a great playground."

Good to know

1

The annual Canadian Days festival is hosted at Spooner Park every summer.

2

The park features a clean pavilion and well-maintained bathrooms.

3

Spooner Park has beautiful walking trails for hiking and dog walking.

15
Mississippi River Community Park image 1

Nicely paved trails run along the river with historical signs and a fishing dock. Picnic shelters with tables offer great spots to eat. A diverse playground adds fun, while worn horseshoe pits give the park unique character.

Shelters with picnic tables provide good spots to eat. The park also has playground equipment and a fishing dock nearby.

People are saying

"It's a nice little park with a playground and trails along the river."

"I loved the pretty trails along the Mississippi River."

"The shelters have picnic tables perfect for enjoying the park."

Good to know

1

The park has paved trails, playgrounds, a fishing dock, and picnic shelters.

2

The paved trails are great for biking, walking, and running.

3

A shelter can be reserved through the city of Anoka.

16
Manomin Park image 1

Park features beautiful trails along a river and a peaceful atmosphere with natural views. Picnic spots offer a pleasant setting by the water. Kayak launch is nearby but requires a short carry across a busy road.

Picnic area offers a nice spot with access to the water. It provides a pleasant setting for a picnic.

People are saying

"The park's kayak launch requires carrying kayaks across a busy road."

"It's a nice picnic area with water access."

Good to know

1

Currently, Manomin Park is flooded, limiting access to some areas.

2

There is no usable kayak or canoe launch in the park.

3

The park features nice trails along the Mississippi River.

17
Shamrock Park image 1

Large open spaces host baseball fields and courts for tennis and basketball, perfect for active play. Shaded picnic pavilion with grill and tables offers a pleasant spot for meals and gatherings. Family-friendly vibe supports team sports and outdoor fun for kids.

Shaded areas and a pavilion with picnic tables and a grill make it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. The pavilion area feels pleasant and inviting for gatherings.

People are saying

"The playground at these parks is nicely shaded."

"It's nicely shaded and Kid Friendly for playing."

"The picnic area is nicely shaded."

Good to know

1

The playground is currently under construction, so some areas may be closed.

2

Shamrock Park has well-maintained sports fields for soccer, baseball, and tennis.

3

There are many shaded areas in the park, making it suitable for hot days.

18
Marshall Terrace Park image 1

Marshall Terrace Park blends river views with a playground and sports courts for family fun. Picnic tables and grills make it ideal for group gatherings. Wooden stairs lead to the riverbank, enhancing access to nature and birdwatching.

Marshall Terrace Park offers picnic tables and grills that support outdoor meals. It suits picnic lunches and group gatherings like birthday celebrations.

People are saying

"You can see the heron rookery from these parks."

"The nature-themed playground is right by the Mississippi River."

"I enjoyed grilling and having a picnic lunch here with the kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a small parking lot with limited spaces available.

2

Visitors can enjoy views of herons nesting in the nearby trees.

3

The park features a nature-themed playground suitable for children.

19
Golden Lake Park image 1

Park offers a calm atmosphere with covered pavilions perfect for picnics. Kids enjoy the extensive playground near a small beach. Families can fish from the dock or launch canoes, making it great for outdoor fun.

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.

20
Locke County Park image 1

Winding trails follow a creek through a large wooded area with a river overlook. Picnic areas feature gazebos with tables and a pavilion near playgrounds and ball fields. Facilities include bathrooms and a dog-friendly park, making it great for families and casual walks.

Gazebos with picnic tables provide shade for meals. A picnic pavilion offers a larger covered space. Bathrooms, including a porta potty, sit close to the picnic and playground areas.

People are saying

"This peaceful Meditation Spot offers quiet trails and sounds of nature."

"I found the parks here to be nice and well-maintained."

"It's a nice quiet area for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park has three parking lots available for visitors.

2

Public restrooms are accessible within the park.

3

The park is dog-friendly, allowing pets on leashes.

21
Whitetail Woods Regional Park image 1

Park features huge picnic areas with covered spots and many tables near a natural playground. Trails wind through forest and prairie, with a paved lakeside path perfect for strollers and bikes. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere supports relaxing outdoor gatherings.

Huge picnic areas include covered sitting spots and many picnic tables. Big grassy spaces sit near a playground for kids and walking trails.

People are saying

"I found this park to be absolutely beautiful and serene."

"The nature play area is beautiful and awesome for kids."

"The nature play area is awesome for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park has great pavilions suitable for hosting parties and weddings.

2

There was ample parking available.

3

Expect limited shade on hiking trails and few benches.

22
Thomas Lake Park image 1

Park blends woodlands, wetlands, and prairie with wide trails looping a shallow lake. Plenty of picnic tables and shelters make outdoor meals inviting. Open spaces and a pavilion offer quiet gatherings with great spots for wildlife watching.

Plenty of picnic tables provide ample seating. Picnic shelters offer covered spots for gatherings. The area feels nice and inviting for outdoor meals.

People are saying

"The parks have beautiful lakes, woodlands, and wildflowers."

"The picnic tables here are plentiful for seating."

"The bathroom here is spotless and smells fresh."

Good to know

1

The park features well-maintained trails suitable for walking and hiking.

2

Wildlife is abundant, including songbirds and giant snapping turtles.

3

The bathroom facilities are clean and well-maintained.

23
Moir Park image 1

Park offers large picnic shelters near playgrounds and bathrooms, perfect for group BBQs. Trails wind through a wooded ravine with a peaceful creek and wooden bridges. Paved paths suit wheelchairs and strollers, making it easy to explore and relax.

Large picnic shelters with many tables and grills support group gatherings and BBQs. Picnic areas sit close to bathrooms and playgrounds, with some benches and grills along the walking trail by the stream.

People are saying

"It's a nice place for a picnic or family outing."

"I found the walk along the creek to be peaceful and pretty."

"I had fun playing disc golf here."

Good to know

1

Bicycles are not allowed on the trails at Moir Park.

2

The park has a large picnic shelter suitable for outdoor events.

3

Bring your own trash bags if you plan to grill, as trash cans are limited.

24
Thompson County Park image 1

Country park features a large modern playground with musical elements and a fenced play area for safety. Multiple picnic spots with grills make group meals easy. A peaceful lake surrounded by trees offers a quiet place to relax and watch nature.

Multiple picnic areas and a grill make it easy to set up for groups. A playground nearby keeps kids entertained after eating.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with a nice lake for walking."

"The playground here is beautiful and modern."

"The playground here is perfect for little ones after a picnic."

Good to know

1

There is a ChargePoint EV charger in the south parking lot.

2

The restrooms on site are clean.

3

The park is family-friendly with a large playground for kids.

25
Tony Schmidt Regional Park image 1

Park features quiet atmosphere with a beautiful lake and picnic pavilions perfect for family lunches. Trails suit walking and biking, connecting to nearby parks. Facilities include playgrounds, boat launch, bathrooms, and water fountains for convenience.

Plenty of picnic tables and pavilions spread across the park offer good spots for lunch. Nearby, public bathrooms and water fountains add convenience.

People are saying

"The swimming beach here is shallow and great for kids."

"I loved walking the many nice trails and paths in the park."

"It's great for a picnic with plenty of tables and pavilions."

Good to know

1

The park has a good-sized swimming beach suitable for kids of any age.

2

Kayaks are available for rent through the app.

3

There are pavilions for rent, some equipped with kitchens.

26
Blackhawk Park image 1

Park features lush vegetation and well-maintained trails for peaceful walks. Families enjoy the large playground and covered picnic areas with plenty of tables. Fishing piers and a pavilion with kitchen add to the outdoor fun.

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."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot for relaxing."

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.

27
Sand Point Beach Park image 1

Clean lake views and picnic tables make it great for meals outdoors. Kids enjoy the playground while adults can relax or play volleyball on volleyball nets. Parking costs money and no lifeguard is present, keeping the vibe laid back and safe for families.

Plenty of picnic tables sit near the lake, letting you relax while listening to the waves. A playground and volleyball nets add options for fun alongside your picnic.

People are saying

"The playground here is great for kids of all ages."

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

"The beach and water here are so nice and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $6 and accepts only card payments.

2

There is no lifeguard on duty at the beach.

3

Restrooms are available at the beach.

28
Shoreview Commons Park image 1

Spacious park offers state-of-the-art playgrounds with rubber turf and diverse equipment. Huge picnic areas include a pavilion with charcoal grill for shelter and cooking. Lively atmosphere suits all ages with a skate park and nature walk around a pond.

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.

29
Aquatore Park image 1

Open green spaces with shaded picnic shelters and many picnic tables make it great for family meals. Extensive playground equipment and a zip line for all ages keep kids entertained. Calm and quiet areas suit long, relaxing outings.

Lots of grass and picnic tables spread throughout the park create plenty of spots to sit. Two covered picnic shelters offer shelter for family gatherings, and nearby restrooms add convenience.

People are saying

"This place is kid friendly with a great playground and swings."

"It's a great dog park, fun for all the dogs."

"It's a great place for kids with a nice playground and picnic tables."

Good to know

1

The park has separate areas for big and small dogs.

2

The playground is wheelchair accessible.

3

There are lots of trees providing shade during hot summer days.

30
Silver Lake Park image 1

Large lake offers natural beachfront and clean water for swimming and fishing. Picnic areas with grill tables and open spaces invite fun and food. Family-friendly features include a playground and tennis courts for all ages.

Natural beachfront and picnic tables provide spots to set up food and grill out. Plenty of room exists to toss a ball or frisbee near pavilions and walking paths.

People are saying

"I learned to swim and give CPR at this beach."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a nice playground."

"It's a nice picnic spot with plenty of room and tables."

Good to know

1

The park has a large lake with a dock area for fishing and viewing sunsets.

2

The picnic area has plenty of room for activities and tables for grilling.

3

The park has been restored with a natural beachfront and paved paths.

Discover more

Minnesota

Area guide
Loading Map...