One of the best things about Chisago Lakes is the diverse array of outdoor activities for families! The shimmering lakes and lush greenery provide the perfect backdrop to endless summer adventures. Families love exploring wooded trails filled with wildflowers, birds, scenic views, and more. Then, canoeing and kayaking allow families to get on the water, fostering teamwork and a sense of adventure. And what better way to beat the summer heat than by taking a dip in one of the lakes? Indeed, from hiking and boating to thrilling alpine slides, Chisago Lakes offers endless fun in the sun with kids. If you’re looking for the best outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids, look no further than this list! Keep reading to discover our favorite outdoor adventures in Chisago Lakes.
Take a Hike
Chisago Lakes is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exciting activities. Undoubtedly, one of the best outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids is to take a hike. Those looking to hit the trails are in luck – there are plenty to choose from here! Nature lovers can start by exploring the expansive trail systems of Wild River State Park and Interstate State Park, encompassing over 30 miles of scenic routes between the two parks. At Interstate State Park, kids will love climbing amongst the large boulders and learning about the glacial potholes, while adults enjoy scenic views of the St. Croix River. Then, Wild River State Park offers river views, excellent birding opportunities, and more.
Alternatively, Allemansrätt Park, located in Lindström, is a local favorite for its unique history and lovely lakeside trails. There are several miles of trails here, and it’s also an excellent spot for fishing. Need more options for hiking? Consider Ojiketa Regional Park or the growing Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail.
Enjoy a Scenic Boat Tour
Looking for a low-key way to enjoy the outdoors in Chisago Lakes? Taking a scenic boat tour down the St. Croix River is sure to do the trick! With its iconic red paddlewheel, Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers a variety of tour options for all ages. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, every tour provides insights into local history and highlights the fascinating rock formations lining the river. This means you can simply sit back and take it all in while the boat glides along the water! Plus, whether you choose the indoor seating area or the covered upper deck, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views. They even have sundown and twilight cruise options. No wonder this is one of the best outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids!
Please note that there is a small concession area on board and restroom facilities.
Embark on a Canoe, Kayak, or Boating Adventure
Families up for a challenge can choose to embark on a canoe or kayak adventure! Whether you have your own watercraft or need to rent one, there are plenty of beautiful waterways to enjoy together. Try the Chisago Lakes Water Trail, a 13-mile paddling adventure spanning 10 serene lakes. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, the St. Croix River is a haven for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. While making your way down the St. Croix River, stop at one of the many islands and beaches for a picnic, to splash in the water, or just to enjoy the weather!
Alternatively, you can also enjoy the water by motorboat. The chain of five lakes in Chisago Lakes is ideal for fishing, bobbing along waves, and tubing. There is no better place to make family memories this summer than on one of our lakes!
You have two great options if you need to rent a canoe, kayak, or motorboat to enjoy one of these outdoor adventures in Chisago Lakes! Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental offers several options for canoeing and kayaking along the St. Croix River. We recommend the One-Way Trip to Osceola for beginners. Then, Captain Shawn’s Boat Rentals provides kayak, pontoon, and fishing boat rentals and Chisago Lakes Boat Rentals provides pontoon rentals.
Go Fishing
During the summer months, Chisago Lakes offers fantastic opportunities for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. If you love spending the day casting a line under the warm summer sun, our lakes, and the St. Croix River won’t disappoint. With various fish species, such as sunfish, walleye, crappie, and northern pike, there’s something to satisfy every angler’s interest – whether you are just starting out or a seasoned pro. Gather your kids, boat, and fishing gear, and venture out onto the open waters of Chisago Lakes! Together, you can relish the thrill of reeling in your next big catch! Undoubtedly, this is one of the top outdoor adventures in Chisago Lakes with kids!
To get started, South Lindstrom Lake, North Lindstrom Lake, and South Center Lakes are great options. Alternatively, if you want to cast your line from shore or give kids a small taste of fishing for the first time, Allemansrätt Park and Beach Park are great options.
If needed, Captain Shawn’s Boat Rentals provides pontoon and fishing boat rentals and Chisago Lakes Boat Rentals provides pontoon rentals. To learn more about Fishing in Chisago Lakes, click here!
Challenge Your Family to a Round of Mini-Golfing
Next on our list of the best outdoor activities in Chisago Lakes with kids – mini-golfing! Who doesn’t love a little round (or two!) of putt-putt on a summer day? With 18 holes, Adventure Falls Mini Golf has all the makings of a fun family day outside. Children can practice their hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and patience as they navigate through the challenging, yet enjoyable, holes. The greens wrap around ponds, streams, and a fun waterfall. Each one is uniquely designed with a bit of whimsy, which will delight kids and adults alike. So grab a putter, gather the family, and embark on a mini-golf adventure that promises laughter and joy for everyone involved. Win or lose, everyone can celebrate with a milkshake or root beer float at The Drive In Restaurant afterward!
Hit the Beach + Take a Swim
What is more quintessential than a Minnesota summer day and time on one of our many lakes? Indeed, hot summer days beg for days at the beach! Families looking for the best outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids have to add swimming to their list. With several options in Chisago Lakes, families can enjoy a refreshing dip in the water while surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Wondering where to go swimming in Chisago Lakes? Beach Park features a sandy swimming beach, fishing pier, playground, and more. Then, Paradise Park has a beach on Chisago Lake, as well as a playground. Finally, make it a little more interesting by stopping at one of the many beaches and islands along the St. Croix River as you paddle around by canoe or kayak between Taylors Falls and Osceola. Undoubtedly, swimming with kids is a delightful way to beat the summer heat and create lasting memories.
Spend a Thrilling Day at Wild Mountain
Families seeking an action-packed day filled with outdoor activities in Chisago Lakes can head straight to Wild Mountain! Offering everything from waterslides and a Lazy River to alpine slides and Go-Karts, Wild Mountain is chock-full of thrilling adventures for everyone in your family. Start your day by zooming down the Arctic Rush Alpine Slide. There are even two slides, so kids can race their parents to the bottom. Then, speed around the Go-Kart course together. Daredevil family members can even freefall from the two-story FreeFall XP platform (must be 46″ or taller).
Once you’ve gotten your thrills on dry land, head to Wild Adventure Island Waterpark for a sunny afternoon making waves and splashing together! Your kids will love getting wet amongst the jets, slides, and even a 350-gallon dumping bucket. Need a few more adrenalin-packed minutes? Race down the four Avalanche Alley Waterslides. With so many exciting opportunities to race, splash, and bond as a family, no wonder Wild Mountain is one of the best outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids!
Go to the Park
As you can see, we have no shortage of outdoor activities in Chisago Lakes! Next on our list is spending the day playing together at one of our many parks. Families are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding parks and playgrounds. In Lindström, Beach Park is a popular choice. Here, kids can play at the large playground, while parents enjoy scenic views of the lake. Pack a picnic and a swimsuit, as this park has a sandy beach and water access. Then, Ki-Chi-Saga Park is an excellent option for families who love local history. Here, you can explore the grounds of the Karl Oskar House, an original 19th-century Swedish Immigrant House. There is a small playground nearby too. Other fun options include Lindström Lions Park, Paradise Park (which includes a beach), and Vilhelm Moberg Park (which has a train-themed play area!).
Spend a Night or Two Camping
Need more time in the great outdoors? Try a night or two (or more!) of camping in Chisago Lakes with kids. Outdoor adventures abound in Chisago Lakes when you take your kids camping. Many of our campgrounds include options for hiking, biking, fishing, and other fun summer activities for families. Plus, you have your pick for scenery, from lakes and rivers to forests. Pack your bags and your tent and head to one of our many campgrounds!
Wondering where to camp in Chisago Lakes with kids? From organized campsites with fire pits and tables to pitching a tent within the on-site vineyard, Wild Vines Campground is a great option for families. Then, Wildwood Campground & RV Park is another great option. There is even a pool and playground on-site! Families interested in a more rustic and wild experience will love St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Campsites are nestled along the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers (permits are required). Adventurous families will love that these campsites are often accessible only by water and can be pretty remote!
Then, those traveling by RV will find everything they need at Whispering Bay Resort/RV Park. Finally, Interstate State Park, Ojiketa Regional Park, and Wild River State Park all offer lovely campsites and varying amenities.
Enjoy Your Family Adventures!
We hope you found this article featuring our favorite outdoor things to do in Chisago Lakes with kids helpful in planning your own experiences! From hiking and kayaking to waterparks and mini-golfing, our communities have everything you need for outdoor adventures this summer. Thanks for stopping by and spending time with our community. We can’t wait to see you again!
