Photo: Dean Dahlen
Photo: Adam Bavier
Photo: Tori Peraza
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
★4.7(3,032 reviews)FreeWater Park
🕑 3-5 hours for a beach day; 1.5-2 hours for trail walking or a quick playground visit👶 Best for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Little ones love splashing at the sandy beach and playground equipment, elementary-aged kids enjoy paddleboating and fishing, while tweens and teens appreciate the extensive trail system for biking and exploring.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
Hyland Lake Park Reserve is a sprawling outdoor paradise in Bloomington that offers families everything from a sandy beach and swimming area to paddleboat rentals and miles of scenic trails. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, this versatile park reserve delivers year-round fun whether your family loves water play in summer, hiking through nature, fishing from the pier, or enjoying picnics in beautiful natural surroundings.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy swimming beach with designated swimming area perfect for young children
- ✓Paddleboat rentals for family adventures on the lake
- ✓Multiple playgrounds throughout the park reserve
- ✓Fishing pier ideal for introducing kids to angling
- ✓Extensive trail network for hiking, biking, and nature exploration
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag a prime spot near the beach and avoid parking hassles,the best shaded picnic tables go quickly.
- 2.Bring water shoes for the beach area as the sandy bottom can have rocks and pebbles in some spots.
- 3.Pack your own food and drinks since there aren't many concessions on-site, and take advantage of the excellent picnic grounds with grills.
- 4.Don't miss the fishing pier,it's perfect for young anglers and you can often catch bluegill and sunfish without needing a boat.
- 5.Download a trail map before you visit; the park has multiple trail systems and it's easy to wander longer than planned with kids.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) during summer offer the best beach experience with smaller crowds and calmer waters. For hiking and trail activities, early fall provides gorgeous foliage and comfortable temperatures without the summer heat.
What to Know
Three Hennepin County park permits are required for vehicle entry (daily, annual, and multi-park passes available). The park offers ample parking, restroom facilities, and accessible trails, though families should bring their own food and beach supplies as concession options are limited.
Seasonal Notes
Swimming and paddleboat rentals typically operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. Trails and picnic areas are open year-round (5 AM-10 PM daily), making this great for winter hiking and cross-country skiing when conditions permit. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for snowshoeing and sledding.
Nearby Eats
Head to Plum's Cafe & Catering (about 10 minutes away) for kid-friendly comfort food and generous portions, or stop at Chipotle and Panera Bread in the nearby Penn American shopping area for quick, familiar options the whole family will enjoy.
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