Lake Susan Park
About
Lake Susan Park is a family-friendly gem in Chanhassen offering the perfect blend of active play and nature exploration. With its accessible fishing dock where kids can try catching their first fish, a well-equipped playground, and scenic walking trails that circle the lake, families can easily spend hours enjoying both structured play and natural discovery.
Highlights
- ✓Accessible fishing dock perfect for teaching kids to fish
- ✓Paved walking trail circling the entire lake (great for bikes and strollers)
- ✓Well-maintained playground with equipment for multiple age groups
- ✓Picnic shelters and open spaces for family gatherings
- ✓Wildlife watching opportunities including ducks, geese, and turtles
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring bread or birdseed to feed the ducks and geese near the shore,it's a huge hit with younger kids
- 2.The fishing dock can get busy on summer weekends; visit weekday mornings for a quieter experience and better fishing
- 3.Pack a picnic and reserve one of the shelters online during peak season, or grab a shaded table near the playground
- 4.The paved walking trail around the lake is stroller-friendly and perfect for bikes with training wheels
- 5.Don't forget fishing poles,the dock is accessible and great for beginners, though you'll need a MN fishing license for adults
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during spring and fall for peaceful trail walks and active wildlife. Summer evenings (6-8pm) are ideal for picnics with cooler temperatures and beautiful sunset views over the lake, though weekends can get crowded.
What to Know
The park is free to visit with ample parking available near both the playground and beach areas. There are restrooms on-site, and the paved trails make the park accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though no food concessions are available so bring your own snacks.
Seasonal Notes
The park shines in spring through fall when trails are clear and wildlife is most active. Winter offers cross-country skiing and ice fishing opportunities, though playground equipment may be snow-covered. Fall foliage around the lake is particularly stunning for family photos in late September and early October.
Nearby Eats
Head to Pizza Ranch (5 minutes away) for kid-friendly buffet options and arcade games, or stop at Culver's on West 78th Street for burgers, custard, and a quick family meal after your park adventure.
More Activities Near Chanhassen
Lake Ann Park
Lake Ann Park is a Chanhassen gem that offers something for every family member throughout the year. The sandy swimming beach and fishing pier make it a summer favorite, while the scenic walking trails and playground provide year-round entertainment. With picnic areas overlooking the beautiful lake, it's perfect for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family adventures.
Bluff Creek Elementary School
Bluff Creek Elementary School opens its well-maintained playground to the public during non-school hours, offering families in Chanhassen a safe, modern play space without the cost of admission. The combination of updated play equipment and open fields makes it an ideal spot for burning energy after school or on weekends.
University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
The University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum offers families an expansive outdoor adventure across 1,200 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, woodlands, and prairies. With miles of kid-friendly hiking trails, interactive nature discovery areas, and year-round seasonal activities from summer concerts to winter snowshoeing, it's an ideal destination for families wanting to explore nature without traveling far from the Twin Cities.
Carver Park Reserve
Carver Park Reserve is a sprawling 3,700-acre natural playground that offers families year-round outdoor adventures just minutes from Chanhassen. The Lowry Nature Center serves as the perfect home base for exploring miles of trails, spotting wildlife, and participating in hands-on environmental programs that turn curious kids into junior naturalists.