Big Willow Park, Minnetonka
About
Big Willow Park is a lakeside gem that offers families the perfect blend of water fun and outdoor adventure. With direct Lake Minnetonka beach access, multiple playgrounds, and scenic trails, this expansive park provides everything you need for a full day of family entertainment in one beautiful location.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy beach with swimming access on beautiful Lake Minnetonka
- ✓Multiple playground structures for different age groups
- ✓Volleyball courts for active family fun
- ✓Scenic walking trails perfect for nature exploration
- ✓Spacious picnic areas with grills for family gatherings
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to snag prime beach spots and parking,this popular park fills up quickly on hot days
- 2.Bring water shoes for the kids as the beach entry can be rocky in spots, making it easier for little ones to wade safely
- 3.Pack a wagon or cart to transport beach gear from the parking lot to your chosen spot,the park is expansive and you'll thank yourself later
- 4.Check out the trails early morning or evening for the best wildlife spotting opportunities and cooler temperatures for family walks
- 5.The picnic areas have grills, so consider packing ingredients for a family cookout to make a full day of your visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the most peaceful experience with uncrowded beaches and playgrounds. For beach activities, visit June through August when the lake water is warmest. Early evenings in summer are magical for sunset picnics with fewer crowds than midday.
What to Know
Parking is free but can fill up quickly on summer weekends. Restroom facilities are available on-site. There's no food concession stand, so pack snacks, lunch, and plenty of water for your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Peak season is summer (June-August) for beach and water activities. Spring and fall offer beautiful trail walks with colorful foliage and fewer crowds. The park remains open year-round with winter offering opportunities for snow play and scenic winter walks, though beach facilities are seasonal.
Nearby Eats
Head to Punch Pizza Hopkins (about 5 minutes away) for quick, kid-friendly Neapolitan pizzas, or try The Tavern Grill in nearby Excelsior for a family-friendly atmosphere with a varied menu including burgers, sandwiches, and a kids' menu.
More Activities Near Minnetonka
Gray's Bay
Gray's Bay is a fantastic lakeside destination where families can spend an entire day enjoying Lake Minnetonka's beauty. With a sandy beach for swimming, playground equipment, paved walking trails, and a spacious lawn area perfect for picnics, this waterfront park offers the quintessential Minnesota summer experience that keeps kids entertained for hours.
Purgatory Park, Minnetonka Township
Purgatory Park is a hidden gem in Minnetonka that offers families the perfect blend of natural exploration and traditional playground fun. Kids can splash in the creek, spot turtles and birds along the scenic trails, then burn off energy on the playground equipment,all while parents enjoy the peaceful wooded setting and well-maintained paths.
Lone Lake Park
Lone Lake Park is a gem for families seeking a peaceful outdoor escape in Minnetonka. This well-maintained neighborhood park offers something for everyone,little ones can burn energy at the playground while older kids try their luck at the fishing pier, and the scenic walking trails around the lake make it easy to enjoy nature with strollers or bikes in tow.
Minnetonka Community Center
The Minnetonka Community Center is a one-stop destination for family fun year-round, featuring indoor swimming pools that are perfect for all skill levels, gymnastics programs, and a rotating calendar of youth activities. With its excellent 4.7-star rating, this full-service facility offers everything from open swim times to structured classes, making it ideal whether you're looking for a casual drop-in visit or regular programming for your kids.