DLM Distribution

Big Stone Lake State Park, located near Ortonville, Minnesota, offers one of the most serene and scenic destinations along the Minnesota–South Dakota border. Stretching 26 miles in length, Big Stone Lake forms the headwaters of the Minnesota River and serves as the park’s sparkling centerpiece. Established in 1961, this peaceful park blends prairie landscapes, oak-studded hills, and quiet lakeshore recreation, making it a favorite spot for campers, hikers, and anyone who enjoys authentic Minnesota outdoor experiences.

A Lake Born of Glaciers and Rich in History

Big Stone Lake’s story began more than 10,000 years ago, when melting glaciers carved the deep, narrow valley now filled by the lake. The name “Big Stone” comes from the massive granite boulders left behind by retreating ice sheets—reminders of Minnesota’s ancient geological past. Indigenous Dakota people once lived and traveled along these shores, using the fertile land and rich fishery to sustain their communities. Today, interpretive signs and natural landscapes throughout the park help preserve that legacy, connecting modern visitors to the area’s deep cultural roots.

Park Layout and Features

Big Stone Lake State Park is divided into three main areas: Meadowbrook, Bonanza, and the Overlook Area.

The Meadowbrook Area, located near the southern end of the lake, is the park’s main hub for camping, swimming, and boating. Here you’ll find a sandy beach, picnic grounds, a boat launch, and a well-maintained campground that accommodates tents, small RVs, and campervans. The Bonanza Area, to the north, offers a quieter, more natural setting with wooded hillsides, native prairie restoration areas, and access to the Bonanza Education Center, where visitors can learn about local ecosystems and wildlife. The Overlook Area provides sweeping panoramic views of Big Stone Lake—perfect for photography, birdwatching, and evening sunsets.

Hiking Trails and Nature Walks

Big Stone Lake State Park offers several scenic hiking opportunities that highlight the area’s diversity. The Hiking Club Trail in the Bonanza Area is an enjoyable two-mile loop through oak woodlands and prairie ridges with excellent lake views. The Prairie Trail in the Meadowbrook Area is another favorite, winding through tallgrass prairie filled with wildflowers, big bluestem, and Indian grass during summer. For a shorter and easier walk, the Bluebird Trail provides a one-mile loop ideal for birdwatchers and families.

Each trail offers a peaceful, uncrowded experience—perfect for spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, meadowlarks, and migrating waterfowl that frequent the park throughout the year.

Camping by the Water

The Meadowbrook Campground offers 37 sites, including 10 with electrical hookups and several that sit right along the lake, allowing you to fish or launch a kayak directly from your campsite. Modern facilities include showers, restrooms, and a dump station. The campground’s layout provides a balance of shade, open space, and direct lake access. Quiet hours ensure restful nights, and the gentle lake breeze keeps things comfortable even in midsummer.

This peaceful setting makes Big Stone Lake State Park an excellent stop for Mini-T Campervan travelers and anyone seeking a smaller, well-equipped campground without the crowds often found in larger state parks.

Fishing, Boating, and Lake Recreation

Big Stone Lake is one of western Minnesota’s premier fishing destinations. Anglers come here for walleye, perch, bluegill, crappie, and northern pike. With several boat launches and good shoreline access, it’s easy to get on the water whether you’re using a fishing boat, kayak, or paddleboard. Because the lake straddles the Minnesota–South Dakota border, visitors should check both states’ fishing regulations before casting a line.

The lake’s length and orientation make it a great spot for boating and sightseeing as well—expect peaceful coves, migrating pelicans, and brilliant prairie sunsets reflected on calm evening waters.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

Big Stone Lake State Park’s landscape transitions beautifully between open prairie, oak savanna, and lakeshore habitat, supporting a diverse range of wildlife. Birdwatchers will find an abundance of species year-round, from meadowlarks and orioles in summer to bald eagles and waterfowl during migration seasons. The prairie areas are home to native wildflowers that attract pollinators and provide stunning seasonal color displays from spring through early fall.

Nearby Attractions and Local Exploration

The nearby town of Ortonville is just minutes from the park and offers restaurants, grocery stores, and local shops—handy for refueling both yourself and your campervan. Across the lake in South Dakota, Hartford Beach State Park provides additional hiking trails and a scenic counterpart to Minnesota’s park on the opposite shore. History buffs will also appreciate the area’s interpretive sites highlighting glacial geology and early settlement patterns.

Why Visit Big Stone Lake State Park

Few places in Minnesota offer such a seamless blend of water recreation, prairie hiking, and lakeside tranquility. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a day of fishing, or simply a peaceful stop during a Mini-T Campervan road trip, Big Stone Lake State Park captures the essence of western Minnesota’s natural beauty. From sunrise over the tallgrass prairie to sunset reflecting across the lake’s glassy surface, it’s a place where simplicity and nature meet—inviting you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly enjoy the outdoors.

Looking for more Minnesota State Parks to visit? Consider a Minnesota State Park Passport book and discover them all!

Happy Camping!