Twin Cities Business Listing

Square Lake Park boasts some of the clearest waters in Minnesota (the cleanest in the metro area). For this reason, it attracts both swimmers and scuba divers to Square Lake. Families visit this park for the beach. It is also a popular fishing lake. While the park is free to visit, there is a vehicle fee (see more information below). Washington County waives its vehicle fees on the first Tuesday of the month.

Square Lake Park Beach

Washington County beaches are open between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day. Regular Beach Hours are 9 am – 8 pm. Square Lake beach is a 690 foot sandy area. Find more details and beach rules on Washington County’s website. For more metro beaches, Splash Happy: Twin Cities Guide to Beaches, Pools, Water Parks & Splash Pads.

5 Ideas for Family Fun at Square Lake Park

Square Lake Park is all about the water. Whether you are swimming, fishing or boating, it is a park for getting out on the lake. There is no playground at this park, but Anne recommends combining this visit with Teddy Bear Park in Stillwater if you want a play break.

1. Swim at the beach. Anne lists this beach in her Top 20+ Twin Cities Beaches to Try This Summer
2. Go for a boat ride. The park has a boat launch, so you can launch your family’s watercraft here.
3. Fish. There is a fishing pier, and the Minnesota DNR tells us the lake has Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, Rainbow Trout, Bullhead, and Yellow Perch.
4. Go Scuba Diving. This is a popular destination for divers.  The water is deep and clear.
5. Attend a Park Program. Managed by Washington County Parks, this park offers a lot of Stand Up Paddleboard Programs, but also look for First Tuesday programs – particularly in the summer.

Pay Stations for Vehicle Fees

New in 2019: There is no longer an entrance gate shack at the entrance of the park. Instead, credit card pay stations have been installed in both parking lots at the top of the stairs leading to the beach. A vehicle fee is still required and must be displayed on the dashboard. Both daily and annual vehicle permit can be purchased at these pay stations. However, annual permit receipts will need to be redeemed by mail or at a park office during your visit.