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Located near the intersections of Yankee Doodle and Dodd Roads in Eagan, Thresher Fields Park offers a nature trail, space to picnic (both sheltered and unsheltered tables), soccer fields and an off-leash dog area. There is plenty of off-street parking at this park. Water and restrooms are available on a seasonal basis.

More Eagan Parks:

Eagan Family Fun: 10 Close-To-Home Parks to Explore This Summer

5 Ideas for Family Fun at Thresher Fields Park

1. Run wild on the playing field. Play some field games, kick a ball around or play tag.
2. Rest on the Art Bench  – Curious George by Judd Nelson.
3. Learn Eagan History. Find and read the historical marker in this park to learn how the park got its name.
4. Pack a picnic. Eat in the sun shelter if its not reserved or spread a blanket in the green space.
5. Bring the family dog. You will need to purchase a permit to use the off-leash area.

Curious George Art Bench by Judd Nelson

As part of Eagan’s 2018 Art Bench initiative, it commissioned Curious George by Judd Nelson to be placed at this park. Benches in this program represent the artist’s view of the unique landscape and neighborhood Where it was placed. As you rest on the bench with your kids, you can ask:

1. How does this bench represent Eagan to you?
2. Do you feel a connection to this crow?
3. Walk around the bench. The artist creates sculptures that can be appreciated from every vantage point. What do you see from other angles?
4. The bird looks like it is in motion. What do you think it will do next?
5. The artist believes the negative spaces are equally as important in defining the figure and hopes the viewer will fill in these shapes into what appeals most to them. Do you see anything in the spaces between?

Learn more about the artist here.

Birthday Parties

Families can reserve the sun shelter for private events, like birthday parties. This shelter will hold up to 60 people and includes a charcoal grill and non-exclusive use of the park. Note that this park can be busy with sports and may not always be available.

Updates to Thresher Fields Park

The City of Eagan is in the early stages of planning updates to this park. In 2019, the city added lighting and updated the nature trails. The park is also due for a new playground with easy-access trails connecting it to the shelter and dog park. Stay tuned.

Thresher Fields Off-Leash Dog Park

The year-round, off-leash area is really a “park for dogs” with a variety of terrain, including wooded areas, lake shore, trails, rolling hills, and other open spaces all within a fenced in area.  Because of this varied terrain, you may end up with a workout yourself trying to keep up with your dog. If your dog and kids are likely to run two different directions, this could be an issue for you at this park. There is a designated small dog area that is fenced off from the bigger dogs. Permits are  required and are $20 for 2 years. They are available to both residents and non-residents. Find more information here.