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Known by locals as “Med City”, Rochester, MN, is located in the southeastern corner of the state. If you are looking for spots to spend some time with your family or a group of friends, go for a hike, or have a picnic, these are some great state parks you can reach in less than an hour by car. Prepare some snacks, fill up your tank, and check out these fantastic destinations.
3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Rochester, MN
1. Lake Louise State Park
Covering a surface area of about 700 acres, Lake Louise State Park is a great spot for numerous outdoor activities including picnicking, camping, swimming, hiking, and horseback riding. For Rochester residents, this is a popular weekend and day trip destination that provides plenty of opportunities to get away from the city routine and take in some of the most beautiful sceneries southern Minnesota has to offer.
Lake Louise State Park was established in 1963 as a public recreation area with peaceful campgrounds, well-equipped picnic spots, and seasonal wildflower fields. The main attraction, however, is the 25-acre artificial reservoir located right in the center of the park, which offers excellent boating, swimming, and canoeing opportunities. Lake Louise State Park is located a little over 35 miles south of Rochester and can be reached in about 40 minutes by car.
2. John A. Latsch State Park
Located along the western banks of the Mississippi River and the Wisconsin state line, John A. Latsch State Park is another great destination for Rochester residents looking for spots to spend some time surrounded by nature. This public recreation area covers about 1,650 acres of territory and is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Established in 1925, it is home to significant populations of white-tailed deer, red foxes, coyotes, timber rattlesnakes, and opossums.
Driving from downtown Rochester to the entrance of John A. Latsch State Park takes a little under an hour, heading northeast along route MN-42. Once here, some popular activities include hiking, wildlife watching, and mountain biking. The park is open year round between 8 am and 10 pm. Once you make your way here, make sure to ask for a map and check out the extensive network of hiking trails the place has to offer.
3. Whitewater State Park
Established in 1919 and covering an area of about 1,700 acres, Whitewater State Park is a public recreation area located along the banks of the Whitewater River. Featuring scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and an expansive campground, it is a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend escape. This state park is located about 25 miles east of downtown Rochester, making it possible to get here in a little over half an hour by car along Highway 9.
If you are looking for a dealership in the Rochester area to buy a new or pre-owned vehicle, visit us at Rochester Ford and check out our extensive inventory of cars. Book an appointment with one of our expert sales agents and learn more about our different financing plans
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