Clear Lake MinnesotaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clear Lake, Minnesota.
1. Clear Waters Outfitting
RIVER ADVENTURES AND RECREATION
Clear Waters Outfitting offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Mississippi River through guided kayak and canoe trips. Visitors can enjoy the pristine waters while learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife from knowledgeable guides. With a high rating of 4.9, this outfitter provides quality equipment and memorable outdoor adventures for all skill levels.
2. Warner Lake Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Warner Lake Park provides a tranquil natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and fishing while taking in the beautiful lake views and surrounding woodland. The park's well-maintained facilities and natural beauty have earned it a solid 4.2 rating from visitors seeking relaxation in nature.
3. Pebble Creek Golf Course
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Pebble Creek Golf Course offers golf enthusiasts a beautifully maintained championship course with challenging holes and scenic views. The course features well-designed fairways, strategic water hazards, and immaculate greens that have earned it an impressive 4.8 rating. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy a round while appreciating the natural beauty and professional atmosphere of this top-rated facility.
4. Lake Maria State Park
WILDERNESS HIKING AND CAMPING
Lake Maria State Park offers visitors a genuine wilderness experience with its hardwood forest, rolling hills, and secluded lakes just a short drive from Clear Lake. Hikers can explore more than 14 miles of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems including maple-basswood forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife. The park also provides rustic campsites, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird watching, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
5. Munsinger Gardens
RIVERSIDE FLORAL PARADISE
Munsinger Gardens showcases a stunning collection of flowers and plants along the banks of the Mississippi River near Clear Lake. Visitors can wander through winding paths surrounded by vibrant seasonal blooms, ornamental trees, and decorative fountains in this meticulously maintained public garden. The peaceful riverside setting and exceptional landscaping make it a favorite spot for photography, relaxation, and appreciating horticultural artistry throughout the growing season.
6. Clear Lake Scientific and Nature Area
WILD AND SCENIC RIVERFRONT
Clear Lake Scientific and Nature Area holds the distinction of being the first land parcel acquired under Minnesota's Wild and Scenic Rivers Program, featuring .65 miles of shoreline on the Mississippi River. Visitors can explore oak woodlands, southern terrace forests, and encounter rare species like Hill's thistle and butternut while enjoying the natural river corridor. The area permits non-motorized access only, allowing canoeists to appreciate the undeveloped river ecosystem in its natural state.
7. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge
VAST WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge spans an impressive 30,700 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies just a short drive from Clear Lake. Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse wildlife including sandhill cranes, trumpeter swans, and white-tailed deer while exploring miles of hiking trails and auto tour routes. The refuge offers seasonal hunting, photography blinds, and educational programs that showcase Minnesota's natural heritage throughout the year.
8. Rush Lake
PEACEFUL LAKE GETAWAY
Rush Lake provides a serene water recreation destination where visitors can commune with nature and explore the great outdoors in Clear Lake. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in a tranquil setting away from crowds. Visitors can enjoy wandering the shoreline, spotting local birds, and experiencing the natural beauty of Minnesota's lake country.
9. Briggs Lake
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE RECREATION
Briggs Lake offers excellent recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy Minnesota's lake culture. Visitors can partake in swimming, boating, and fishing while enjoying the scenic surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. The lake's accessibility and amenities make it a popular destination for both day trips and longer stays in the Clear Lake area.
10. Elk Lake
PRISTINE FISHING DESTINATION
Elk Lake attracts fishing enthusiasts with its well-stocked waters and natural beauty in the Clear Lake region. Anglers can pursue various fish species while enjoying the tranquil surroundings and picturesque views. The lake's natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and peaceful relaxation throughout the seasons.
11. Territory Golf Club
SPECTACULAR GOLF EXPERIENCE
Territory Golf Club offers golfers a championship course experience within a short drive from Clear Lake. The course features dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkers, and pristine greens set among natural wetlands and rolling terrain. Golfers can enjoy quality amenities including a clubhouse with dining options and professional services in a beautiful natural setting.
12. Quarry Park and Nature Preserve
HISTORIC QUARRIES AND TRAILS
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve transforms former granite quarries into a unique recreational area featuring swimming holes, rock climbing opportunities, and extensive hiking trails. Visitors can explore over 20 abandoned quarries, some filled with crystal-clear water perfect for summer swimming, while learning about the region's granite mining history. The 684-acre park also showcases diverse habitats including prairie, woodland, and wetland ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife.
13. Albion Ridges Golf Course
SCENIC COUNTRY GOLFING
Albion Ridges Golf Course provides a scenic golfing experience through rolling hills and mature forests near Clear Lake. Golfers can test their skills on challenging holes designed to incorporate natural landscape features and strategic hazards. The well-maintained facilities and beautiful surroundings make this a popular destination for golf enthusiasts seeking quality play in a peaceful country setting.
14. Mississippi River Water Trail
HISTORIC RIVER ADVENTURE ROUTE
The Mississippi River Water Trail offers paddlers a chance to navigate America's most iconic river as it flows past Clear Lake along a section designated as a Minnesota Wild and Scenic River. Adventurers can explore island-dotted waters flanked by 50-100 foot bluffs and large expanses of undeveloped forest that preserve the river's natural character. The water trail provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and experiencing the historical significance of this major waterway that has shaped the region's development.
15. Albertville Premium Outlets
DESIGNER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Albertville Premium Outlets features an extensive collection of designer and name-brand stores offering significant discounts on retail prices near Clear Lake. Shoppers can browse over 100 outlets ranging from fashion and accessories to home goods and specialty items all in one convenient location. The shopping center provides amenities including dining options, comfortable rest areas, and seasonal events that enhance the shopping experience for visitors throughout the year.