Explore the beauty of Olmsted County's free parks this summer
Olmsted County's parks offer the perfect solution if you're looking for an affordable way to enjoy the great outdoors. With four stunning parks free to the public, there's no excuse not to immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Chester Woods Park, Lake Zumbro Park, Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, and Root River Park offer a variety of activities and natural attractions.
Chester Woods Park
Chester Woods Park is located at 8378 Highway 14 East in Eyota, at the headwaters of Bear Creek. It has approximately 15 miles of primitive trails winding through a variety of inviting natural habitats in the park's undeveloped areas. The park also boasts a swimming beach, boat launch, fishing pier and picnic areas.
The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners made entrance to Chester Woods Park free during the COVID-19 pandemic. They permanently removed the fee in March 2022 to make the park accessible to all visitors.
While entrance to Chester Woods Park is free, additional amenities are available for a fee. These include canoe and kayak rentals, picnic shelter reservations, and camping facilities. These can enhance your park experience, providing more ways to enjoy your day out.
Lake Zumbro Park
Lake Zumbro Park, at 4 Fisherman Drive NW, Oronoco, has a motorized boat launch, picnic areas, and fishing piers. It is ADA-accessible and provides everyone an opportunity to enjoy Lake Zumbro. Olmsted County Parks continues to enhance the park with additional green space and vegetation to accommodate visitors.
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo
Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo, at 5731 County Road 105 NW, Byron, is a natural resource-based park with miles of hiking trails and picnic areas. Its focal points are Zollman Zoo and the nature center. The zoo is home to over 30 species of native Minnesota animals. The nature center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that teach visitors about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
These activities are free, and can be enjoyed over a weekend by reserving a campsite at Oxbow Park for a fee.
Root River Park
Root River Park is located at 4012 80 St SE, Rochester. It offers a two-mile looped hiking trail that winds through the meadows and wooded hills along Root River, providing visitors with many views of the natural landscape.
Plan your visit
Olmsted County Parks provides visitors with entrance to outdoor spaces without spending a dime. These parks are perfect for a day trip or weekend adventure. Whether hiking, swimming, fishing, or visiting the zoo, Olmsted County's parks are the perfect destination for all ages.