Lake Maria State Park, Monticello MN

Lake Maria State Park is a heavily wooded over 1500 acre park located near Monticello MN. It is one of the few remaining remnants of the historic “Big Woods” that used to cover 3000 square miles of Minnesota.

When visiting in fall, the drive into the park under the stunning canopy of Maple and Oak trees is breathtaking. Most of the trails are unpaved and hilly, and all very scenic. They range from a 2 mile loop to a 5.5 mile loop. There is a visitor center near the parking lot with restrooms. Lake Maria Summer Trail Map. You can fish on one of the small lakes and they also provide kayak and canoe rental.

All camping facilities in the park are pack-in with a 1/2 to 1 mile hike . There are 17 rustic campsites overlooking lakes or ponds and 3 rustic camper cabins with wood stoves for heat but no electricity.