fbpx
Rochester Local

Day Trip: Lake Byllesby Regional Park

lake byllesby regional park
Lake Byllesby Regional Park

 

Looking for something fun to do within one hour of Rochester? Look no further than Byllesby Regional Park. Located in Dakota County outside of Cannon Falls, Lake Byllesby has it all: 

A natural splash pad, beachfront entry, playground(s), restrooms, bike trails, camping, & canoe rental. Plan a day trip or make it a weekend getaway. Either way, your family is sure to have a blast!


Natural Splash Pad

Kids and adults alike love this nature-inspired splash pad.  While some splash pads use plastic and other bright materials that do not decompose, this splash pad is made entirely of elements you would find in nature.  Enjoy the cool water on the rocks or build a dam with rocks and pebbles from the beach.  Please note: No pets are allowed in the splash pad areas. 

 

Bylls 1
IMG_3091

Lake Byllesby Beach

Not only is there a splash pad at this park, there is also a swimming beach, outdoor showers, and volleyball courts beside the beach. This lake is tested regularly throughout the summer for E. coli. If you plan to swim, do so before July 1st when the algae blooms are more likely to build up in the lake. If you have not heard of green-blue algae before, check out this MN website for more information.

Restrooms

Right beside the beach front swim area are restrooms with toilets, sinks, and showers.  These toilets are cleaned regularly and provide a clean and safe environment with a convenient location. 

Playgrounds

There are several newly constructed playground structures within Lake Byllesby Regional Park. These play structures are nature-inspired and whimsical. Kids will play for hours between the playground, splash pad, and beach. Plus, since this park is midway between Rochester and the Twin Cities, it is a perfect spot to plan mid-way meetups with friends. 

unnamed
Bylls 3

 

Bike Trails

The bike trails near Lake Byllesby will provide your family with hours of fun. These trails connect to both Mill Towns State Trail and Cannon Valley Trail. Need to break for a picnic? There are spots along the trail with restrooms and picnic tables. 

Camping

Right beside the splash pad and beach is an extensive camping area for tents and campers alike. They also have on-site restrooms with showers, sinks, and toilets. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, book in advance as these spots fill up quickly. However, if you’re hoping to plan a last-minute weekday getaway, book now as there are lots of spots available midweek. 

The price for one campsite with electricity is $33 plus tax. The price increases to $37 for a campsite with both water & electricity. Book your campsite here!

Canoe Rentals

Canoes are available to rent during the summer season from the Campground Office. Canoe rentals range in price from $10 (one hour) to $35 (full day rental). The campground office is open from May 3rd to October 12th. The hours range from 10 AM -6:30 (Sunday – Thursday) and 9 AM – 6:30 PM (Friday – Saturday). 

 


 

Looking for more day trips and getaways? Check out our Guide to Day Trips and Field Trips

Related posts

Thanksgiving Takeout and Dining In and Around Rochester MN

Rochester Local

Rochester MN Guide to Gluten-Free and Specific Dietary Dining

Beth Sievers

Rochester MN Guide to Donuts

Rochester Local