The Breathtaking Small Town Park in Minnesota That We Can’t Stop Thinking About

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we are lucky to have many, many, charming small towns. And these towns often have at least one park. And because we Minnesotans love our green spaces, many communities can boast two or more. These small town parks in Minnesota range from grassy squares with a tree or two, a picnic table, and perhaps some playground equipment to recreation-oriented parks full of fields and facilities to elaborate, forested preserves with rushing creeks and hiking trails - and everything in between.

Why Dunton Locks County Park Feels Like a Hidden Escape in Detroit Lakes

There are plenty of Minnesota towns near state parks that offer the best of both worlds: a chance to escape into nature and still benefit from city life, like Isle and Luverne. Both have state parks right at their doorsteps. Others are home to wonderful city or county parks. Detroit Lakes falls into the latter category, boasting a huge, lakefront city park with a beach and plenty of amenities, as well as the incredible Dunton Locks County Park, which is one of my favorite small-town parks in Minnesota.

You'll find Dunton Locks County Park on the western edge of Detroit Lakes, spanning 53 acres along the shores of Muskrat and Sallie Lakes. Not only is the park accessible by car, but it’s also accessible by bicycle or on foot via the Fish Hatchery Recreation Trail on West Shore Drive near the Pelican River. No matter how you arrive, you’ll find yourself in love with this quiet little lakefront park.

What To Expect Along the Trails at Dunton Locks County Park

With several miles of trails, ranging from easy to moderately challenging, the park is ideal for hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing (in winter, of course). There's even a section of the Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail in the park. It's also rumored to be home to one of Thomas Dambo's famous trolls.

Best Times of Year To Visit This Scenic Minnesota Park

In warmer months, fishing, paddling, and camping are popular activities at Dunton Lakes. There are also picnic shelters and other amenities for the family to enjoy. The park is open year-round, and its lovely landscape is stunning in all seasons - yes, even during winter. I promise. Those hiking and biking trails turn into cross-country ski trails in the winter, because we all know a little snow isn't going to stop a true Minnesotan from an outdoor adventure.

Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit Dunton Locks County Park. The two shelters offer electrical outlets, grills, and plenty of seating, and they're perfect for birthdays, celebrations, reunions, and even weddings. Check the Dunton Locks County Park website for information on reserving a shelter for your event.

Next time you're in the Detroit Lakes area - whether chasing trolls or just visiting Lake Country - be sure to save some time to explore Dunton Locks County Park... you'll be glad you did. Visit the Becker County Parks Department for more information about this small town park in Minnesota.

Check out AllTrails Plus for some additional hiking suggestions at the park. And if you'll need a place to stay, you won't find a better location than Best Western Premiere: The Lodge on Lake Detroit. As its name implies, it's right on the lake, and it's one of our favorite resorts in the area.

You could spend a lifetime exploring all of the small town parks in Minnesota. They’re a bit like snowflakes: no two are ever the same. You’ll find endless small towns with state parks and community parks that are downright delightful for a Minnesota summer day trip. Take Isle, for example. There’s a beautiful state park in this tiny Minnesota town that’s worthy of a side quest or two.