Sculpted by ancient glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park contains a tamarack bog, marshes, woodland ponds, and lakes. A variety of recreational activities revolve around the lake. Clear and deep, Lake Carlos offers visitors a perfect setting for swimming, fishing, boating, camping, hiking and horseback riding. Check the park’s website for special events held throughout the year. Swimming beach during the summer (no lifeguards present).
Check out a Virtual 360 Tour of the area.
The park’s 1,231 acres lie within a hardwood transition zone between the prairies to the southwest and the coniferous forest to the northeast. The park’s glacial moraine topography is dotted with woodland ponds, marshes, wet meadows, and lakes cradled among the hills. Visitors can hike or ski from a tamarack bog to a maple-basswood stand, or from open grassland to forested ridges…all within minutes.
In the winter the park features 6 miles of groomed cross country ski trails, some winter hiking trails and snowshoeing paths. Rentals are available for snowshoes. The warming house is open 8am-10pm. Sledding hill available in the winter near the beach area. Ice fishing rentals also available, including a 2 person Clam ice house for use on Lake Carlos for $20 a day. Manual ice auger and fishing poles are available at no charge, but visitors must bring bait.
320-993-3750
2601 County Road 38 Northeast, Carlos, Minnesota 56319