Flandrau State Park

This is not your average state park. Over the years, we have hiked here several times and never been disappointed by the beauty. You can find Flandrau State Park tucked into a random neighborhood in the middle of New Ulm. Before driving in, you wouldn’t expect all that it has to offer. Last week, a friend invited us to swim in the sand-bottom swimming pond at Flandrau and I was excited to finally go swimming here! It had been closed for two years and we didn’t try it out last summer. As we drove into the park, we were pleasantly surpised to spot a mama deer and two babies tucked into the woods as we drove by. We arrived right at 11 am to a fairly empty beach. My kids loved playing in the sand, swimming, and diving throughout our three hours there. There were three lifeguards on duty and we had a large chunk of water all to ourselves for the majority of our time. Water was very clean and so was the beach area. Swimming at this state park is definitely worth it, as it’s free as long as you have a state park pass.

A naturalist was up near the beach house and had several pelts of different animals for the kids to touch. My oldest child enjoyed doing an animal tracks matching worksheet. The naturalist was full of information and fun for the kids to listen to. She also, mentioned that there was a new junior ranger booklet that could be picked up in the park office. We picked one up on our way out for our two older kids to complete. When they complete it, they can get a Junior Ranger patch. This is available at Minnesota state parks.

We stayed and swam for three hours that day. Needless to say, all three of our kids would have easily continued swimming and playing longer if we had allowed them to. Between breaks, we ate lunch, had snacks, and played in the sand. There were showers and bathrooms inside the beach house that allowed for easier clean up. As we were walking out, we were shocked to find their playground had been replaced by a nature playground. My kids love these as their imagination always takes off and no time at the playground is ever the same. This particular new nature playground even had a fun boat for imaginative play and a house where I knew my middle child would love to play kitchen.

We enjoyed our time so much here that we came swimming again this week too. Again, we were met with a fairly empty swimming pond, water that was clean and felt wonderful in the heat, and a clean beach. This time, we did spend a little time playing at the park and the kids loved it! Their favorite part was definitely the boat.

Overall, if you live near New Ulm, want a unique day trip, or love to visit the state parks, I’d highly recommend giving Flandrau a shot! Not only is this a great location for kids of all ages with hiking, swimming, and playing, but it’s also a great location for adults. The park is truly beautiful in all seasons. We have visited in fall, summer, and spring and always loved the beauty of the park. With the swimming pond, it’s a definite must-visit! Come experience it!