This picturesque region in west central Minnesota is splashed with colorful scenery, crystal clear lakes, patchwork-quilted farmlands and rolling wooded hills. All four seasons showcase something special for visitors of all ages.
Recreational activities are plentiful with our many lakes and parks. Visitors to the area enjoy boating, fishing, canoeing, skiing, golfing, hiking, swimming, camping, snowmobiling and much more.
Each trip to this area can provide a rewarding historic journey by visiting museums, fine arts or historic sites.
If it’s shopping opportunities that pique your interest, you can choose from specialty, antique or cultural shops. Restaurants of all types can also be found throughout the county.
This guide will assist you in learning about the Willmar Lakes Area and give you more reasons than ever to make your visit both pleasurable and memorable.
We hope you enjoy your visit and please share your photos and experiences with us by using #willmarlakesarea.
Cover photo taken by Linda Fostervold
photo credit: Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort
photo credit: Katia Thompson
@kristadowdey
Spring
ACTIVITIES
Spring is a happy time as we start to notice the days getting longer, the temperatures warming and peaks of new life in nature. There’s just something about spring that brings about that bit of extra energy to accomplish things you didn’t get done over winter and possibly the much-needed break away from the regular routine during spring break.
FAVORITE OUTDOOR
ACTIVITIES:
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Fishing (walleye opener)
• Biking/Hiking
• Horseback riding
• Bird watching
SPRING EVENTS NOT TO MISS:
• Annual Novice Bonspiel
• Home & Outdoor Living Expo
• Earth Day Celebration
• Syttende Mai Celebration
• Memorial Day/Law Day 5K
photo credit: Don Olson
photo credit: Candace Hensley
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Sydney Fischer
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
ACTIVITIES Summer
For some, summer is the all-time favorite season with long summer days full of sunshine and warmth. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face. The kids are out of school; the lakes are open and waiting for the many recreational activities in or on the waters. Nature is back to full color with the sounds of active birds and other wildlife.
FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:
• Swimming
• Paddle boarding
• Boating
• Biking
• Horseback riding
• Golf/Mini golf
• Other summer sports
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Camping
• Disc golf
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
WAYS TO STAY COOL:
• Cool off in the lakes
• Enjoy area splash pads
• Visit Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center
• Experience Big Kahuna Fun Park
• Treat yourself to some ice cream
• Enjoy a cold beverage
SUMMER EVENTS
NOT TO MISS:
• Willmar Stingers Baseball
• Little Crow Ski Shows
• Porchfest
• Studio Hop
• Rockin’ Robbins
• Green Lake Triathlon
• Kandiyohi County Fair
• Antique Car Run
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
@alilorae
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Beth Fischer
Fun Fall ACTIVITIES
If you ask me, fall is the best time to visit our area. The temperatures have cooled and nature is starting to show off its radiant colors throughout the county. Fall also brings many fun events that can be enjoyed by all.
FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES:
• Leaf peeping
• Hiking
• Camping
• Kayaking
• Football
• Deer/pheasant hunting
• Bird Watching
• Biking
• Fishing
• Canoeing
• Other fall sports
photo
@sunshine_in_mn
photo credit: Beth Fischer
@pammerjean
FALL EVENTS NOT TO MISS
• Atwater Threshing Days
• Prairie Pothole Day
• Raymond Harvest Festival
• Foxtoberfest at Foxhole Brewhouse
• Oktoberfest at Goat Ridge Brewing Co.
• Atwater Oktoberfest
• Holmstrom Haunt
• Where the Madness Dwells Haunted House
• Veterans Day Observance and Display
photo credit: Mike Branch Photography
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Greg Harp
Winter ACTIVITIES
The winter season is a time for fun in the Willmar Lakes Area. When the snow arrives, visitors can enjoy miles and miles of snowmobile trails along with fat tire bike, cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. Children and adults also like to go ice skating on the neighborhood rinks, play hockey or enjoy a couple of hours of sledding on the many hills in the area. We can’t forget about those anglers that are just waiting for the ice to be thick enough on area lakes to go ice fishing. At first you may shudder at the thought of enjoying the outdoors in the freezing temperatures, but with the right winter gear, you’ll be able to stay warm and enjoy the many outdoor activities that winter creates.
photo credit: Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center
photo credit: Bailey Hovland
photo credit: Linda K Fostervold
FAVORITE ACTIVITIES:
• Sledding
• Snowshoeing
• Fat tire biking
• Ice Skating
• Ice Fishing
WAYS TO STAY COZY:
• Kicksledding
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowmobiling
• Hockey
• Curling
• Read a book by the fire with your favorite hot beverage
• Enjoy a show or production
• Book a retreat at Green Lake Lutheran Ministries
• Visit the Kandiyohi County Historical Museum
• Peruse the many art studios
• Enjoy a flight of craft beer
WINTER EVENTS NOT TO MISS:
• Willmar WarHawks Hockey
• Holidaze Parade
• Celebrate the Light of the World Christmas Display
• GLLM Annual Dinner Theater
• Atwater Passport to Christmas
• Spicer Winterfest
• Winter Fun Day
• Annual Polar Plunge
photo credit: Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center
photo credit: Linda Eisenreich
photo credit: Jayme Sczublewski
photo credit: John Kellen
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Greg Harp
@minnesotayogini
photo credit: Mr. B’s Chocolates
photo credit: Little Crow Ski Team
photo credit: Tanya Rosenau
photo credit: The Village Children’s Museum
photo credit: Dennis Benson
photo credit: Jayme Sczublewski
photo credit: Jerry Fischer
Must See Attractions
A. SIBLEY STATE PARK
One of Minnesota’s top 20 attractions, Sibley State Park is the perfect place for experiencing “Nature at its Best.” Pack a lunch and take a hike through the many beautiful trails and make your way to the top of Mount Tom. You can also enjoy swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in Lake Andrew.
B. PRAIRIE WOODS ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER (PWELC)
PWELC is a regional center for environmental education, outdoor recreation and team building for people of all ages. Everyone can enjoy 500 acres full of self-guided trails through prairie, woods and wetlands. Rentals are available to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, fat tire biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and kick sledding.
C. GLACIAL LAKES STATE TRAIL
Experience the beauty of rolling hills, prairies, wetlands and farmland along this 22-mile trail. Built on the old Burlington Northern Railroad bed, it is paved for biking, rollerblading and hiking. An adjacent path is available for horseback riding and the entire trail is available for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
D. WILLMAR DESTINATION PLAYGROUND
The Willmar Destination Playground is one of the nation’s largest fully accessible playgrounds, measuring over 19,000 square feet. Nestled into the grassy oak hills of Robbins Island Regional Park, the Willmar Destination Playground has a variety of play structures all on a soft rubbery flooring. The fully enclosed and accessible playground offers a safe and fun place for children of all ages and abilities to play and interact.
E.
MR. B’S CHOCOLATES
No one can visit the Willmar Lakes Area without stopping at the most delicious chocolate store in West Central Minnesota! In addition to all your nostalgic favorites – truffles, caramels, fruit creams, and the like – Mr. B’s chocolatiers hand paint few-of-a-kind masterpieces that go from small farm animals, dinosaurs, and roses all the way to the intercut champagne bottles, Thanksgiving turkeys and three-dimensional Christmas trees!
F. LITTLE CROW SKI SHOW
Make sure to include a Friday night during your next summer visit so that you can enjoy the Little Crow Water Ski Team as they show off their water-skiing talent that you can’t easily find anywhere else in the world. While attending the Little Crow Ski show, you will see top quality skiers perform pyramids, jumping, barefooting, ballet lines, and more.
G. DOROTHY OLSON AQUATIC CENTER
Need to cool off? Then head over to the Dorothy Olson Aquatic Center (DOAC) for an afternoon of splish-splashing fun! The DOAC offers guests of all ages a number of entertainment options including two raging waterslides, a sixlane recreation pool, two poolside climbing walls, and a mini slide surrounded by a zero-depth entry play pool.
H. BIG KAHUNA FUN PARK
Nestled near Green Lake in the heart of Spicer, Big Kahuna Fun Park offers two go-kart tracks, Wet & Wild bumper boats with squirt guns (bring your swimsuit and towel), a large 18-hole premier mini-golf course and Dune Racers for the younger kids. Inside, you’ll find an arcade with redemption prizes, delicious ice cream, and Godfather’s Pizza Express.
I. KANDIYOHI COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM
History lovers will enjoy the unique history of Kandiyohi County! The museum complex consists of six buildings: the main museum and research library, District #18 Schoolhouse, Engine #2523, Sperry House, Grandpa’s Shed and an agriculture building all with their own piece of history to tell.
J. THE VILLAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Travelling with kids while in the area? Then make sure to stop at The Village Children’s Museum! This indoor play space is dedicated to bringing play and learning to the cultural diversity of West Central Minnesota. Children will enjoy the wide variety of exhibits that’ll keep them engaged for hours all while learning and growing.
K. WILLMAR STINGERS
The Willmar Stingers are part of the Northwoods Baseball League and play their home games at Bill Taunton Stadium in Willmar. Enjoy great stadium food and drinks while watching some exciting baseball action during the summer. Fans also look forward to being greeted by a seven-foot bear named Barry as they enter Bill Taunton Stadium each and every summer.
L. SHOPPING DISTRICT OF NEW LONDON
The Shopping District of New London is a unique attraction on its own with the variety of boutiques and shops, there’s definitely something for everyone when exploring the shops. Whether you’re looking for quilting material, unique and fashionable clothing options, toys and games, gourmet popcorn and sweet treats, home decor and kitchen items, you’ll find it all in the Shopping District of New London.
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE ATTRACTIONS IN THE WILLMAR LAKES AREA
Things To Do
AREA ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Artsy Fartsy LLC
1025 19th Ave. SW, Suite 1 / Willmar (320) 905-1806
greenwater garage + gallery 101 Main St. S / New London www.greenwatergarage.com
Little Theatre Auditorium
24 Central Ave. E / New London (320) 557-5584 www.littletheatreauditorium.org
New London-Spicer Performing Arts Center
101 4th Ave. SW / New London (320) 354-2252
Prairie Winds Concert Band www.prairiewindsconcertband.com
221 South St. W / Spicer (320) 403-2473 www.greenlakebmx.com
Grind Central Skate Park Willmar Ave. SW & 22nd St. SW Willmar / (320) 235-1454
KRA Speedway
At the Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds 801 7th St. NW / Willmar (320) 905-9280 www.kraspeedway.com
Willmar Stingers
(Northwoods Baseball League)
Baker Field at Bill Taunton Stadium 1401 SW 22nd St. / Willmar (320) 222-2010 www.willmarstingers.com
Willmar WarHawks (North American Hockey League) Willmar Civic Center 2707 Arena Drive / Willmar www.willmarwarhawks.com
photo credit: Alley on Ash
photo credit: Spicer Cinema
photo credit: Dennis Benson
Travel back in time
So often, we focus on the here and now. We want to try all the newest things — new restaurants, stores, and events. Because we are always looking forward, we often forget that looking back can be just as much fun. The Willmar Lakes Area has a rich history and exploring the area’s past can give you a whole new appreciation for how the communities have grown over the years. Fortunately, the Willmar Lakes Area has plenty of museums that highlight the unique history of the area, from Native American tribes to rural life on the plains to the industrial ages of trucks, trains, and tractors.
Here are a few of the museums you should visit on your next trip to the Willmar Lakes Area: Kandiyohi County Historical Society & Museum, Atwater Historical Society and Museum, and Schwanke’s Car, Tractor and Truck Museum.
For a map of all the historical sites in Kandiyohi County, please visit the Kandiyohi County Historical Society.
MUSEUMS
Atwater Area Historical Society and Museum
500 Pleasant Ave. W / Atwater (320) 974-1074
Open by appointment
Kandiyohi County Historical Society and Museum
610 Hwy. 71 NE / Willmar (320) 235-1881 www.kandiyohicountyhistory.com
Locomotive 2523
On display at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society
610 Hwy. 71 NE / Willmar (320) 235-1881
Memorial Room in the Willmar City Auditorium
313 6th St. SW / Willmar (320) 235-1454 / www.willmarmn.gov
Norway Lake Log Church 9601 195th Ave NW / Pennock (320) 366-3819
Raptor Ridge Museum
12050 County Road 40 NE / Spicer (320) 354-8820
Open by appointment
Schwanke’s Museum (May-Sept)
3310 South 1st St. / Willmar (320) 235-4341 www.schwanketractor.com/museum
Sperry House
610 Hwy. 71 NE / Willmar (320) 235-1881 www.kandiyohicountyhistory.com
The Village Children’s Museum
1312 SE Lakeland Drive / Willmar (320) 262-3057 www.willmarvillage.com
photo credit: Dani Steffen
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Schwanke’s Museum
SPECIALTY SHOPS & BOUTIQUES
A Novel Idea Book Shop
309 Lakeland Drive SE / Willmar
Ali J Boutique
61 Main St. S, Ste 4 / New London (320) 212-3917 www.alijboutique.com
Antiques on 1st 1807 South 1st St. / Willmar
Apol’s Harley-Davidson of Raymond 102 Cofield St. S / Raymond (320) 967-4511 www.apols.com
Atwater Gift Shop and Massage by Sherry
103 3rd St. N / Atwater (320) 894-1558
Bargains & Blessings Thrift Store
601 Industrial Dr. / Willmar (320) 235-1213 facebook.com/bargainsnblessings
Bell Tower Antiques
193 Hwy. 23 N / Spicer (320) 796-5515
Camille’s Closet
11 Main St. N / New London (320) 347-1065
Chosen
601 Industrial Dr. / Willmar (320) 235-1213 facebook.com/chosenwillmar
Community Revival Boutique & Thrift
15 Main St. S / New London (320) 347-1047 facebook.com/communityrevivalthrift
Dragonfly Boutique 205 Manitoba Street / Spicer www.dragonflyjoy.com
Fat Freddy’s Music
1611 15th St. SE / Willmar (320) 235-6820 www.facebook.com/fatfreddysmusic
Flyleaf Book Shop
32 Main St. N / New London (651) 334-9692 www.flyleafbookshop.com
Glow by J. Boutique
1605 South 1st St. / Willmar (320) 403-5112 www.glowbyj.shop
K & Co. Boutique & Gifts
15 Main St. S Suite #4 / New London (320) 347-1071 www.kandcompanynewlondon.com
Kultur Hus
211 Front St. / Sunburg (320) 366-3966 www.kulturhus.net
L & J Antiques
614 Benson Ave. SW / Willmar (320) 231-3748
Late Bloomers Floral & Gift
1303 South 1st St., Suite 8 / Willmar (320) 235-4940 www.willmarflowers.com
Lotus on Burlington
201 4th Street SW / Willmar (320) 212-3009
Lucky Duck
24 Main Street N / New London (320) 347-1137 www.luckyduckmn.com
Mainstream Boutique 2211 South 1st St / Willmar mainstreamboutique.com
Mill Pond Peddler 9 Main St N / New London (320) 347-1065
Mr. B’s Chocolates
1707 Technology Drive, Suite 101 Willmar / (320) 235-1313 www.mrbchocolates.com
New To You Thrift Store
1401 South 1st St / Willmar (320) 231-1850 facebook.com/n2yts
Paisley Threads 14 Main St. S / New London (320) 347-1111 www.paisleythreads.com
Primrose Boutique 602 S 1st St, Suite 2 / Willmar shopprimroseboutique.com
Shoppe 14 1605 South 1st St. / Willmar www.facebook.com/shoppe14
Goat Ridge Brewing Co. 17 Central Ave. W / New London (320) 354-2383 www.goatridgebrewing.com
Intuition Brewing
313 4th St. SW / Willmar (320) 262-3429 intuitionbrewing.wordpress.com
photo credit: Alison Werder
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
Prairie Woods
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING
CENTER
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center is a regional center for environmental education and outdoor recreation. They provide an exciting array of hands-on learning adventures for all ages, as well as beautiful facilities for meetings and special events.
Call ahead to make reservations for program activities, facility use, and equipment rental.
CHALLENGE COURSE
Welcome to our high adventure learning laboratory! Prairie Woods’ challenge course includes:
• A 40 foot tall three-sided outdoor climbing tower
• Two Giant Ladders
• Two Flying Squirrels
• An indoor climbing wall
• Initiative games
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
Environmental programs combine guided exploration, classroom activities, outdoor recreation and communitybuilding to provide the best possible learning experience. Programs are presented in ways kids learn best: with engaging, interdisciplinary activities, in small groups.
GARY WESTBY SHOOTING RANGE
The Gary Westby Educational Shooting Sports range offers opportunities for sportsmen, sportswomen and youth. The Range consists of a five-stand sporting clays range and a ten-bench .22 smallbore rifle range.
TRAILS
Prairie Woods maintains approximately 10km of trails over rolling glacial terrain, through woods and prairies, near ponds and wetlands. The trail network covers much of PWELC’s 500 acres. They also have 4.5 miles of mountain bike trails.
EQUIPMENT RENTALS AVAILABLE
Enjoy an afternoon or a whole day of kayaking, fat tire biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, or kicksledding by reserving equipment through Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center. Equipment rentals will be done on a reservation basis. Please call at least 24 hours in advance. If you would like equipment reserved for the weekend, call by Noon on Friday.
12718 10th St NE | Spicer, MN 56288 (320) 354-5894
www.prairiewoodselc.org
@prairiewoodselc
Fischer
photo credit: Jesse Garcia
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
An amazing all season destination to enjoy the outdoors
Sibley STATE PARK
Sibley State Park is a favorite stop for visitors to Kandiyohi County. Boasting 2,936 acres of forests, hills, lakes and trails, the park offers recreation opportunities for all outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, fishing and canoeing on Lake Andrew.
Rentals – Paddleboard, kayak and canoe rentals are available from Memorial weekend through Labor Day at the Sibley Beach Store. Snowshoes are available in the winter months at the Park Office. Rentals are first come first serve.
Open Daily 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
800 Sibley Park Road Northeast New London | (320) 354-2055 email: sibley.statepark@state.mn.us www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/sibley
photo credit: Sibley State Park
photo credit: Beth Fischer
@minnesotayogini
Events
The Willmar Lakes Area is home to a wide variety of events and annual festivals. Visit our Events calendar at www.willmarlakesarea.com to find the most up to date information on events taking place in our area.
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE EVENTS IN THE WILLMAR LAKES AREA
photo credit: Dennis Benson
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Greg Christianson
photo credit: Linda Fostervold
photo credit: Dennis Benson
Atwater Threshing Days | Atwater
Mayor’s Bike Ride – Glacial Lakes State Trail | New London, Spicer & Willmar
photo credit: Linda Fostervold
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Lnda Fostervold
photo credit: Dennis Benson
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Greg Harp
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR A COMPLETE PARK DIRECTORY
Willmar Destination PlaygroundatRobbinsIsland
Willmar Destination Playground at Robbins Island Regional Park | Willmar
Centennial Park Splash Pad | Atwater
Miller Park | Willmar
photo credit: Karen Kaufenberg
@AtwaterSplashPad
photo credit: Tanya Rosenau
photo credit: Tanya Rosenau
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Sydney Fischer
photo credit: City of Willmar
photo credit: Lacey Larson
photo credit: City of WIllmar
Trail Fever
BIKE TRAILS
Scenic pathways make our area a destination for biking enthusiasts. Short and long trails intersect to make miles of riding fun. Some of our favorite biking trails include the Glacial Lakes State Trail, the Eagle Lake Trail, Robbins Island trails and the beautiful road route around Green Lake. Bring your bike and explore the Willmar Lakes Area or participate in one of our area’s biking events. Don’t have a bike? Rent one from one of eleven BikeWillmar bike share hubs. (see page 14)
GLACIAL LAKES STATE TRAIL
The Glacial Lakes State Trail is located on a former Burlington Northern Railroad grade and is generally level and wheelchair accessible. The trail is paved and connects the cities of Willmar, Spicer, New London and Hawick. It continues beyond the Kandiyohi/Stearns County line. The segment from Willmar to New London also has ten miles of a parallel grass treadway for horseback riding, while the New London to Kandiyohi/ Stearns County line segment has grass shoulders to accommodate this activity.
The Glacial Lakes State Trail connects to Sibley State Park via three miles of paved shoulder along County Road 148 West of New London. The trail also connects with many miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the Kandiyohi County trail system. Maps of the Willmar Lakes Area trails can be found at the Convention & Visitors Bureau office in Willmar, at several travel information racks throughout Kandiyohi County and also on our website at www.willmarlakesarea.com.
photo credit: Ryan Nelson
photo credit: David Feist
@alilorae
photo credit: Sarah Fosso
photo credit: Beth Fischer
GLACIAL RIDGE SCENIC BYWAY
The Glacial Ridge Trail offers something for everyone, whether their interests are historical, cultural, recreational or a simple scenic drive. It offers access to West Central Minnesota’s abundant natural resources, while offering modern, convenient travel accommodations. Stop by some of the historical sites found in the Willmar Lakes Area like the Guri Endreson Cabin, Old Log Church and the Kandiyohi County Historical Museum.
The Glacial Ridge Trail passes by some of our local lakes and connects with the Glacial Lakes State Trail and Sibley State Park. You can create your own adventure on the Glacial Ridge Scenic Byway website at www.glacialridgebyway.com.
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
Water Trails
Bring your kayaks or canoes during your next visit to Kandiyohi County and experience the abundant paddling opportunities on our lakes and the Crow River.
Water trail maps are available online at www.willmarlakesarea.com or at the Willmar Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau office on East Highway 12 in Willmar.
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
@the.wandering.sunflower
photo credit: Linda Fostervold
Fishing
Fishing is a great opportunity for recreation in Kandiyohi County for the entire family. With over 300 lakes, ponds, streams and the Crow River, the opportunities for angling enthusiasts are nearly endless.
In winter, whole communities of ice houses appear across our many lakes. The camaraderie they create helps the hardy ice anglers push back against the cold of a long Minnesota winter.
Game fish found in Kandiyohi County Lakes
Our thanks to the Minnesota DNR for supplying us with information to reproduce the lake maps. For more information, visit their website at: www.dnr.state.mn.us.
(Sizes of lake maps are not proportionate to each other. Check acreage for lake size.)
Sunfish Crappie Largemouth Bass
Walleye Northern Pike
Smallmouth Bass
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Debbie Ardoff
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
BIG KANDIYOHI LAKE
Located 4 miles northwest of Lake Lillian with Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East on the northeast side and Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park West on the southwest side. There are public accesses and swimming beaches available in both county parks.
LAKE ANDREW
Located 6 miles west of New London with Sibley State Park bordering the north and northwest shore line areas. DNR public access sites are on the south and northwest side of the lake. Recently, walleye and northern pike are the most abundant game fish species. The public swimming beach is in Sibley State Park.
Nearest Town: New London
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 759
Maximum Depth (ft): 26
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye Camping: Sibley State Park
Nearest Town: Lake Lillian
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 2,683
Maximum Depth (ft): 18
Fish Species: Crappie, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye Camping:
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park West
Lakes
DIAMOND LAKE
LAKE CALHOUN
Located 7 miles east of Spicer with a DNR public access on the south shore. Calhoun is most popular as a northern pike fishery.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 647
Maximum Depth (ft): 13
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Located 4 miles northwest of Atwater with public access available at Diamond Lake County Park on the west shore and a small access on the east shore. Diamond Lake Resort is on the southeast shore of the lake. Anglers report good walleye fishing, especially in early winter.
Nearest Town: Atwater
Ramp Type(s): Concrete | Lake Area (acres): 1,610 | Maximum Depth (ft): 27
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye Camping & Resorts: Diamond Lake County Park
Diamond Lake Resort
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park West
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East
Sibley State Park
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Linda K Fostervold
EAGLE LAKE
Located 5 miles northeast of Willmar with a DNR public access on the southeast corner of the lake. A deep and popular recreational lake.
EAST SOLOMON LAKE
Located 3 miles northwest of Willmar on County Road 5 with DNR public access on the northeast side of the lake off of County Road 5. East Solomon Lake outlets to West Solomon with most of the shoreline comprised of undeveloped hardwoods.
Nearest Town: Willmar
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 849
Maximum Depth (ft): 67
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Nearest Town: Willmar
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 658
Maximum Depth (ft): 14
Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
LAKE ELIZABETH
Located 5 miles southwest of Atwater with a DNR public access on the northwest side of the lake. Hardwood trees and wetlands surround the shorelines with an aquatic management area along the south shore. Northern pike have been the most abundant fish in recent years.
GAMES LAKE
Located about 7 miles northwest of New London with public boating accesses located on the east side and in Games Lake County Park on the southeast side of the lake. A channel that is navigable to boat traffic exists between Games and Norway Lakes. Walleyes are stocked every other year but crappies and northern pike have been the most abundant catches in the last couple of years.
Nearest Town: Sunburg
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 521
Maximum Depth (ft): 42
Nearest Town: Atwater
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 1,023
Maximum Depth (ft): 9
Fish Species: Crappie, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye Camping: Games Lake County Park
NORWAY LAKE
Located 8 miles west of New London with two DNR public accesses. One access is located on the south shore of West Norway Lake, 1 mile east of County Road 1 and the other on the south shore of the main basin, 1 mile north of County Road 40. Norway Lake is a large moderately deep lake with three basins. Dilley’s RV Resort is located on the southeast side of the west basin.
Located 2 miles south of Spicer. The public access is located on the east shore off of a residential gravel road that ties into County Road 8. Elkhorn is a deep but small recreational lake with excellent water clarity of 20.75 feet. The lake is known for good largemouth bass and northern pike fishing.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 79
Maximum Depth (ft): 41
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
GEORGE LAKE
Located 3 miles west of Spicer with a public access off of County Road 32 on the north side of the lake. George Lake is a small, moderately deep lake with excellent water clarity. Largemouth bass, crappie, and northern pike have been abundant in the last couple of years.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 228
Maximum Depth (ft): 34
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
LAKE FLORIDA
The feeling of the north woods in central Minnesota, located 6 miles west of Spicer. Two public access sites are present on Florida with one boat ramp along the northside (DNR) and one shore fishing site on the west side. Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center is located near the southeast shoreline area. Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort is located on the east shore of the lake. Walleyes are stocked every other year in Lake Florida.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 705
Maximum Depth (ft): 40
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Resort: Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort
photo credit: Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort
photo credit: Tanya Rosenau
LAKE LILLIAN
Located directly north of the town of Lake Lillian with a public access on the northeast side, 1/4 mile west of County Road 4. (Note: Motor propelled watercraft prohibited on the lake during open waterfowl season, with the exception of up to a 30# trolling motor.)
LONG LAKE
Located 5 miles north of Willmar with two concrete DNR public accesses. One access is located on the northeast shore off County Road 27 and the other on the south side of the lake, north of County Road 25. Long Lake is a large shallow lake with hardwoods, grasslands, wetlands and some residential development. There are several bulrush islands with a large cormorant rookery on the large island.
Nearest Town: Willmar
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 1,568
Maximum Depth (ft): 16
Fish Species:
Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Nearest Town: Lake Lillian
Ramp Type(s): Concrete
Lake Area (acres): 1,151
Maximum Depth (ft): 8
Fish Species: Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
LONG LAKE NORTH
Located 3.5 miles northeast of New London with two public accesses. The township access is on the northeast end of the lake, south of State Highway 23. The concrete DNR access is on the northwest shore south of State Highway 23. Long Lake is a small but fairly deep lake with two resorts/campgrounds. Hide-Away Campground is on the southwest shore and Old Wagon Campground is on the north shore.
FOOT LAKE
Located in Willmar with Robbins Island Regional Park on the east side. Foot Lake is connected to Willmar Lake by an upstream channel. The Foot Lake outlet is considered the headwaters of Hawk Creek. Public boat access is located along the south shore of the Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds and also at Robbins Island.
Nearest Town: Willmar
Ramp Type(s): Concrete, Unknown Lake Area (acres): 503
Maximum Depth (ft): 24
Fish Species: Crappie, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Nearest Town: New London
Ramp Type(s): Gravel, Concrete Lake Area (acres): 325
Maximum Depth (ft): 46
Fish Species: Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye Camping:
Hide-Away Campground Old Wagon Campground
WILLMAR LAKE
Located in Willmar with Eagle Creek Golf Course bordering the north shore of the lake and Robbins Island Regional Park on the south shore. Access is on the south side of the lake from Robbins Island.
Nearest Town: Willmar
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 636
Maximum Depth (ft): 14
Fish Species: Crappie, Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
Robbins Island Regional Park
photo credit: Greg Harp
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Diamond Lake Resort
NEST LAKE
Located 2 miles north of Spicer with 2 public accesses. One access is on the east side of the lake off of State Highway 23 and the other is on the west side of the lake off of County Road 9. The lake’s major inlet is where the Crow River enters along the north shore and the outlet drains into Green Lake at the Olde Mill Inn dam. Island View Resort is on the south shore of the lake. Smallmouth bass, crappies, walleyes and
northern pike numbers are currently high in this lake.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 969
Maximum Depth (ft): 40
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye Camping & Resort: Island View Resort Lighthouse at Spicer
Island View Resort Lighthouse
photo credit: Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
GREEN LAKE
Located in Spicer with 5 public accesses. Green Lake is a large and deep lake with good water clarity. Green Lake is known for its recreational opportunities during the summer months with Saulsbury Beach in Spicer being a very popular public swimming area. Green Lake County Park is located on the northeast corner of the lake. Green Lake Bible Camp is on the southwest side of the lake.
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 5,569
Maximum Depth (ft): 110
Fish Species: Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, Walleye Camping & Lodging: Green Lake County Park
Hampton Inn
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Spicer
RINGO LAKE
Located 2.5 miles west of Spicer with a boat access off the northwest corner on County Road 29 and a shore angling access off of Highway 71. The shore access includes parking, a black top trail and granite platforms for shore anglers.
Inn
Green Lake Saulsbury Beach County Park
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Spicer
Nearest Town: Spicer
Ramp Type(s): Concrete Lake Area (acres): 734
Maximum Depth (ft): 10
Fish Species: Northern Pike, Sunfish, Walleye
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
photo credit: Sarah Zimmerman
Camping
County Park reservations can be made online at https://www.kcmn.us/departments/county_parks/reservations.php Visit www.willmarlakesarea.com for a complete amenities listing.
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East
(May-Sept.) Big Kandiyohi Lake 9144 123rd Ave. SE
Lake Lillian, MN 56253
countypark.bigkandieast@kcmn.us (320) 664-4707
Number of Sites: 80
Seasonal Rates Available
Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park West
(May-Sept.) Big Kandiyohi Lake 14391 45th St. SE
Lake Lillian, MN 56253
countypark.bigkandiwest@kcmn.us (320) 995-6599
Number of Sites: 94
Seasonal Rates Available
Diamond Lake County Park
(May - Sept.) Diamond Lake 6903 County Rd. 4 NE Kandiyohi, MN 56251 countypark.diamond@kcmn.us (320) 974-8520
(May 1 - Sept. 30) Nest Lake 5910 132nd Ave. NE Spicer, MN 56288 www.islandviewnestlake.com vacation@islandviewnestlake.com (507) 276-9783
Number of Units: 13
Dickerson’s Lake Florida Resort (May-Oct.) Lake Florida 13194 2nd St. NE Spicer, MN 56288 www.dickersonsresort.com dickersonsresort@tds.net (320) 354-4272
Number of Units: 13
Share Your Photos
Uniquely Local Restaurants
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR A COMPLETE DINING DIRECTORY
Frieda’s Cafe | Willmar
Jake’sPizza |Willmar
Spurs Bar & Grill | Willmar
Zorbaz On Green Lake | Spicer
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Bailey Hovland
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Willmar Lakes Area CVB
photo credit: McMilan’s Restaurant
photo credit: Beth Fischer
photo credit: Beth Fischer
Communities
The Willmar Lakes Area has several towns scattered throughout the lakes, rolling hills and farmland of Kandiyohi County. Our area is home to over 300 lakes, a thriving art scene, historical attractions, exceptional school districts, a growing job market, and friendly communities. With a beautiful blend of many cultures and faiths, Kandiyohi County cultivates a unique environment with plenty of diverse shopping and dining options as well as a variety of events and festivals. See for yourself why Kandiyohi County is a great place to live, work and play. For more information about Kandiyohi County and our communities’ employers, education, places to worship, child care, real estate, healthcare, local businesses and more visit: www.willmarlakesarea.com | www.kandiyohi.com www.willmarareachamber.com | www.kcmn.us
