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Minnesota
12

Minnesota State Parks

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Minnesota
Heartland Region
Lake Bronson State Park
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LAKE BRONSON STATE PARK
LAKE BRONSON STATE PARK
County Highway 28
Lake Bronson, Minnesota   56734

Phone: 218-754-2200
Toll Free: 888-646-6367
Reservations: 866-857-2757
Email: park email button icon
From the observation tower in the park, view the prairie and aspen-oak forests or watch for deer, sharp-tailed grouse, moose and sandhill cranes. The South Branch of the Two Rivers fills Lake Bronson. The lake, which is actually a reservoir, offers visitors swimming, fishing, boating, great camping, and a tranquil backdrop for the picnic grounds. For those who prefer a prairie experience, one of the campground areas allows camping on the prairie. Trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling provide visitors with great recreation choices.
Nature of the Area
The park is a fine example of a transition area between prairie and forest landscapes and supports a variety of wildlife from the prairie-dwelling upland sandpipers and sharptail grouse, to the spectacular moose. Lake Bronson is one of the few sizeable bodies of water in the area and provides the visitor with an excellent swimming beach, good fishing, and enjoyable canoeing and boating. In winter, snowmobilers, skiers and hikers enjoy the park's network of trails through varying vegetation and terrain.

Thousands of years ago, glacial lake Agassiz covered the northwest corner of the state and extended into North Dakota and Canada. It was formed by glacial ice that blocked drainage to the north. The landscape in Lake Bronson State Park was formed as a result of the forces of this glacial lake. As the ice blockage to the north melted, Lake Agassiz began to retreat in stages, creating a series of gravel ridges along a generally flat terrain. The ancient McCauleyville beach ridge that passes through the park was formed during the final stage of the lake's retreat from Minnesota. Streams in the area usually meander quietly except when passing over a former beach ridge where rapids may exist. In time, eroded notches formed in the beach ridge. One of these notches was used as the site for the dam which backed up the South Branch of the Two Rivers to form Lake Bronson.

Moose, deer and occasionally black bear can be observed on a trail hike. The park has a sizeable bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian population with deer and sharp-tailed grouse among the most abundant.
History of the Area
The fact that the town of Bronson was renamed Lake Bronson attests to the important role the park lake played in local history. When the region was without lakes, the drought of the 1930s caused wells to dry up in the area. Unable to sink deeper wells because of a layer of salt, it was thought the only solution for the future was to dam the South Fork Two River and create a sizeable artificial lake. Dam construction began in 1936. Next a combination water and observation tower, beach and bathhouse were built. The dam and facilities were then turned over to the state of Minnesota and in 1937, the area became Two Rivers State Park. The park was renamed Lake Bronson State Park in 1945.
Swimming
1. Lake Bronson State Park offers a designated swimming beach for visitors.
2. Lifeguards are not on duty, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is allowed during daylight hours only.
4. The lake's water quality is regularly monitored to ensure safety of swimmers.
5. No pets or glass containers are permitted in the swimming area for safety reasons.
6. The park also provides changing rooms and restrooms near the beach area.
7. There's ample parking available close to the beach access point.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, providing an excellent way to explore the lake's 3-mile shoreline. There is also a boat ramp on site for those who bring their own watercrafts. Motorized boats are allowed but must adhere to certain restrictions such as speed limits designed to maintain tranquility in the area.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing for Northern Pike, Walleye and Yellow Perch. Boat rentals are available for a day on the water.

The park's lake is stocked with Rainbow Trout annually, offering an exciting challenge to experienced fishermen.

Ice fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities during winter months when conditions allow safe ice formation.

Fishing from shore or dock is also possible in designated areas throughout the park.

Remember that all anglers must have a valid Minnesota Fishing License.



Picnicking
Lake Bronson State Park offers picnic tables, fire rings and grills. A sheltered picnic area is available for rent.
Bicycling
Be aware, biking is limited to designated trails and park roads. Off-road cycling isn't permitted.

The 5-mile Agassiz Loop offers a moderate ride through diverse landscapes; caution for uneven terrain.

For an easier option, the paved 1.75-mile Prairie View trail provides gentle slopes with prairie views - watch out for pedestrians!

A more challenging route is the Aspen Trail which has steep hills and sharp turns over its two miles length.

Remember that helmets are strongly recommended when riding on any of these routes due to safety concerns.

Check local weather conditions before setting off as some paths may become hazardous in adverse weather situations.

Lastly, always respect wildlife you might encounter during your rides - keep safe distances at all times!
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 150 bird species, including raptors and waterfowl. The park offers a checklist for enthusiasts. There's also an observation tower providing panoramic views of the area where birds are often seen in migration seasons.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 9 dont go by Cheryl Cleven
park review stars; one to five water is green no swimming and no corn hole after 10 pm.. so disappointed
April 28 One of our favorite parks! by TNelson
park review stars; one to five Love the boating, paved bike trails, excellent kept bathrooms, a short walk to the ranger station, & friendly people! We used to enjoy Hayes Lake State Park & still do, but Lake Bronson has become #1! Looking forward to the coming summers! LOVE LAKE BRONSON STATE PARK!
March 21 A great time... by Justintime
park review stars; one to five Had a great time, nice beach, great swimming, my kids really enjoyed themselves. Wife enjoyed herself too.
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Directions
Located 2 miles east of the town of Lake Bronson, the park access is on County Highway 28.

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Minnesota
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Minnesota State Parks

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