Pioneer history site within Lake Shetek State Park commemorating the area’s settlement history and the events of 1862.

Lake Shetek State Park occupies 1,108 acres on the southeastern shore of Minnesota’s largest southwestern lake. The park features 14 miles of trails including the Loon Island Trail (1.5-mile interpretive loop on a 45-acre island bird sanctuary), Casey Jones Trail (6-mile paved bike loop connecting to Currie), and Prairie and Woodland Trails through restored prairies and 250-year-old oak groves. A sandy swimming beach has a bathhouse with changing rooms and restrooms. The park is a designated geocaching demo park with free GPS loaners at the office. Portage trails connect to Smith Lake and Park Lake for paddlers seeking quieter water. Equipment rentals available: canoes, kayaks, SUPs, paddleboats, and birding kits. Built by the WPA in 1934, the park’s stone causeways and historic beach house are part of its Depression-era heritage. A $7/day or $35/year vehicle permit is required.

A 45-acre island bird sanctuary accessible by causeway within Lake Shetek State Park. Features the 1.5-mile Loon Island Trail interpretive loop. Excellent for bird watching and nature photography.