Big Stone County, Minnesota, is a premier destination for outdoor recreation and nature lovers, centered around the 26-mile-long Big Stone Lake and the Minnesota River headwaters. Key attractions include fishing, boating, and bird watching, alongside the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge and Auto Tour, Big Stone Lake State Park, and local history at the Big Stone County Museum, apple orchards, continental divide, biking, hiking, and snowmobile trails.
Top Attractions & Activities
- Big Stone Lake State Park: Features the Bonanza Area (a Scientific and Natural Area) with rare prairie, hiking, picnic areas, and a boat launch.
- Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge: Offers a 10-mile wildlife drive, hiking trails (including the Granite Outcrop Trail), birding, and views of the Minnesota River.
- Big Stone Lake: Known for excellent fishing (walleye, perch, bluegill), swimming, boating, and ice fishing in the winter.
- Big Stone County Museum: Located in Ortonville, featuring local history, a one-room schoolhouse, and the extensive Charles Hanson bird collection.
- Golfing: Courses include the 18-hole Ortonville Municipal Golf Course and Graceville’s 9-hole course.
- Toqua Park and Campground: Located on Toqua Lake in Graceville, offering 18 campsites with amenities, a swimming beach, and a playground.
Recreation Areas: - Lakeside Park (Ortonville): Features a beach and is located at the southern end of Big Stone Lake.
- Bonanza Area (State Park): Offers a 30-acre rare glacial till hill prairie.