Minnesota's Premier State Park Under An Hour From Sioux Falls Is A Lake Paradise To Camp, Fish, And Boat

Although Minnesota is often referred to as "The Land of 10,000 Lakes," the true number of lakes within the state's boundaries is actually closer to 12,000. The majority of these lakes are found in the upper half of the state. Split Rock Lake is in the southwest corner of Minnesota, and was intentionally created to provide a source of recreation in a portion of the state with very few natural lakes. In fact, it's the only lake Pipestone County, making it a local hot spot for fishing, boating, and swimming in the summer.  Along the shores of the lake, Split Rock Creek State Park also allows visitors to hike and camp overnight on the surrounding land. 

As one of only four counties in Minnesota with no natural lakes, Pipestone County welcomed the creation of Split Rock Lake in 1938. The lake, which covers just under 100 acres, was formed by damming Split Rock Creek with blocks of locally quarried Sioux Quartzite. Split Rock Creek State Park was established one year earlier in 1937, before construction on the dam was completed. Not to be confused with Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, which sits on the shores of Lake Superior some 370 miles away, Split Rock Creek State Park is relatively quiet, drawing less than 60,000 visitors per year. Those who make the trek to this secluded state park will be rewarded with a myriad of activities throughout the year.

There are a number of ways to enjoy the lake at Split Rock Creek State Park, but fishing ranks right up at the top. Anglers can target a variety of species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, walleye, and sunfish. There is plenty of shore access within the park, and the ADA accessible fishing pier is ideal for beginners and families. The park also has a boat launch for small boats, as well as a boat dock at the on-site campground. 

In addition to fishing, the lake is designed for a peaceful, slow-paced boating and paddling experience. As is the case with all Minnesota lakes contained entirely within a state park, there is a 10 mile per hour speed limit and water skiing is not allowed. The water is typically quiet and calm, making it ideal for stand-up paddle boarding. Canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards can be launched from shore and are available to rent from the park office in the summer.

Visitors can also wade in for a swim at the park's sandy beach. The shallow water and sandy bottom within the buoyed swimming area allows younger kids to cool off and play safely. Those who prefer to get active will find a volleyball court in the sand, per Pickles Travel. 

Beyond the lake, Split Rock Creek State Park has 4.5 miles of hiking trails. The Split Rock Creek Loop is an easy trek that's just over 2 miles long. It winds along the western shoreline of the lake and part of Split Rock Creek before cutting across prairies and woods. Along this loop, hikers will encounter Prairie Hill, a scenic overlook surrounded by fields of seasonal wildflowers. Another path leads to the dam overlook, where visitors can view both the Sioux Quartzite dam and a historic stone bridge across Split Rock Creek.

There are a number of camping options at Split Rock Creek State Park. The park has 33 drive-in campsites for RVs and tents, 21 of which have electric hookups. The campground also features a boat dock, showers, and dump station. The campground is densely wooded and each site is shaded by tall trees. All campsites are available year around, although some amenities are seasonal. According to Wilderness Times, September is the best month for camping in Minnesota for pleasant weather, minimal humidity, and fewer mosquitoes.

Split Rock Creek State Park is somewhat remote, surrounded by small communities, farmland, and wildlife management areas. The closest town is Jasper, a quaint destination some 5 miles to the south. Sioux Falls, one of the Midwest's artsiest cities, is around 45 minutes away by car. The city is home to Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), the nearest commercial airport to Split Rock Creek State Park. On the way from the airport, visitors will pass through Garretson, South Dakota's picturesque city on the Minnesota border. Those wanting to explore nearby points of interest will find Pipestone National Monument, Minnesota's gorgeous nature escape, 15 minutes north of the state park.