Minnesota's Underrated Lake State Park On The Iowa Border Is An Idyllic Spot For Camping, Fishing, And Kayaking

Minnesota is known as "The Land of 10,000 Lakes." While that seems like a staggering number, the truth is even more impressive — the state is home to nearly 12,000 lakes and reservoirs larger than 10 acres. One of those is the 25-acre Lake Louise near LeRoy, Wisconsin. Actually, a handful of Minnesota's 11,842 lakes are named Louise. But this notable one is situated within the underrated state park of the same name, and it's a peaceful place for camping, fishing, and kayaking.

Lake Louise State Park covers around 1,100 acres, including its namesake lake. The portion of the state in which the lake and park are found — just a few miles above the Iowa border — is otherwise relatively void of lakes. This makes Lake Louise, nestled where the Upper Iowa and Little Iowa Rivers meet, an ideal destination for those looking to fish or paddle in the southernmost region of Minnesota. Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards can be shore-launched in many areas around the lake. The typically calm, quiet waters of Lake Louise make for a peaceful paddle while watching birds and butterflies — both of which are found in abundance here.

Anglers can cast a line from shore or from a canoe or kayak, testing the waters in the lake and its two accompanying rivers. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are popular target species, as are crappie and catfish. Minnesota residents do not need a fishing license when fishing from shore within the state park. However, non-resident anglers age 16 and older, as well as residents fishing from a canoe or kayak, need a valid Minnesota fishing license. Fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Lake Louise State Park features a wide variety of camping options. The park's drive-in campground is home to 20 sites — 11 electric and nine non-electric for tents and RVs. A dump station and showers are available in the campground. Two rustic group campsites are up for grabs, too – Red Oak holds up to 20 campers, and Riverview can accommodate 30. Both have basic amenities, such as vault toilets and picnic tables. Additionally, there's a horse campground with six sites, as well as drinking water and vault toilets. Campers should make reservations online ahead of time to ensure a spot. Camping is typically available from Memorial Day through mid-October, though exact dates vary based on the weather.

Beyond the lake and camping facilities, Lake Louise State Park offers several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails. A 20-mile stretch of the Shooting Star State Trail, which is popular among hikers and cyclists, cuts directly through the park. This trail is available for use during spring, summer, and fall. If you're visiting Minnesota during its warmer months and need a way to cool off, a sandy beach and designated swimming area are open during the summer.

Despite all of the available activities and amenities, Lake Louise State Park remains relatively uncrowded and quiet. This might be the result of its remote location. While there's a smattering of small towns in the area, the nearest commercial airport and large city is Rochester, nearly an hour away. It's possible to fly into Rochester International Airport (RST) to shorten your travel time, but the state park is also a stop along the Midwest's scenic DARK Trail – if you're in the mood for a road trip, it's a wonderful option. While cruising through Minnesota, it's also worth stopping in Austin, about 30 minutes away. This friendly small town with big city amenities is home to one of the best food museums in the country, among other attractions.