Discover the Parks of Detroit Lakes | Things to Do in Detroit Lakes, MN
The scent of warm grass and damp soil, sun-dappled leaves of verdant green, a symphony of bird song undercut by the steady cadence of water cascading across rock—these are the sensorial delights awaiting those who visit Dunton Locks County Park. It’s true that a trip to “Lakes Country” often entails substantial time on the water, but visitors shouldn’t forget that there’s still plenty of fun to be had all while keeping two feet planted firmly on the ground.
It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or your fiftieth visit—the magic of Dunton Locks is that it has something unique to offer every single time. Tucked along the shores of Muskrat Lake and Lake Sallie, this 53-acre oasis is home to hundreds of animal species such as white-tailed deer, red foxes, squirrels, muskrats, raccoons and even mink and the occasional river otter. Birding enthusiasts, no matter the skill level, will discover there is much to be seen in Dunton Locks during spring migration with numbers peaking approximately May to June. Species to look for include migratory warblers (Golden-winged, Chestnut-sided, Yellow and Blackburnian to name a few), vireos, finches, woodpeckers, waterfowl, and herons, as well as Minnesota classics like the Common Loon, the Trumpeter Swan, and the Bald Eagle. Anglers looking to take advantage of the two fishing docks can try their luck reeling in a variety of panfish (like bluegill and crappie), bass, perch, and northern pike. Word to the wise: the restored rocky rapids central to Dunton Locks attract spawning fish such as Walleye and White Sucker. Expect seasonal closures to protect these concentrated populations (more information on timeframes can be found on the Minnesota DNR website).
Conveniently sited just three miles south of the city, Dunton Locks is the perfect option for a quaint outdoor wedding or a fun-fueled family picnic that will leave a lasting impression. The Main shelter, closest to Muskrat Lake, contains covered seating for up to 80 people with amenities such as year-round heated accessible restrooms, baby changing stations, indoor water bottle fill station, and an outdoor water spigot, outdoor countertops, plus indoor and outdoor electrical outlets. The Eagles shelter provides a great view of the park area and offers an indoor charcoal/wood fire grill plus covered seating for 48 guests and electrical outlets. Visitors can relax and quietly observe the beautiful view of two iconic area lakes or stretch their legs on paved recreation pathways. Miles of hiking trails turn into cross country ski trails during the winter months that make this park an adventure worth taking no matter the season.
Located in Frazee, Wannigan Regional Park is a 158-acre destination bisected by the Otter Tail River and uniquely situated at the crossroads of three major ecological provinces: Laurentian Mixed Forest, Eastern Broadleaf Forest and Prairie Parkland. While some of the open grassland has been converted from former pasture and cropland, much of the eastern side of the river has likely never been tilled. Additional notable features are the covered bridge over the Otter Tail River and the walking paths leading to the Thomas Dambo troll Jacob Everear. Intrepid explorers looking to make memories can enjoy camping and kayaking in the summer or snowshoeing excursions in the winter. Hikers can also explore to their heart’s content on three major trails that converge within the park: the Otter Tail River Trail, the Heartland State Trail, and the North Country National Scenic Trail. Matthew Davis (Detroit Lakes), an expert on the North Country Trail, explains that its low-impact design is “all about getting people of all abilities safely out into nature under their own power year-round,” noting that even local wildlife makes use of the path. “You feel like you’re immersed in nature.”
Other local parks include: Dog Park (1023 10th Ave SE), frolicking fun for the four-legged friend in your life; South Shore Park, perfect for families with energetic children; Peoples Park by Zorbaz where you can challenge your friends on the Pickle Ball court; Long Lake Park, which would be perfect for that family picnic you’ve been planning, and City Park that’s getting a major facelift beginning spring 2026. Those who love nature will delight in the conservation efforts that make Sucker Creek Preserve, Hamden Slough and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuges must-see destinations, while multiple state parks such as Itasca, Buffalo River, Glendalough, and Maplewood are an hour’s drive or less away.
