Monson Lake State Park

Monson Lake State Park is a historic natural area in Swift County covering 346 acres with a lake, forest patches, rolling hills, and wetlands. The landscape was shaped by glacier movement during the last ice age and supports varied plant and animal habitats.

The park was established as a memorial to 13 Swedish American pioneers who died during the Dakota War of 1862 at the Broberg cabin site. This tragedy shaped the park's purpose and remains central to its historical significance.

The park holds rustic buildings from the 1930s built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during New Deal programs. These structures are now registered on the National Register of Historic Places and reflect the craftsmanship of that era.

The park offers 20 camping sites and roughly one kilometer of hiking trails for easy walks through different habitats. The lake is accessible for fishing trips targeting northern pike, walleye, and bass.

The area sits on the Mississippi Flyway, a major bird migration route, making it a special place for waterfowl observation year-round. Visitors can watch different bird species pass through during their seasonal journeys.

Location: Swift County

Inception: 1937

Architectural style: rustic architecture

Website: https://dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00238

GPS coordinates: 45.32060,-95.27030

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07