Wildlife spotting in Cottage Grove, Minnesota

Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park is a stunning 515-acre park located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. The park features hills, heavily-wooded ravines, old fields, and prairies, offering a diverse and picturesque landscape for visitors to explore. With different sun exposures on its slopes, the park boasts a unique variety of vegetation and habitats, making it a haven for wildlife such as grouse, ermine, cottontail rabbits, deer, and various bird species including the impressive pileated woodpecker. Visitors can enjoy hiking and exploring the park's trails, which offer both summer and winter options. Please note that vehicle permits are required for entry into the park.

Highlands Park is a top destination in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, offering 65 acres of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. This premier park features a baseball field, two soccer fields, two tennis courts, three basketball courts, an ice skating rink, and over four miles of paved trails winding through beautiful grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands. The park also boasts a picturesque pond with picnic areas and a large play structure for children. Whether you're looking to play sports, take a leisurely stroll, or have a family picnic, Highlands Park has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this must-visit tourist attraction in Cottage Grove!

Hamlet Park, located at 8883 Hamlet Avenue South in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, is a popular tourist attraction and the largest park in the area, spanning over 150 acres of park and open space. The park boasts a beautiful trail system that winds through ponds, waterways, woods, and grasses, offering visitors a chance to experience nature at its finest. In addition to the scenic trails, Hamlet Park also features seven baseball fields, three soccer fields, two tennis courts, two basketball courts, two sand volleyball courts, two football fields, a skateboard park, and ice-skating rinks. The park is equipped with a picnic shelter, picnic tables, grills, and a large play structure, making it an ideal location for large group gatherings.

Meadow Grass Park is a charming park located at 6950 Meadow Grass Avenue South in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Situated on 16 ½ acres of land, this small park offers a fun play structure set in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the park's diverse landscape, which starts with prairie grasses and flowers on the south end and transitions into hardwoods and ponds to the north. The park's name is derived from the nearby Meadowgrass Avenue, adding to its local charm. Whether you're looking to play, relax, or explore nature, Meadow Grass Park is a lovely destination for all ages.

Grey Cloud Island Regional Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 11500 Grey Cloud Trail South in Cottage Grove, Minnesota. This expansive park offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and fishing. With its stunning views of the Mississippi River and lush greenery, Grey Cloud Island Regional Park is the perfect destination for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day with family and friends. Come explore the beauty of this hidden gem in the heart of Minnesota.