Cottage Grove, Minnesota, offers a wealth of parks and recreational activities suitable for all ages and interests. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk, engaging sports facilities, or family-friendly attractions, our community has something to offer every weekend.
Hamlet Park
As the largest park in Cottage Grove, Hamlet Park spans over 150 acres and features a diverse range of amenities. Visitors can enjoy 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 also boasts a scenic two-mile trail system that winds through ponds, waterways, woods, and grasses, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Picnic shelters, grills, and a large play structure make Hamlet Park perfect for family gatherings and group events.
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
For those seeking a more immersive natural experience, the Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park offers over 500 acres of woods, hills, and prairie fields. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., the park provides a unique habitat for various species and features trails suitable for hiking and nature walks. A vehicle permit is required to enter the park grounds.
Shepard Farm
Shepard Farm, managed by the Dodge Nature Center, encompasses 140 acres of 100-year-old woods, historic buildings and barns from the 1920s, restored prairie, community gardens, a bee apiary, and animal pastures. The farm serves as a destination for agricultural and environmental education in Washington County. Trails are free to explore daily from sunrise to sunset, and restrooms are open for visitors.
Highlands Park Splash Pad
During the summer months, the Highlands Park Splash Pad is a popular destination for families. The splash pad is divided into three separate areas, catering to children of various ages. Surrounding the splash pad are benches, covered picnic tables, and shaded grassy areas, providing ample space for relaxation and picnics.
Recreational Programs and Events
The Cottage Grove Recreation Department offers a variety of activities, events, camps, and clinics throughout the year. Programs include pickleball clubs, youth tennis lessons, archery classes, and seasonal events like the Strawberry Fest 5K & 1 Mile run. New programs and events are continually added, so it’s advisable to check the city’s official website regularly for the latest brochures and flyers.
With its extensive park system and diverse recreational offerings, Cottage Grove provides numerous opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors and engage in community activities every weekend.