Lake Bemidji State Park

Welcome to Lake Bemidji State Park, a lush tamarack bog located in northern Minnesota near Bemidji.

Park History: The park's swamps, bogs and lakes were formed by glacial retreat at the end of the last ice age over 10,000 years ago. For many centuries, this Dakota tribe hunted, fished, and ruled this land. In the late 19th century European Immigrants came to the region in hopes of harvesting the Norway pines for timber. The area soon became the center of logging in the United States. The remnants of some of the old logging mills are still visible today. The State of Minnesota purchased some tracts of virgin forest before the logger's ax could reach them. Lake Bemidji State Park was established in 1923 and today more than 135,000 people come to visit annually.

Flora and Fauna: The diverse landscape of this pine-moraine region of Minnesota helps to protect numerous species of plants and animals. Some of the park's plants include conifers, pines, sundews, orchids, and many others. The diversity of plant life helps provide wildlife habitat for squirrels, chipmunks, deer, porcupines, bears, and numerous birds of prey. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors this park boasts many miles of multipurpose trails, a boat ramp, a swimming beach, a volleyball court, and several picnic tables. Come on out and explore.