Big Stone Lake State Park

🌤 Weather at Big Stone Lake State Park by season

Spring	Summer	Fall	Winter
19–69 °F	57–84 °F	21–74 °F	2–27 °F

Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Milbank 4 NW, 10 mi away, elevation 1,145 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.

By America's State Parks Editorial TeamFebruary 25, 2026 · Updated October 20, 2026

Big Stone Lake State Park is a Minnesota state park near Big Stone Lake and the town of Ortonville in Big Stone County. The Minnesota Legislature established it in 1961, and it is listed in Minnesota Statutes, section 85.012. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages it through Lac qui Parle State Park as part of its Southern Region.

The park is split into two separate units. According to the DNR’s boundary data, the larger unit centers about 7 miles northwest of Ortonville and the smaller one about 17 miles northwest of town (straight-line). Together the DNR manages about 1,023 acres, inside a statutory boundary of about 1,136 acres. The park’s coordinates are 45.3916, -96.5304.

As at other Minnesota state parks, you need a vehicle permit to enter. We have not yet been able to confirm the current facilities, campground, phone number and seasonal details with the DNR park page. Check the Minnesota DNR page for Big Stone Lake State Park before you go. As of October 2026.

About the Author

America's State Parks Editorial Team

America's State Parks is an independent online guide to state parks and other public lands in the United States. Our editorial team compiles park profiles from official agency and operator sources and other identified references, and follows our published editorial policy and review methodology. Where a profile shows a source-check date, that date applies to the detail it names. We correct errors when we find them or when readers report them.

🐾 Dogs & Pets at Big Stone Lake State Park

Pets allowed? statewide rule: Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times.
Leash rule statewide rule: Leash six feet or shorter (or portable enclosure) required at all times.
Beaches & swim areas statewide rule: Only service animals are allowed in beach areas — pets are prohibited on swim beaches statewide.
Cabins & lodging statewide rule: Only service animals are allowed in state park lodging, camper cabins, yurts and tipis — no pet-friendly cabin program.
Statewide exceptions statewide rule: Emotional support/therapy animals do not qualify as service animals and are prohibited from park buildings.

Are dogs allowed at Big Stone Lake State Park?
Pets are welcome in Minnesota state parks and recreation areas as long as they are leashed and personally attended at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.

Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.state.mn.us. More: Minnesota state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared

Last updated: October 20, 2026