Myre-Big Island State Park
🏆 Minnesota’s Prairie & Wetland Escape — 1,700 acres of oak savanna, marshes, and Big Island’s ancient forest
Rising from the waters of Albert Lea Lake, Big Island stands as a 116-acre sanctuary of old-growth maple and basswood forest—a rare remnant of the woodlands that once covered southern Minnesota. Myre-Big Island State Park wraps around this ecological treasure, protecting over 1,700 acres where prairie grasses meet wetland marshes and thousands of migratory birds pause on their continental journeys.
This park is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a paddler’s dream. The Shell Rock River water trail flows through, Great Egrets stalk the marshes, and the Blazing Star State Trail offers miles of paved paths through native prairie. Whether you’re pitching a tent, launching a kayak, or simply scanning the skies for migrating waterfowl, Myre-Big Island delivers that quintessential Minnesota outdoor experience.
At a Glance: Myre-Big Island Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | 19499 780th Avenue, Albert Lea, MN 56007 |
| ⏰ Hours | Daily 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, year-round |
| 💰 Entry Fee | $7/day or $35/year (MN State Park Permit) |
| 🥾 Trails | 16 miles hiking + 6 miles paved Blazing Star Trail |
| 🏕️ Camping | 93 sites including electric, cabin, backpack, and group |
| 📏 Size | 1,700 acres |
Hiking Trails: 16 Miles of Prairie and Forest
Myre-Big Island’s trail system takes you through three distinct ecosystems: oak savanna prairies, wetland marshes, and Big Island’s shaded hardwood forest. The trails range from easy lakeside strolls to moderate hikes through rolling glacial terrain.
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Island Trail | 1.5 mi loop | Easy | Ancient maple/basswood forest, peaceful island setting |
| Great Marsh Trail | 1.7 mi loop | Moderate | Rolling hills, migrating waterfowl, wildflowers |
| Esker Trail | 2.0 mi | Moderate | Glacial esker ridge, prairie views |
| Lakeshore Trail | 0.7 mi | Easy | Albert Lea Lake views, connects to Blazing Star Trail |
| Blazing Star Trail | 6.0 mi (paved) | Easy | Biking/walking through native prairie, wheelchair accessible |
The Blazing Star State Trail is a standout feature—a 6-mile paved path perfect for biking, rollerblading, or accessible hiking. It cuts through native prairies and offers periodic glimpses of Albert Lea Lake. The trail is named after the blazing star wildflower that blooms in the prairie each summer.
Camping: 93 Sites for Every Style
From drive-in RV sites with electric hookups to secluded backpack-in spots, Myre-Big Island offers camping options for everyone. The campgrounds feature modern facilities including flush toilets and hot showers—a welcome luxury after a day on the trails.
| Site Type | Sites | Amenities | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Sites | 32 | 30/50 amp, near showers | $27-31/night |
| Non-Electric | 55 | Tent-friendly, more privacy | $21-25/night |
| Camper Cabin | 1 | Heated, sleeps 5, year-round | $70-80/night |
| Backpack Sites | 4 | Walk-in only, secluded | $15-17/night |
| Group Camp | 1 | Up to 50 people | $75-100/night |
Winter Camping
The park stays open year-round, with 10 winter-accessible sites: 1 cabin, 4 RV/trailer sites with limited services, and 4 tent-only sites. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing replace hiking, and the frozen lake offers ice fishing opportunities.
Reservations
Book online at reservemn.usedirect.com or call 866-857-2757. Summer weekends fill quickly—reserve at least 2-3 months ahead for July-August dates.
Fishing & Paddling on Albert Lea Lake
Albert Lea Lake wraps around the park’s eastern shore, offering excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. The lake connects to the Shell Rock River State Water Trail, making it part of a larger paddling network.
Fishing
| Species | Best Season | Where to Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Panfish (Bluegill, Crappie) | Spring – Fall | Little Island Dock, shoreline |
| Bullheads | Spring | Shallow bays |
| Carp | Summer | Lake edges |
| Ice Fishing | Winter (Dec-Feb) | Open lake areas |
A wooden fishing pier at Little Island Dock provides accessible shoreline fishing. A valid Minnesota fishing license is required.
Paddling
- Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Available at the park office (seasonal)
- Boat Ramp: Located at Little Island Dock
- Water Trail: Shell Rock River connects to broader paddling routes
Wildlife & Bird Watching
The park’s mix of prairie, wetland, and forest habitats creates prime conditions for wildlife observation. Myre-Big Island is particularly renowned as a migration stopover—the marshes host thousands of waterfowl each spring and fall.
| Season | What to Watch For | Best Location |
|---|---|---|
| Spring/Fall Migration | Waterfowl (ducks, geese), shorebirds, warblers | Great Marsh Trail overlooks |
| Summer | Great Egrets, herons, songbirds, butterflies | Prairie trails, wetland edges |
| Year-round | White-tailed deer, foxes, wild turkeys | Big Island Trail at dawn/dusk |
Bring binoculars! The park is a designated Important Bird Area and recorded over 200 bird species. Spring migration (April-May) is the most spectacular time for birding.
Best Time to Visit: Seasonal Guide
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall (Sep-Oct) | 50-65°F, crisp | Moderate | Fall colors, waterfowl migration, hiking |
| Spring (Apr-May) | 45-65°F, variable | Light | Bird migration, wildflowers, fishing |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 75-85°F, humid | High | Camping, paddling, Blazing Star Trail |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | 10-35°F, snowy | Very light | XC skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, cabin stay |
Getting There & Nearby
Myre-Big Island State Park is located just east of Albert Lea, about 90 miles south of Minneapolis via I-35. The park entrance is on 780th Avenue, east of the Albert Lea Lake outlet.
While in the area, consider visiting:
- More Minnesota State Parks
- Freeborn County Historical Museum (Albert Lea)
- Helmer Myre State Park connecting trails
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Myre-Big Island State Park?
A daily vehicle permit costs $7, or you can purchase an annual Minnesota State Park permit for $35 ($26 for a second vehicle). Camping fees are separate and range from $15-80 per night depending on site type.
Can I rent canoes or kayaks at the park?
Yes! Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the park office during the summer season. Call ahead to confirm availability, especially on busy weekends.
What is the best trail for beginners or families?
The Big Island Trail (1.5-mile loop) is ideal for families—it’s mostly flat, shaded, and showcases the park’s beautiful maple/basswood forest. The paved Blazing Star Trail is also great for strollers and wheelchairs.
Is the park open in winter?
Yes! Myre-Big Island offers year-round camping with 10 winter-accessible sites including a heated cabin. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on Albert Lea Lake.
When is the best time for bird watching?
Spring migration (April-May) offers the most spectacular birding, with thousands of waterfowl and shorebirds passing through. Fall migration (September-October) is equally impressive. The Great Marsh Trail overlooks are the best viewing spots.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
Yes, dogs are welcome on a leash (6 feet max) on all trails and in campgrounds. They’re not permitted in buildings or on designated swimming beaches.
How do I make camping reservations?
Reservations can be made online at reservemn.usedirect.com or by phone at 866-857-2757. For summer weekends, book 2-3 months in advance. The heated cabin books up even earlier, especially for winter weekends.
🏕️ Ready to Explore Myre-Big Island?
From prairie trails to paddling adventures, this Minnesota gem awaits your discovery.
