SPLIT ROCK CREEK STATE PARK
Swim, fish, or boat the waters of Split Rock Lake, the largest body of water in Pipestone County. The lake is the predominant feature of this park. Stop by the Beach Side Trail Center for an excellent vista and to discover more about the area. Seven miles north of the park is the famous Pipestone National Monument.
The park is located in the Coteau des Prairies ("highlands of the prairie") Landscape Region. Rock outcrops and shallow soil prevented much of the land within the park from being plowed. However, grazing by domestic livestock has diminished the native grasses and wildflowers. Late summer offers visitors a panorama of prairie colors among the wildflowers and grasses.
Three major ice movements during the ice age deposited a thick layer of sand, gravel, rocks, and clay called till, which are several hundred feet in some areas. Under the till lays a hard pink bedrock known as Sioux quartzite. This hard metamorphic rock was quarried in the area for use as a building material.
> MN DNR Home > Outdoor activities > State parks > Split Rock Creek >Park InfoImage of Split Rock Creek State ParkQuick stats:
1,303 acres57,260 annual visitsNaturalist:
Although Split Rock Creek does not have a full-time naturalist on staff, interpretive programs are offered at the park from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day. Check at the park for a schedule of activities or contact the naturalist at Blue Mounds State Park who also coordinates the programming at Split Rock Creek.Wildlife
Lake and prairie animals inhabit the park. Meadowlarks, beavers, and waterfowl can be seen along the lakeshore. The southern, wooded part of the park is home to woodpeckers, fox squirrels, and other woodland animals.History
A large dam was completed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The dam was constructed of Sioux Quartzite, a hard red rock that was quarried locally for use in the building of the dam and nearby highway bridge. The park was developed to provide water-based recreation for an area of the state that has few lakes.Geology
Three major ice movements during the ice age deposited a thick layer of sand, gravel, rocks, and clay called till, which are several hundred feet in some areas. Under the till lays a hard pink bedrock known as Sioux quartzite. This hard metamorphic rock was quarried in the area for use as a building material.Landscape
The park is located in the Coteau des Prairies ("highlands of the prairie") Landscape Region. Rock outcrops and shallow soil prevented much of the land within the park from being plowed. However, grazing by domestic livestock has diminished the native grasses and wildflowers. Late summer offers visitors a panorama of prairie colors among the wildflowers and grasses.
Lake and prairie animals inhabit the park. Meadowlarks, beavers, and waterfowl can be seen along the lakeshore. The southern, wooded part of the park is home to woodpeckers, fox squirrels, and other woodland animals.
A large dam was completed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The dam was constructed of Sioux Quartzite, a hard red rock that was quarried locally for use in the building of the dam and nearby highway bridge. The park was developed to provide water-based recreation for an area of the state that has few lakes.
1. Split Rock Creek State Park offers a designated swimming area in the man-made lake.
2. The park does not provide lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is allowed during daylight hours only for safety reasons.
4. There are no fees or permits required to use the swimming facilities within the park boundaries.
5. Restrooms and changing areas are available near the beach for convenience of swimmers and sunbathers alike.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. A boat ramp is available, providing easy access to the lake for those who bring their own watercrafts. The calm waters are perfect for canoeing and kayaking as well as motorized boats with restrictions on speed limit due to safety reasons. Additionally, paddleboats and canoes are also available onsite for rental during summer months.
Located in Minnesota, the park offers fishing opportunities on a 65-acre lake. Anglers can catch walleye, northern pike and crappie. There's also an accessible pier for easy casting. Ice fishing is popular during winter months.