Fargo Summer Lakes Guide

Summer is finally here and in our neck of the woods, warm weather means lake season. While this list is barely scratching the surface of nearby lake scenes, we’ve given you a small taste of your options for day activities. Whether it’s lying on the beach, a game of golf for the golf enthusiasts or shoreline dining, you can have the best summer yet in only a short drive.

The lake itself has a number of summer activities to take part in for the day. Sprawl out on the lakeshore for some sunbathing, swimming or fishing off the pier. You can also visit a number of restaurants along the beach or rent a pontoon or fishing boat from the marina and cruise the waters. If you are bringing your own boat to to sail in, it is important that you check it over first to make sure that it is secure to take and be on the water. You may want to bring extra Silicon Bronze Hex Bolts as well as other bronze boat supplies, in case any maintenance is needed, so you can ensure that your boat is safe. Visit their website to stay updated on summer events and activities.

W. Lake Dr, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

At the end of June, Detroit Mountain will open a professionally designed mountain bike trail system. Progressive Trail Design out of Arkansas is adding the final touches to purpose built trails featuring both cross county flow trails and lift-serviced gravity-fed trails. The trails are being engineered to host all levels of mountain bike enthusiasts, including an adventure zone for the young ones. If you don’t own a mountain bike yourself, you can rent one from their shop for the day.

29409 170th St., Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

Once you’ve spent enough time on the beach getting a good tan, walk over to Zorbaz for some lakeside fun. Enjoy an outdoor patio, live music, crafty cocktails and, of course, that tasty pizza. Check out their other locations in the surrounding lake areas as well.

402 W. Lake Dr, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

Hike or bike the trails at Dunton Locks County Park, with a bridge between Lake Sallie and Muskrat Lake and interpretive signs to tell you about the area’s tourism history. You can also stop for a picnic at various shelters, fish off a pier or visit the boat tram from Detroit Lakes to Shoreham.

200 State St. E, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

For a day of family fun, try your hand at mini golf, go- karts, bumper boats and batting cages.

15802 US-59, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

Get your friends together and grab a cooler for an afternoon in the sunshine, floating down the Ottertail River right outside of Detroit Lakes.

K&K Tubing: 3551 MN-34, Detroit Lakes, Minn.
Charlie’s Ottertail Tubing: 33503 MN-34, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

If you’re in the Cormorant area, you’ll want to make a pit stop here for some grub. Just outside of Detroit Lakes between Big Cormorant and Lake Ida, you can take advantage of weekly food specials and bingo nights with your friends.

11740 County Hwy. 5, Lake Park, Minn. Website

Visit Lake Carlos for a variety of summer activities that range from swimming, fishing and boating if you’re on the lake to hiking and horseback riding around the beautiful area. You could also try paddling (to find paddle boards, check www.everydaycalifornia.com/products/paddleboard-rentals) if you’re into trying a new watersport. You might enjoy this more than you thought. You could also grab some friends and visit the marina for an afternoon pontoon rental.

2601 County Rd. 28, NE, Alexandria, Minn. Website

Located on the northeast side of Lake Agnes and Lake Henry, you can enjoy a public swimming beach, playgrounds, picnic areas, grilling stations, fishing spots and more at this relaxing shore spot.

118 City Park Rd, Alexandria, Minn. Website

Care to take a dive in a nearby lake and scout around the bottom of the water? Problem solved. Visit the Divers Clubhouse for diving services, classes and equipment to make your summer a little more adventurous.

1123 3rd Ave. E, Detroit Lakes, Minn. Website

For a tropical take on your favorite dishes, live music and Caribbean cocktails, grab your friends and get away to this island restaurant on the shores of

Lake Le Homme Dieu. 2800 N. Nokomis NE, Alexandria, Minn. Website

Can you say Aloha? Right across the shores of Ottertail Lake sits a bar and restaurant with a relaxing, Hawaiian feel. Mixed with the beach view and their exotic menu, you’ll almost be transported to your favorite vacation destination during your dining experience.

35776 County Hwy. 72, Battle Lake, Minn. Website

Just south of Ottertail Lake on Annie Battle Lake you can find a pristine getaway known as Glendalough State Park. For a tranquil fishing experience, a relaxing canoe trek, a beautiful hike, wildlife exploration and more, you’ll want to make a visit here for the day. There’s also a new bike path that goes all the way into West Battle Lake if you’re looking for a two-wheeled adventure.

25287 Whitetail Lane, Battle Lake, Minn. Website

This is where you’ll want to be when you come off the water of Ottertail Lake. Check out premiere dishes and drinks for all types of taste buds, catch some live music and if you’re staying for more than a day, make a reservation at the lodge.

306 MN Hwy. 78, Ottertail, Minn. Website

On the southeast side of Ottertail Lake sits a favorite to residents and visitors of the area. This Par 72 layout is home to 18 holes, a driving range and a pro ship spanning over lush greens and trees.

28294 State Hwy. 78, Battle Lake, Minn. Website

This resort and day- getaway offers many things for the whole family to do. Although the water park is temporarily under construction, you can still enjoy Willy T’s Tavern, a spectacular golf course and more in the surrounding area.

300 Thumper Lodge Rd, Ottertail, Minn. Website

People come from all over to fish in the area. The good fish change from season to season, but Big Pine Lake has always been a standby for walleye. Insider tip, get your bait at Gene’s Sport Shop and ask for tips about where the fish are biting.

Gene’s Sport Shop: 150 E. Main St, Perham, Minn. Search Big Pine: Website

After a day of waterside golf at the Perham Lakeside Golf Club located right on the edge of Little Pine Lake, you can relax and enjoy delicious appetizers, dinners and drinks with a snazzy view of the golf course.

2727 450th St, Perham, Minn. Website

Just off the shores of Little Pine Lake is a park that promises a good time for everyone. Pack a picnic lunch, hit the playground, bring your swimming gear for the beach area or drop your boat in at the dock for some fishing fun. And of course, there’s a Zorbaz down the road for a night of lakeside dinner and drinks.

County Hwy. 51, Perham, Minn. Website

On the North Shore of Long Lake you can enjoy a day on the beach or a stroll through the park. Don’t forget to visit the world’s largest loon!

MN-228/Hwy 4, Vergas, Minn. Website

Located right next to the lovely town of Glenwood, Lake Minnewaska is the perfect place to visit on a hot summer day.

North Lakeshore Drive, Glenwood, Minn. Website