Lake and lily pads

Medicine Lake Vacation Rentals

Medicine Lake

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Medicine Lake
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Why Rent On Medicine Lake

Medicine Lake, a sprawling 902-acre expanse in Minnesota, offers a serene and vibrant escape for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers alike. Located just outside Minneapolis, this lake is a hub for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, making it an ideal spot to connect with nature.

Surrounding the lake are several parks, including East and West Medicine Lake Parks, which feature newly renovated playgrounds, adaptive swings, and ample space for picnics and relaxation. Nearby, Clifton E. French Regional Park and the General Mills Nature Research Area provide additional opportunities for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna.

For those interested in cycling, the Midtown Greenway and the Luce Line Trail offer extensive routes that connect rural Minnesota to urban Minneapolis. The city itself is just a short drive away, offering access to cultural landmarks like the Walker Art Center, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Minnehaha Park, with its stunning 15-meter waterfall and limestone cliffs, is another must-visit attraction in the vicinity.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure, a wellness retreat, or a family-friendly getaway, Medicine Lake and its surroundings promise a rich and fulfilling experience.

Best time to go
Visit Medicine Lake in late summer, particularly August, where sun-dappled waters beckon for serene kayaking and fishing. Embrace the gentle warmth, with the hum of cicadas replacing the chorus of crowds, making each sunset an intimate spectacle.
Water Quality
Medicine Lake in Minnesota exhibits water colors ranging from aquamarine to jade, with water clarity varying from ultra-clear to sparkling.
Surface area (mi)
2.3
Max depth (ft)
48.88
Elevation (ft)
898.95
Shoreline length (mi)
5

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Medicine Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Medicine Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Medicine Lake, but it depends on the location. At the Medicine Lake in Modoc National Forest, swimming is permitted in a designated swimming area next to the Picnic Area. However, at the Medicine Lake in Minnesota, swimming can be restricted due to high nutrient levels and algae growth.

  • Medicine Lake is a popular destination because it offers a 902-acre body of water for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by parks and trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round. West Medicine Lake Park and Clifton E. French Regional Park add to the attractions with amenities like fishing piers, beaches, and hiking trails.

  • The daily catch limits for bluegill and black crappie in Medicine Lake, Minnesota, are 10 bluegill and 5 black crappie per day. These limits are part of new special regulations applied to several lakes in the area, including Clearwater Lake and Maple Lake, which also have the same daily limits for these species.

  • The beach at Medicine Lake in Maple Grove, MN, within French Regional Park, is best for families. It has a large shallow section and a sandy lake bottom, making it ideal for youngsters to swim and play. The area is also well-maintained with amenities like picnic shelters and playgrounds.

  • Towns near Medicine Lake include Plymouth, Golden Valley, New Hope, Saint Louis Park, Crystal, and Hopkins. These towns are all located in the same general area and are fed by the same drainage system as Medicine Lake. They are part of the larger Minneapolis metropolitan area.