Woman Lake

Woman Lake
46.95194° N, -94.2758° W

Woman Lake, situated in the heart of Minnesota, is a sprawling expanse of water surrounded by forests and rolling hills, creating a breathtaking backdrop for various outdoor activities. With its 5,519 acres, the lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and family travelers alike.

Nearby, the Chippewa National Forest beckons nature lovers with its pristine trails and diverse wildlife, while the Paul Bunyan State Trail, a 115-mile route from Brainerd to Bemidji, is perfect for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling year-round. For those looking to delve into history and culture, the Museum of Natural History and Indian Culture is a short drive away, providing a rich insight into the region’s heritage.

In the summer, Longville transforms into the “Turtle Racing Capital of the World,” offering a unique and entertaining experience for families. The area is also dotted with golf courses, restaurants, and convenience stores, ensuring that every need is catered to. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Woman Lake and its surrounding attractions promise an unforgettable experience.

Surface area (mi)
13.87
Max depth (ft)
66.99
Elevation (ft)
1325.46
Shoreline length (mi)
30.39
Best time to go
Visit Woman Lake from late June to early September, when the vibrant sun dances upon tranquil waters, inviting fishing enthusiasts and water sports aficionados alike. Embrace serene weekdays, where the only disturbances are songs of loons and whispering pines.
Water Quality
The water at Lake of the Ozarks is not crystal-clear or pristine, but rather has a clarity of about 4 to 5 feet, often affected by rain, wind, and boat traffic. The water color can appear more murky or tea-colored due to sediment and other factors. The shoreline is surrounded by dense forests with millions of hickories, maples, oaks, and ashes that display vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows in the fall, creating a stunning natural scenery.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing

Islands

Emerging gracefully from the tranquil waters, the islands of Woman Lake beckon with a whispers of adventure and history. Each island, a verdant slice of paradise, boasts trails winding through towering pines, leading to captivating lookouts with breathtaking vistas. These small havens have long been a cherished escape for locals and travelers alike, steeped in a rich tapestry of Native American heritage and pioneer stories. Notably, one can find remnants of historical landmarks, such as an old wooden fishing cabin, now a revered site for anglers, where the challenge of the catch meets the thrill of nostalgia. A favorite among photographers, the islands offer secret spots to capture stunning sunsets reflecting off the lake’s glassy surface. Whether you’re paddling along quiet shores or hiking the shaded paths, the islands serve as both a recreational paradise and a bridge to the past, ensuring every visit reveals a new layer of its enchanting allure.

Nearby amenities

Visitors to this scenic area will find an array of amenities to enhance their experience. For water activities, the Woman Lake Marina offers boat rentals, including pontoons and jet skis, along with a convenient boat ramp for easy access. A public dock is available for visitors looking to launch their boats or enjoy the waterfront. Nearby, Paul Bunyan’s Grocery provides essential supplies, along with a bait and tackle shop for the fishing enthusiasts. For dining, the Woman Lake Cafe serves delightful meals with lakeside views, while Camp Chow serves delicious ice cream. Accessible parking lots accommodate daytrippers and RVs, ensuring a hassle-free visit. A designated swimming area provides refreshing relief during warmer months, and picnic areas with BBQ grills offer perfect spots for outdoor dining. For those staying longer, Woman Lake Resort features cozy cabins and camping options. With hiking trails and wildlife viewing nearby, this area caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, it is not always safe to swim in Woman Lake. Check local advisories and conditions for potential risks like undercurrents, cold water temperatures, and poor visibility. Ensure the area is marked as safe and free from bacteria or other hazards before swimming.

  • Woman Lake is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming on the lake, as well as hiking on nearby trails like the Paul Bunyan State Trail. The area also includes scenic drives and historic sites like the Charles A. Lindbergh House and Museum.

  • In Woman Lake, Minnesota, all northern pike between 24 and 36 inches must be immediately released. You can only keep northern pike that are less than 24 inches or greater than 36 inches, with a daily and possession limit of no more than one northern pike over 36 inches.

  • The beach at Kee-Nee-Moo-Sha Resort on Woman Lake is best for families. It has a 200-foot sandy beach with a waterpark-style waterslide, swimming raft, and beach-side amenities like lounge chairs and umbrellas. The resort also offers activities like castle climbers, swings, and complimentary kayaks and paddleboards.

  • The town closest to Woman Lake in Minnesota is Longville. Longville can be accessed by boat from Woman Lake and is located in the same area of Cass County. This town is near the other lakes in the Woman Lake Chain, including Girl Lake, Child Lake, and Little Woman Lake.

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Woman Lake
Woman Lake