Located about 90 miles southeast of Minneapolis and not far from several large nature reserves, the city of Rochester, MN, is a great base for boaters and water sports enthusiasts wanting to take their friends or family on new adventures. If you are searching for the best boating destinations to visit in your 2022 Mazda CX-9, here are three wonderful spots you can reach in less than one hour by car.
The 3 Best Boating Destinations You Can Drive to From Rochester, MN
1. Rice Lake State Park
Boasting a 1200-acre natural lake and open for popular water sports including jet skiing, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, Rice Lake State Park is a true local gem for boaters from Rochester and other nearby towns. Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this nature reserve is a perfect spot to spend a weekend away from the city and enjoy some of the beautiful landscapes of the region.
Located a little over 35 miles west of downtown Rochester, Rice Lake State Park can be reached in about 40 minutes by car via route US-14. Open year-round between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm, this place features public boat ramps, picnic shelters, numerous hiking trails, a playground, and fully equipped campgrounds with hot showers, electric outlets, and drinking water.
2. Frontenac State Park
Sitting on the western banks of the Mississippi River, Frontenac State Park is a beautiful public recreation area that offers plenty of opportunities for boaters, anglers, and anyone looking for a quaint nature reserve to recharge their batteries after a long week. Located a little under 50 miles north of downtown Rochester, this nature reserve can be reached in less than an hour by car via route US-52.
Offering direct access to Lake Pepin, Frontenac State Park is a popular stop for migratory birds and therefore a true paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. Some of the places you should check out while exploring the area include the Sandy Point area, which can be easily reached by boat and is a perfect spot to sit in the sand and relax.
3. Myre-Big Island State Park
Spanning almost 1,600 acres along the shores of Albert Lea Lake, Myre-Big Island State Park is a well-known weekend and day trip destination among Rochester locals. Featuring a large parking area, a public boat ramp, and a wooden pier, this place is located just 60 miles southwest of the city center and can be reached in less than an hour by car. Popular activities among visitors include camping, fishing, wildlife watching, and hiking.
If you are looking for a trusted local dealership to buy a new or used car to go on memorable adventures and explore these and other wonderful spots, visit us today at Rochester Mazda! Our friendly colleagues will be happy to tell you all about our latest models.
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