Lac qui Parle State Park

Lac qui Parle is a French translation of the name given to the lake by the Dakota who called it the "lake that speaks." If you visit in the spring or fall you'll understand why. The lake is a stop over for thousands of migratory Canada geese and other waterfowl. You'll hear a chorus of honking, quacking, and other vocalizations. Paddle the lake, or cast a line and catch walleye, northerns, perch, or crappie. Explore one of the trails by foot or horseback. Visit the historic Fort Renville and Lac qui Parle mission sites. While in the area, be sure to visit the 33,000 acre Lac qui Parle Wildlife Management Area.

Wildlife
The management of wildlife -- white-tailed deer, geese and other animals -- is a major success story. In the fall of 1958, only 150 geese were counted at Lac qui Parle. Since then, management practices have brought as many as 120,000 geese at one time. The geese arrive in early March from their primary wintering post at Swan Lake, Missouri. Spring migrations continue through April.

In late September, geese arrive and continue until the last birds leave in early December. Flights of whistling swans pass over Lac qui Parle in April and November. Pelicans nest in the area on a one-acre island.

Lac qui Parle State Park contains river floodplain and prairie hillsides. Lac qui Parle Lake is approximately fourteen feet deep, perfect for diverse wildlife habitat. Spring and fall migrations can be spectacular at the park.

Hiking 7 miles in upper and lower units
Visitors can access trails from behind the picnic shelter in the lower campground. Flat trails are easy to hike and take the visitor along some of the backwaters in the park. Lots of good bird watching and wildlife observation along trails. Trails are located in the upper and lower unit and are susceptible to seasonal flooding.

Several golf courses and breweries in area.

Make your reservation in the Upper Campground by May 25, 2025.