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Swimming Beaches
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Big Marine Beach
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Square Lake Beach
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Lake Elmo Swim Pond
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St. Croix Bluffs Beach
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Point Douglas Park Summer
Beach Information
Washington County Parks natural beaches open May 28 - Labor Day 2022. Beginning June 4, the Swim Pond at Lake Elmo Park Reserve will be open. The Swim Pond will be open 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily. It will have lifeguards from 12 - 8 p.m. The Swim Pond will be closed for the season on Monday, August 22.
Natural Beaches are open from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.
Organized groups that will be swimming must obtain prior approval at least seven days before your park visit.
- Restrooms are open at Big Marine Park Reserve Beach and playground, Square Lake Park Beach, and Point Douglas Park Beach.
- All beach users must social distance according to current State of Minnesota guidelines.
- Vehicle permits will continue to be enforced.
- If no lifeguards are present, safety breaks will not be called. Please remember to take breaks on hot days to get out of the sun, re-apply sunscreen, and drink water.
- If thunder or lightning is observed exit the water immediately and do not re-enter until at least 30 minutes has passed since last observation.
| Park | Lifeguards | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Big Marine | Unguarded | On the gentle grade of Big Marine Lake, which makes this beach great for families. |
| Lake Elmo Swim Pond | Lifeguards daily Noon - 8 p.m. | A man-made two-acre swimming pond that is chlorinated and filtered. |
| Point Douglas Beach | Unguarded | 510 feet of sandy beach and many scenic views of the St. Croix River. |
| Square Lake Beach | Unguarded | 690 feet of sandy beach on the clearest and cleanest lake in the seven-county metro area. |
| St. Croix Bluffs Beach | Unguarded | A small, unguarded beach on the waters of the beautiful St. Croix River. |
For the protection of park resources and facilities and for the enjoyment of all visitors, please observe all regulations posted throughout the park:
- All children must be supervised by an adult
- Children must be accompanied by an adult in the water
- Please use swim diapers
- Coast Guard approved life jackets are allowed
- All flotation devices, including water wings, air mattresses, kickboards, tubes, and noodles are not permitted
- Safety breaks are taken every hour between noon and 8 p.m. Please listen for lifeguard directions
- Dogs are not allowed on beaches or picnic areas. They are allowed on hiking trails only and must be on a leash
- Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages, including 3.2 beer, is prohibited.
- Glass containers are not permitted
- Smoking is not allowed on the sand, but is allowed in the grassy areas
- Please dispose of all waste in a garbage or recycling bin during your stay
- A permit is required for Metal Detecting in Washington County beaches. Completed applications can be emailed to parks@co.washington.mn.us.
Organized Groups
Organized groups that will be swimming must obtain prior approval at least seven days before your park visit. For group swim requests, please call 651-430-8370.