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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
CHANGE IN SERVICES UNDER COVID-19
Based on information from the Minnesota Department of Health guidelines and recommendations from American Red Cross, Washington County will not have lifeguards for the 2020 season. In addition to the regular beach rules, the following guidelines will also be in place for 2020:
- 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.
- No group gatherings of more than 10 people.
- Vehicle permits will continue to be enforced.
- Be prepared to bring your own drinking water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
- Without lifeguards, 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.
Please help keep the parks clean by picking up all your trash and disposing of in appropriate bins.
Beach Information
Washington County Parks beaches open June 8 - Labor Day 2020.
Beach hours are from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
| 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 | Closed | 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. Click here to download a permit application. Completed applications can be emailed to parks@co.washington.mn.us.
CHANGE IN SERVICES UNDER COVID-19
Due to social distancing guidelines, Washington County Parks is not accepting any group swim requests at this time.
Organized Groups
Organized groups that will be swimming must obtain prior approval at least seven days before your park visit.