Glendalough State Park
"Wadena visitors come for a scenic escape with less traffic and more natural shoreline. The park’s calm lakes and trails make it appealing for families and outdoor enthusiasts."
Glendalough State Park features more than 1,000 acres of lakes, wetlands, prairie, and hardwood forest, offering a scenic escape for paddlers, anglers, and campers. Its calm waters and restored natural areas make it one of Minnesota’s best parks for quiet outdoor recreation.
Lake Carlos State Park
"Wadena is far enough away to make Lake Carlos State Park a worthwhile overnight destination for camping and weekend recreation."
Lake Carlos State Park centers on the clear waters of Lake Carlos and nearby lakes, offering a classic Minnesota outdoor experience. Its mix of beaches, picnic areas, campgrounds, and wooded landscapes makes it a popular destination for families and anglers.
Maplewood State Park
"Wadena visitors often head to Maplewood for a weekend escape into rolling woodland and prairie terrain. The park offers a more dramatic landscape than much of the surrounding region."
Maplewood State Park features more than 9,000 acres of glacial hills, oak woods, prairies, and more than a dozen lakes. Visitors come for panoramic overlooks, wildlife viewing, camping, and peaceful outdoor recreation in every season.