Aztalan State Park
"Watertown visitors are close enough for frequent short outings and school trips. The park’s interpretive features make it especially appealing for learning about regional history."
A historic park preserving ancient Native American earthworks along the Crawfish River.
By Department of Commerce. Bureau of Lighthouses. 1913-7/1/1939, Public domain
Rock Island Light State Park
"Watertown residents enjoy easy access to the Thousand Islands region, making Rock Island Light a popular day trip for history and nature enthusiasts."
A historic island park with a lighthouse, museum, and river views, accessible only by boat.
Big Stone Island Nature Area
"Watertown is a major regional hub with lodging, dining, and supplies for travelers heading to Big Stone Lake. Visitors from Watertown often make the trip for a quiet day of birding, fishing, and lake scenery."
A secluded island nature area on Big Stone Lake offering wildlife viewing, shoreline scenery, and a quiet escape.
Fort Sisseton Historic State Park
"Watertown residents can reach the park in under an hour for a historic day trip. The fort offers a distinctive alternative to city attractions, especially for families and history enthusiasts."
A restored frontier military fort offering history, events, and prairie scenery.