Welcome to Cottage Grove, Minnesota! If you’re visiting during the sunny season, you’re in luck. This community shines in the summer, offering a fantastic array of outdoor activities that blend natural beauty with family-friendly fun. Lace up your shoes, grab your gear, and get ready to explore the best of “The Grove.”
Water & Wilderness: Park Highlights
The parks and natural areas are the heart of summer recreation in Cottage Grove.
Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
This beautiful Washington County park is an ideal spot for visitors seeking a mix of relaxation and activity.
Paddling on Ravine Lake: No need to bring your own boat! The park offers convenient self-accessible kayak rentals (iPaddleport) right on the lake, making it easy to get out on the water.
Hiking, Biking, and Trails: Explore the dramatic, heavily wooded ravines and hills on miles of paved and natural trails. It’s a challenging and scenic backdrop for hiking, running, or biking.
Fishing: Drop a line in Ravine Lake, which is a great spot for fishing, or try your luck at the designated fishing blocks near the park’s central area.
Hazen P. Mooers Park: Located on Grey Cloud Island, this park has a self-service kayak rental system for paddling the backwaters of the Mississippi. It’s also a terrific place for quiet nature and bird watching.
Active Recreation: Trails, Bikes, and Splash Pads
Cottage Grove has built specialized facilities perfect for an action-packed summer day.
The Cottage Grove Bike Park
A must-visit for cyclists of all ages and skill levels! Located in Hamlet Park, this park features:
Pump Tracks: Designed to help riders generate speed using momentum, perfect for practicing bike control.
4x Track: A track designed for bike skill development and racing.
Dirt Jump Plaza: For riders looking to hone their air skills and practice tricks.
Family Fun & Playgrounds
Woodridge Park’s Inclusive Playground: Home to one of the largest inclusive playgrounds in the state, featuring dozens of accessible pieces of equipment for children of all abilities.
Highlands Park Splash Pad: When the summer heat hits, there’s no better place to cool off! This vibrant splash pad is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm and provides hours of refreshing fun.
Disc Golf: Grab your discs and enjoy a round on the course at Oakwood Park.
Tee Off & Relax: Sports & Leisure
Take a break from the trails with some classic summer leisure.
River Oaks Golf Course
This municipal 18-hole course offers a premier golfing experience with scenic views, including some overlooking the Mississippi River.
Practice Your Swing: The course features a double-ended driving range and practice putting green. They even offer Toptracer Range technology for a fun, data-driven practice session!
Patio Dining & Games: After your round, relax at the Eagles Bar & Grill. Their beautiful outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal, play a game of bocce ball or bean bags (cornhole), all while overlooking the 18th hole.
Pickleball
The fastest-growing sport is well-represented in Cottage Grove! Dedicated courts for this paddle sport can be found at Glacial Valley Park, where you can join a league or just enjoy a friendly game.
Can’t Miss Summer Events
Check the local calendar to see if your visit aligns with one of Cottage Grove’s beloved community celebrations!
Strawberry Fest (Mid-June): A community-wide celebration that kicks off the summer, featuring carnival rides, food vendors, family fun nights, and more.
Cottage Grove offers everything a visitor needs for a perfect Minnesota summer getaway—from quiet paddling and scenic hikes to active bike tracks and a great round of golf.