Owatonna, Minnesota, boasts a rich array of parks and outdoor activities that cater to residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature retreat or an active day out, Owatonna’s green spaces provide ample opportunities.
City Parks and Recreational Facilities
The city maintains over 906 acres of parkland across 37 parks, offering amenities such as volleyball, basketball, tennis, and horseshoe courts, ball diamonds, in-line and ice skating rinks, and dynamic playgrounds. These parks encourage people to connect with nature and engage with one another, fostering a stronger sense of community. Learn more about Owatonna’s parks and trails.
Kaplan’s Woods Parkway
For those interested in hiking and biking, Kaplan’s Woods Parkway is a 225-acre recreation area featuring multiple trails, including a mountain bike trail system. This area was featured as one of 10 fall hikes by Explore Minnesota’s 2018 Hike Campaign. Explore outdoor activities in Owatonna.
Rice Lake State Park
Located seven miles east of Owatonna, Rice Lake State Park offers activities such as canoeing, fishing, and bird watching. The park is open year-round, providing opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. Discover more about Rice Lake State Park.
Disc Golf and Pickleball
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a round of disc golf at Mineral Springs Park or participate in a favorite Owatonna pastime by playing pickleball at the Morehouse Park Courts. These facilities are well-maintained and provide a fun way to stay active. Find out more about Owatonna’s parks.
Geocaching Adventures
For a modern-day treasure hunt, geocaching is available throughout Owatonna’s parks. This activity uses GPS devices to locate hidden caches, making it a fun and engaging way to explore the outdoors. Geocaching units are available to check out for individual or family use at the Park and Recreation Office. Learn about geocaching in Owatonna.
With its diverse range of parks and activities, Owatonna offers something for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors.

