Whether it's a refreshing, slightly shiver-inducing dip in early summer or a lukewarm splash in the dog days, Minnesotans try to take advantage of our abundant lakes while we can.
But for a place with thousands of lakes and rivers, it can be surprisingly challenging to find an accessible sandy oasis.
So, KAXE compiled a list of as many publicly accessible beaches in Northern Minnesota as we could and mapped them.
The map stretches from the Erskine County Park on Maple Lake to Whipple Beach in Baxter to the Lake Superior Chicago Bay Boat Launch in Hovland to Ranier Beach on Rainy Lake — and dozens in between.
But our map is far from complete! Help us find more public beaches for us all to enjoy by submitting your favorite.
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Chelsey Perkins/KAXEDozens of Northern Minnesota farmers markets make fresh produce and other homemade products available direct to consumers. Find a farmers market near you using KAXE's map. -
Chelsey Perkins/KAXEA special election this November 2025 will decide whether to build a new school to replace Rippleside, which has several issues from space to health risks.
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Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe devastating storms that impacted Bemidji and surrounding areas prompted the extension of a local emergency. The Beltrami County Board also heard an update on its temporary disposal site near Target. -
Heidi Holtan/KAXEEvery Friday morning, we get to know one of our members on "What's for Breakfast." This week, we talked with Cathy Davies from Grand Rapids.
