Flandrau State Park sits along the Cottonwood River in Brown County, Minnesota, offering 840 acres of river valley landscapes just south of the city of New Ulm. What sets Flandrau apart is its sand-bottomed swimming pond — one of the few chlorinated, beach-style swimming areas found in Minnesota’s state park system — making it a major draw for families during summer months.

The park’s terrain blends bottomland forest along the Cottonwood River with prairie uplands, creating varied habitat and scenic hiking. Eight miles of trails wind through hardwood forest, across the river floodplain, and up to prairie overlooks. In winter, these trails convert to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing routes. The river itself draws anglers year-round, with opportunities for smallmouth bass and catfish in warmer months.

Flandrau operates a modern campground with electric hookups alongside more rustic sites, plus a camper cabin for those who prefer a roof overhead. The campground fills quickly on summer weekends, so reservations are strongly recommended from June through August.

The park’s proximity to New Ulm adds a cultural dimension rare among Minnesota state parks. The town’s German heritage shows up in local breweries, the Glockenspiel tower, and the Hermann Monument — all within a short drive of the park entrance.

Visit in summer for swimming and camping, or come in fall when the Cottonwood River valley lights up with color. Spring brings wildflower displays along the bottomland trails, and winter offers quiet solitude on groomed ski tracks.

Explore Nearby

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