Natural swimming hole
Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods
Lake · Minnesota
About this swimming hole
Zippel Bay State Park fronts over two miles of white-sand beach on Lake of the Woods, one of the world's largest lakes. Unique underwater sandbars stretch hundreds of feet into the big lake, making for long wades and play in the shallows. Piping plovers and sandhill cranes share the shore with swimmers in Minnesota's far northwest.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | underwater sandbars stretch hundreds of feet |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | MN state park vehicle permit required ($7 daily) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | beach parking lot; park at 3684 54th Ave NW |
| Amenities | swimming beach, picnic area with shelter, marina, fishing pier, campground, hiking trails |
| County | Lake of the Woods County |
| Nearest town | Williams |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; big-lake waves and weather can change fast |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods?
Yes — Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods is listed as a natural swimming spot in Minnesota. Heads-up: no lifeguard; big-lake waves and weather can change fast. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods require reservations?
No reservations are required at Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods?
Reported fee info: MN state park vehicle permit required ($7 daily). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Zippel Bay State Park, Lake of the Woods?
The best season is typically June-August.