Dogs are allowed in most areas within the parks, but are required to be on a leash at all times. Areas in which dogs are NOT allowed include the beaches, playgrounds, and picnic shelters. Dogs are allowed in the campground at Baylor Regional Park, but are required to be on a leash. Dogs CANNOT be tethered to a post or tree in the park areas. Click here for information about Lake Minnewashta Regional Park Off-Leash Dog
Area.
Are there lifeguards on duty at the beach facilities?
No. Beginning the summer of 2024, the beaches at Baylor, Lake Minnewashta, & Lake Waconia Regional Parks will not be guarded and are open Memorial Day - Labor Day at a swim-at-your-own risk status.
Can I hunt, fish or trap in the park areas?
Hunting and trapping of any kind is not permitted within the park or trail areas, those in violation are subject to penalty. Fishing is allowed within park areas, however is only allowed in designated areas of fishing pier(s) and docks. FISHING FROM BEACH AREAS IS NOT PERMITTED. For more information on fishing, please visit our Summer Recreation page.
Do I need a vehicle permit to enter the park?
No - As of December 1, 2019 you are no longer required to purchase a permit to enter the parks.
Do you allow alcoholic beverages in the parks?
Carver County Parks does allow beer and wine in its parks. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the beach and at the playgrounds. Additionally, kegs, hard liquor, and glass containers of any kind are not allowed.
Do you rent recreational equipment?
Equipment ranging from cross country skis & snowshoes to canoes, kayaks, and yard games are available for rent at select Carver County Regional Parks. See the 'Summer Recreation' and 'Winter Recreation' pages for more information.
What are the Baylor Campground office hours?
The campground office does not have specified hours except that it is open on Friday evenings until 7pm. If you arrive at the campground and the office is closed, please call the campground host phone (612) 209-0109 and they will assist you.
What are the park hours of operation?
All Regional Park Locations:
Open Daily 6:00A.M.-10:00P.M.
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park is open starting at 5:00am from fishing opener through September 15th.
Parks Office:
Open Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm (closed all legal holidays)
Check-in time is 3:00 P.M. & check-out is 2:00 P.M. If the campground office is not open, please call the campground host cell phone at (612) 209-0109 and they will assist you. If you check in before noon or out after 2 (with prior approval), there will be an early check in/late check out fee.
When can I make a camping/facility reservation?
You can make camping and facility reservations one year in advance by calling (952) 466-5255 or online here.
Where are the parks located?
Baylor Regional Park
10775 County Rd. 33, Norwood Young America, MN 55397
Located on County Road 33, 2.5 miles north of Hwy 5 & Hwy 212, near Norwood Young America
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park
6900 Hazeltine Blvd., Chanhassen, MN 55331
Located along Hwy 41, between Hwy 5 & Hwy 7, west of Chanhassen
Lake Waconia Regional Park
8170 Paradise Lane, Waconia, MN 55387
Located just east of Waconia off of Hwy 5, on Paradise Lane next to the Lakeside Ballroom
Dakota Rail Regional Trail
Trail runs from New Germany along the county line to Hennepin County
New Germany Trailhead in New Germany at County Rd. 30 & County Rd. 33 (east side)
Mayer Trailhead in Mayer at Hwy 25 & County Rd. 30
St. Bonifacius in Hennepin County at Kennedy Memorial Dr. & Bell St. (not managed by Carver County)
Parks Office: Carver County Public Works Building
11360 Hwy. 212 West, Suite 2, Cologne, MN 55322
Where can I find a park trails map?
Visit our Park Maps webpage to view & download park maps & brochures. There are maps specifically for the summer & winter seasons.
