Minnesota might not be located in the tropics or even along an ocean coast. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have at least a few of the offerings those locales have up for grabs. For one thing, our humid summer weather rivals the weather in many of the nation’s most southerly states. And though we don’t have any oceans nearby, we have plenty of water to cool off in. We even have a few islands that, while they aren’t full of sandy beaches, still offer an escape from the summer heat. This year, head to Minnesota’s own Big Island at Myre-Big Island State Park, where you can take in the beauty of nature and cool off by the water. It’s not Hawaii’s Big Island, but it might just be the next best thing. Here’s what you need to know:

Myre-Big Island State Park is a lovely, 1,800-acre state park in Albert Lea in southern Minnesota. It's around 100 miles south of the Twin Cities.
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There is a lot to do at the park. Besides pitching a tent or camping in one of the cabins, one of the most popular activities is hiking. The park is home to 16 miles of hiking trails.
Dustin Mayfield/Google
The trails lead through some beautiful, lush forest. Many different kinds of trees are represented in the park, including oak, maple, ash, elm, and ironwood. Prairie grasses sprout from the ground alongside native wildflowers.
David Frohman/Google
The park is also home to many animals. White-tailed deer are commonly spotted. Look a little closer and you'll find foxes, opossums, turtles, and frogs. In the sky, several bat species fly at night. Hawks and owls make nests here, and egrets, ducks, and cranes are also commonly spotted in the water.
Ben Cedarberg/Google

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Speaking of water, it is the centerpiece to Myre-Big Island State Park. The park preserves several miles along the banks of Albert Lea Lake, which covers more than 2,500 acres.
Nora Smith/Google
Within the lake is an island known as Big Island. It's easily accessible without a boat via a causeway that connects it to the mainland. Hike to the island to enjoy not only the scenery, but also the cooling waters of Albert Lea Lake.
Daniel Randolph/Google
The Big Island offers beautiful views of the lake with the forests of the mainland visible in the distance. There are even campsites on the island so that you can enjoy it for as long as you like!
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Big Island hosts plenty of places to sit down, have a picnic, cast a line, or simply enjoy the view. You will not regret your visit to Minnesota's own Big Island!
Mike Campbell/Google

Have you ever been to Myre-Big Island State Park? If you’re interested in exploring more of Minnesota’s island life, check out our articles about 7 great islands in Minnesota and a Minnesota private island cabin getaway that you will love.

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Myre-Big Island State Park, 19499 780th Ave, Albert Lea, MN 56007, USA