For the most part, Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are filled with all of the attractions you’d expect. They’re have waterfalls, beaches, hiking trails, and endless lakes. But there are a few unique state parks and recreation area that stand out from the rest. Some, like Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, provide homes for a huge variety of animals. Others, like Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, take you deep below ground. And still others, like Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, are full of unique activities beyond the typical swimming, fishing, and nature hikes. Below, read all about what makes this state recreation area stand out among the rest:

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is a 2,700-acre area in Crow Wing County. It's about 15 miles northeast of Brainerd.
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For many years, this land was home to some of the mining operations common in northern Minnesota. But when mining stopped, the state took over, creating a beautiful recreation area for all to enjoy.
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The land is being allowed to heal, with huge forests growing where there was once bare earth. Many of the lakes in the area are manmade mining lakes. But they've been filled and are now thriving ecosystems for many types of animals.
Rayees Mirza/Google

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When you visit, you can see these lakes for yourself. One, the Portsmouth Mine Pit Lake, is one of the deepest lakes completely within Minnesota. It's more than 450 feet deep!
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There is fishing and swimming in these lakes. But there's also a unique activity: scuba diving! The clear waters of Alstead Mine Lake make it a popular spot to dive and spot wildlife.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The lakes aren't the only thing that make Cuyuna Country great. The recreation area is also crisscrossed with several mountain bike trails.
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The trails cross several miles of the park, and they'll take you to some beautiful sights. If you're looking for a little adventure, a trip to Cuyuna Country State Recreation area may be in order!
John Wickham/Google

Have you heard of Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area? What other nature areas do you enjoy in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments!

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Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, 3rd Street, Ironton, MN, USA