The best things are (nearly) free...

So this summer we decided that we are going to spend a lot of time at the beach. (or as close to a beach as you can be in MN!) It's so relaxing, and can be really cheap! We found the perfect spot in Maple Grove at the Elm Creek Park Reserve's Swimming pond. It is a clorinated man-made pond with sand all around. It is smaller, but it is nice, and I like the lake effect with the treated water! They have changing rooms, a rinse station, and a snack booth. There are lifeguards on duty every day from noon to 8pm. There are huge umbrella shelters there to lay out under so you don't have to bring your own.

Cost: $3 per person, per day OR you can get a season pass for a family of 4 for $20! Just going two times more than pays for the season pass, so that is what we did. We have been there 5 times already, so it was so worth it! Parking is ample, and free.
This particular beach has water bottles that you can buy for $1 as well, and if you bring them back, they will refill with water for free, anytime. So, that was a good buy as well.

We may not be by the ocean or a huge lake, but the kids still have fun in the sand and water, and we still can relax on the sand under the shade. Bring a picnic, and you couldn't ask for a more perfect day!


Season pass for beach....$20. Making for PB&J's....$5. A whole day in the sand and sun with family....priceless!