Big Marine Park Reserve Master Plan Update – MN

Big Marine Park Reserve has been part of the regional park vision in Washington County for more than four decades, originating with the Metropolitan Council’s 1967 Park Acquisition Plan and the 1967 Washington County Comprehensive Plan. These foundational documents laid the groundwork for preserving open space and creating public access to the natural beauty of Big Marine Lake.

An official Master Plan for Big Marine Regional Park Reserve was adopted in 1988, based on the Park Reserve classification set by the Metropolitan Council. This classification limits active recreation to no more than 20 percent of the total park area, preserving the remaining land for natural resource protection and passive recreation. The park is one of eight designated regional landscape types across the metro area.

Since the original plan, Washington County has steadily acquired land to support long-term park development. As of the latest update, 636 acres of the planned 1,920-acre reserve have been secured, enough to begin meaningful development. SRF worked with Washington County to update the master plan and lead schematic design and implementation of the first phase of park improvements, which included:

• A new swim beach facility with family picnic areas, shelters, parking, and a playground
• Large group picnic and gathering areas
• Modern and flexible campground facilities, including RV, group, and primitive camping options
• A boat launch with supporting parking areas
• New entrance road, park drive, and internal circulation infrastructure
• A connected trail network for walking and biking
• Restoration of native plant communities, woodlands, and wetland habitats
• Stormwater management using bioretention basins and swales to reduce runoff

This initial phase not only enhances recreational access but also sets the stage for future development aligned with the original vision for Big Marine Park Reserve, balancing ecological preservation with high-quality public amenities.

Resource Links:
Big Marine Park Reserve – St Croix, MN
Washington County Parks

Internal Categories:
Parks, Trails & Recreation
Community Planning

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Saint Paul, MN