Chester Woods Park

Mission

The mission of Olmsted County Parks is to foster an appreciation of the natural world through environmental education, natural resource management, and public participation in the stewardship of our park lands. 

Vision

Learning life-long lessons in natural places. 

All County Parks buildings are currently closed until further notice, including the Oxbow Park Nature Center, Zollman Zoo and Park Offices.  All classes and education programs will also be cancelled through May 4, 2020. 

Park Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Beach Hours: 

Memorial Day-Labor Day

Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Friday - Saturday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Sunday - 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Beach is closed for the season

Watercraft Rental Hours:  

Daily: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Horse Trails are closed for the season.

Campground is closed for the season 

Are mobility issues keeping you from enjoying Chester Woods Park?  We have a trac chair available for check out if you have mobility issues.  This would allow you to enjoy Chester Woods Park and all it has to offer.  Please call the park to reserve.

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All vehicles entering the park are required to display either an annual or daily entrance permit/park pass. Annual or daily entrance permits, rentals, or camping fees can be paid for at the park entrance by cash, check or credit card.

$5.00 daily or $25.00 annually.
$5.00 daily or $20.00 annually for Senior Citizens
(65 or older).

Park passes may be purchased at Chester Woods Park or at 2122 Campus Dr SE, Suite 200.

Disabled American Veterans get in free of charge.  Please call the Veterans Service Office: 507 328-6355

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On July 19, 2017 Chester Woods was hit by an EF0 to EF1 tornado, along with straight line winds.  Below are some photos of the damage that Chester Woods Parks sustained during the storm.

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Chester Woods Park is located on the headwaters of Bear Creek in the rugged bluff country of Southeastern Minnesota.  There are approximately 12 miles of primitive trails winding through a variety of inviting natural habitats in the undeveloped areas of the park.  A mile long hard surfaced trail links the campground, boat launch, fishing pier, and picnic areas.  Motor vehicles and bicycles are restricted to improved roads and designated trails only.

• Purchased from private developers to assist in the flood control project for the City of Rochester, Chester Woods was finished in late 1994. Federal funding was used in the construction of the park and dam. Total cost of the project was approximately $5,000,000.

Flora and Fauna

• Whitetail Deer

• Wild Turkeys

• Remnant Communities of native prairie plants are scattered throughout the park. These remnants are managed to reduce invasion by other species and encourage propagation of the prairie. 

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Chester Woods Park
8378 Highway 14 East
Eyota, MN 55934
Phone: 507 328-7350
or
Email: chesterwoods@co.olmsted.mn.us 

 Clean Rochester's Water One Garden At A Time

The link above takes you to the Rochester Stormwater website where you can learn about making a 'rain' garden.