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.
Learning life-long lessons in natural places.
Park Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Campground is Open for the season
2017 Campground Season will open Friday, May 19th and close Sunday, October 15th
Beach Hours:
Memorial Day-Labor Day 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Beach is Now Closed for the season
Watercraft Rental Hours:
Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Friday - Sunday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Horse Trails are Open for the season
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On July 19th, 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.
Press Release Volunteers for Chester Woods (40 KB)
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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.
Chester Woods Park 8378 Highway 14 East Eyota, MN 55934 Phone: 507 285-7050 or Email: chesterwoods@co.olmsted.mn.us
Chester Woods Park Brochure (1.37 KB)
Useful Links
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.
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).
Disabled American Veterans get in free of charge. Please call the Veterans Service Office at 507-328-6355 to get your pass.
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