Mina Lake Recreation Area

Mina Lake Recreation Area is a water-lovers haven nestled 12 miles West of Aberdeen off US highway 12. The recreational area sits on 300 acres of land by the shores of Mina Lake which is in a wooded area. You are allowed to bring your pets to the recreational area and you can specifically bring your dog along with you for some fun, relaxation, and exercise. Your dog will not be charged an additional fee for admission into the park.

The central attraction of the recreational area is the lake which was constructed in the 1930s in the North East of Dakota to provide relief during times of severe drought. The dam was completed in 1934 and was initially named ‘Shake Maza’, a phrase in the Native American Lakota language meaning "shaped like a horseshoe." The name did not catch on and the name of the lake was later renamed Mina to honor the railroad president’s daughter.

Some of the attractions that the Mina Lake Recreational Area is popular for include swimming, camping, fishing, boating, canoeing/kayaking, volleyball, hiking. The amenities at the recreational area available to facilitate these activities include the beach, 37 modern campsites (36 of which have electrical hookups), campground, camping cabins, picnic shelter, lodge, playground, boat ramp, fishing dock, fishing pole checkout, game check out, drinking water, dump station, flush toilets/showers, and vault toilets.

When you bring your dog to the park, there are some rules that need to be observed. First, you must never leave your dog unattended to and you must always keep your dog on a 10-foot leash at all times. Additionally, you must always maintain immediate control of your dog and you must not let your dog get closer than 200 feet from other visitors at the park. This means keeping your dog away from buildings and around designated swimming areas. That said, you can bring your doggie to tent and camp areas. Finally, you must always clean up after your dog so be sure to bring some poop bags for your convenience.