Water Activities

Owatonna offers a variety of ways to cool off, including water parks, lakes, and a picturesque river. River Springs Water Park features water slides, a lazy river, and a climbing wall. For year-round enjoyment, visit the Great Serengeti Indoor Water Park with its slides and play areas. Relax at Lake Kohlmier Beach and spend the afternoon floating on the lake. You can also paddle down the Straight River, a designated State Water Trail.

STRAIGHT RIVER

The Straight River, a designated State Water Trail, winds its way through Owatonna for 55 miles. In winter, the frozen river transforms into a natural ice rink, attracting both seasoned and amateur skaters. Featured in Explore Minnesota’s picks for outdoor rinks, you can rent skates at the Warsinksi Chalet in Morehouse Park near downtown Owatonna.

When the weather warms up, enjoy kayaking or canoeing down the river. Pick up a trail guide at the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

Did you know the Straight River flows north from Owatonna to Faribault, featuring class I, II, and III rapids along the way? This makes for a unique and exciting Minne-Road trip through the farmland of Southern Minnesota!

LAKE KOHLMIER
Location: 18th Street SW/Mosher Avenue
www.ci.owatonna.mn.us
Operations: Open May-September

For a relaxing day, lounge on the beach at Lake Kohlmier. You can fish off the docks, have a picnic, or go canoeing. Take a stroll on the nearby trails through the beautiful local parks system.