Lake McCarrons County Park — Attraction in Roseville

Here's what you need to know: Parking: Lot Age range (playground): 1+ Sidewalks: Paved to play area, picnic shelter, dock, and through the park (but not to the beach) Seating: Limited benches by play area Bathrooms: Located in picnic shelter Picnic tables: Several in picnic shelter with more by the beach and dock areas Grills: Located in picnic shelter and by the beach and dock areas Sports field: Open fields; dock for fishing

Lake McCarrons County Park is a good-sized park located off a busy street near the border of Roseville and Saint Paul. Even with how busy it gets (and trust me: it gets busy), there's always parking available.

The nearest park amenities to the parking lot are the picnic shelter and, a short walk from there, the playground.

If you're considering hosting a party here (it's a pretty nice shelter that seats around 50 people), either make reservations through the county or arrive super early to call dibs. Take my word for it that evening hours here, especially during the weekends and holidays, are super busy.

The play area is laid with mulch and has a playground and swing set. One feature I appreciate about the McCarrons' playground is that one end is perfect for walking tots and the other for skilled climbers. Kids of all ages can enjoy the play space.

A couple minutes' walk past the picnic shelter and pavilion is the beach. It's newest feature is a sand and water play area. While there's a life guard post, I've never seen one on duty during any of our visits.

McCarrons Lake is a naturally-occurring lake. This means if you're planning on swimming, don't be surprised by fish and other lake critters (no leeches in my experience!).

The park includes a beach front and a dock for fishing. Most of the lake, however, is private property belonging to Roseville residents. We've seen dogs swim across the lake and hang out in the park. If you're not fond of dogs, just be aware that there might be an escapee running loose.

For those who are interested in fishing, most of what you'll catch are sunfish. We have, however, also caught crappie here.

I love that McCarrons has an overflow of grilling space and picnic areas. I feel most parks aren't well-stocked in this way. I also like how these cooking areas are spread out across the park instead of all in one area (who would picnic that close to strangers?).

Because this park is located near the border of Saint Paul and Roseville, this park isn't as clean as most Roseville parks (I didn't even know it was a Roseville park until I looked it up). You can basically find litter or uncleaned picnic areas throughout the park.

Additionally, and I'm guessing it's because of the lake, there are a ton of geese here. It only follows that there's also a ton of geese poop. On the grass, in picnic areas, on the beach, even in the lake. No matter how careful I am, some of it always ends up stuck to a wheel of the wagon.

Furthermore, the company isn't always friendly-looking. My kiddos and I only ever visit by ourselves or with friends during the morning hours. If you're planning to go in the evening hours, make sure you go with others--or...

Spent time there for about an hour with my father. We grabbed McDonalds food from down the road a little ways and parked in the parking lot. We got out of the car briefly to enjoy the day. Did not get to walk around and enjoy the park as we would have liked as we were in the area looking at apartment options to move to within the next 60ish days.

The park looked very clean. I cannot speak on the bathrooms or the gazebo like picnic area, nor the trails or lake itself. Looks as if there is a large playground for children (and any daring adults) that would take hours out of the day.

I plan to return in the near future to experience this local park in its full extent. It was a positive experience watching others having fun and enjoying the 70° weather- even freely dancing to thier own musical beat. Looking forward to exploring and enjoying more beautiful parks in Minnesota through the...

Small but very beautiful lake with ample picnic facilities, toilets, shelter, sandy beach, kid's playground and lifeguards on rotational duty. At a brisk stride can walk around entirely about 30 minutes. Lovely views all year round. Draws a steady stream of fishermen at the edges, on the fishermen's jetty and on small boats further from shore. Soon as it gets sunny you'll see many small families with kids driving here for some nice fresh air in the middle of the city. The neighborhood has a strong SEA ethnic flavor and on some weekends might be lucky enough to see some very colorful celebrations with beautiful young people in dress costumes. Check...