The best way to explore the largest peat bog in the Lower 48 is a mile-long boardwalk extending out into its unique environment. Many call this Minnesota peatland bog the state’s last true wilderness.
Big Bog State Recreation Area and the surrounding region, including Red Lake Peatland SNA, comprise the largest such bog in the country, outside of Alaska. Its unique and wild environment makes Big Bog an awesome destination for adventure.
Justin B/TripAdvisor This Minnesota peatland bog is a unique ecosystem that requires high levels of acidity. Although it’s a water-reliant environment, rain is typically the only source of moisture in a bog.
A mile-long boardwalk - resulting in a two-mile out-and-back hike - allows you to explore deep into the bog.
Trent Jonas
The boardwalk offers an interpretation of each sub-ecosystem as you pass through it.
Wyatt W. Penke/Google Reviews
You’ll pass through stunted spruce forests and open peatlands as you make your way into the bog.
Trent Jonas
Your bog adventure will introduce you to several specialist species that rely on the bog environment for survival, such as the carnivorous pitcher plant.
Trent Jonas Many other rare or threatened bog specialists make their home here, like sundews, bog rush, and yellow-eyed grass.
The vast peatland bog also hosts bird species like the great gray owl and Connecticut warbler.
David Dahmes/Google Reviews Moose, wolves, fox, and black bears live in the bog, as well.
The park’s South Unit takes you away from the bog and offers plenty of recreational opportunities.
David Dahmes/Google Reviews Climb the 100-foot fire tower, hike through the woods along Upper Red Lake, or enjoy some of the area’s fantastic fishing.
The beach on Upper Red Lake - one of Minnesota’s biggest lakes - has been called one of the best in the country.
Trent Jonas
A campground with winterized camper cabins can also be found near the park headquarters at the South Unit of Big Bog State Recreation Area.
Lara V/Google Reviews
Have you had the opportunity to visit Big Bog or one of Minnesota’s other unique bog environments?
Justin B/TripAdvisor
This Minnesota peatland bog is a unique ecosystem that requires high levels of acidity. Although it’s a water-reliant environment, rain is typically the only source of moisture in a bog.
Trent Jonas
Wyatt W. Penke/Google Reviews
Many other rare or threatened bog specialists make their home here, like sundews, bog rush, and yellow-eyed grass.
David Dahmes/Google Reviews
Moose, wolves, fox, and black bears live in the bog, as well.
Climb the 100-foot fire tower, hike through the woods along Upper Red Lake, or enjoy some of the area’s fantastic fishing.
Lara V/Google Reviews
If you do travel to the area, be sure to visit Zippel Bay State Park on Lake of the Woods.
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Address: Big Bog State Recreation Area Southern Unit, 55716 MN-72, Waskish, MN 56685, USA
