Oakdale offers so many ways to get outdoors, try something new, or just unwind in nature. Whether you’re flying solo, enjoying time with family, or spending an afternoon with friends—there’s something here, all year round.
Parks & Nature Preserves: Your Outdoor Playgrounds
Oakdale Nature Preserve & Discovery Center – This 200-acre gem at 4444 Hadley Avenue N includes paved hiking & biking trails, a boardwalk, lake views, picnicking, playgrounds, tennis & basketball courts, plus a forest garden. The Discovery Center adds educational touches: live beehives, rotating art exhibits, binocular and backpack rentals, and activity programs for all ages. Park hours are daily, sunrise to sunset.
Walton Park – Situated at City Hall, this park is a hub for entertainment in warmer months: farmers’ markets, concerts, movies in the park, and the city’s big Summerfest celebration happen here. Great place for casual walks, shelter rentals, or relaxing by the green space.
Tanners Lake Park & Oakdale Bark Park – Tanners Lake features a boat launch (under 10 HP motors), beach area, and scenic spots for water-side strolls. For dog owners, the Bark Park offers a chance to let dogs roam off-leash while still playing by the sunrise/sunset hours of the parks.
Trails, Activities & Hidden Gems
Trails & Walk Programs – Oakdale has 50+ parks and over 50 miles of trails and sidewalks. For a goal-oriented outing, join the “Community Walk” which tracks walking mileage in the Nature Preserve for rewards. Also try the Tree Trek program: identify native trees as you walk.
Rentals & Learning – The Discovery Center makes exploring easy and fun: borrow binoculars, walking poles, or getaway packs with guidebooks. They also offer seasonal options like snowshoe rentals in winter.
Picnic Shelters & Event Spaces – Planning a gathering? Reserve one of Oakdale’s picnic shelters. Small shelters host up to ~60 people; large ones and the Walton Park band shell can accommodate bigger groups and include kitchens. Reservations open in early spring through fall.
Indoor & Family-Friendly Options
Discovery Center Indoor Spaces – When weather forces you inside, the Discovery Center still shines: aquarium, art gallery with rotating local artists, beekeeping display, and cozy spaces for cards or crafts.
Other Attractions – Want something different? Head to Sky Zone for trampoline and fitness fun, catch a movie at Marcus Oakdale Cinema, or try Oak Marsh Golf Course for a relaxed round outdoors.
Tips for Planning Your Next Visit
- Check availability before you go: shelters and trails tend to fill up on weekends.
- Dress for the weather—layers are key in Minnesota.
- Leashed pets allowed in parks (except beaches); Oakdale Bark Park is the place for off-leash fun.
- Permits can be required (for shelters, keg beer, certain events)—plan ahead.
No matter what your pace or preferences, Oakdale offers ways to pause, explore, and make ordinary weekends feel a little more special.