Best lakes around Faribault, Minnesota, offers a diverse natural landscape with ten lakes located within a ten-mile radius. This region provides various recreational opportunities for visitors. The lakes are known for their fishing, boating, and swimming options, contributing to the area's outdoor appeal.
Last updated: August 6, 2026
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They cleared out a ton of trees along the shoreline by the main parking area that is right off the highway. Not sure why, but it does make the views of the lake nice!
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It was very green on the lake tonight and someone threw some fish somewhere, I couldn't find them, but the smell of rotting fish was strong in the air. Aside from that, it's a nice place to stop on a bike ride.
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A fishing dock with no one on it tonight. One person parked in the lot when I got there, but they headed out.
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Dam that creates a small lake out of the Cannon River, guessing it used to be part of a mill called Kings by it's name. A lot of people fish the river here. Small picnic shelter and a fishing dock on the other side of the bridge.
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The cormorants have taken over this island, they flock here by the hundreds and they are killing it off as they do. I had someone to the south of the island start shooting at the cormorants as I was trying to paddling around it, that didn't feel to safe. Some kind of small caliber rifle, like a 22. Strange device for hunting these birds which are on the endangered list or something. Wasn't sure if it was some kind of automated defense system, never saw the shooter.
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Park is little more than a parking lot, rough grass field and a boat launch, but it'll get you on the water.
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Nice little fishing park on the north side of Cannon Lake. I thought you used to be able to launch a boat here, but it doesn't look like it anymore. Named for a family that used to have a store on the lake.
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Nice looking launch on Cannon Lake right by the Sakatah trail and you can cut through a small section of woods and ride a nice quiet road around the lake.
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Faribault's lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. For Muskie, French Lake is particularly known. Cannon Lake is a popular spot for walleye, yellow perch, and crappie. Cedar Lake is managed for Black Crappie, Bluegill, and Largemouth Bass, while Roberds Lake is good for walleye, crappie, and sunfish. Lake Mazaska is noted for crappie, sunfish, and largemouth bass, often referred to as 'Bass heaven'.
Yes, several lakes offer swimming. Cannon Lake features shoreside beaches, including at Shager Memorial Park, which has swimming access. Resorts on Cannon Lake, like Winjum's Shady Acres, also provide sandy beaches. Roberds Lake has swimming beaches, often associated with resorts, and Cedar Lake also allows swimming.
Many lakes around Faribault are equipped with boat ramps and ample parking. Cannon Lake has multiple boating ramps, including a launch near the Cannon Lake highlight, which features a large parking lot. Ackman Park also serves as a boat launch on Cannon Lake. For Circle Lake, the Circle Lake Boat Launch provides a nice launch with a big parking lot.
The lakes are perfect for a variety of water sports. You can enjoy boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on lakes like French Lake and Cannon Lake. Many resorts and campgrounds around the lakes offer boat rentals, making it easy to get out on the water.
Absolutely. Cannon Lake is very family-friendly, with Cannon Lake highlight offering a swimming beach, picnic area, and large parking. Ackman Park, also on Cannon Lake, is another family-friendly spot to view the lake. Resorts on lakes like Cannon and Roberds often provide amenities suitable for families, such as cabins and game rooms.
For birdwatching and a serene natural experience, French Lake is an excellent choice. Its clear waters and peaceful atmosphere make it ideal for observing local wildlife and enjoying the vibrant fall foliage. The general area around Faribault's ten lakes offers diverse natural landscapes.
Yes, ice fishing is a popular winter activity on several Faribault lakes. French Lake is known for year-round fishing opportunities, including ice fishing. Roberds Lake is also a popular spot for ice fishing, particularly for crappie.
Yes, there are scenic routes near the lakes. The Autumn glory trail segment offers a beautiful ride with views of the surrounding nature. Cannon Lake is also located near the Sakatah trail, providing opportunities for cycling and walking. You can find more routes and tours in the Faribault area on the main guide page.
French Lake stands out for its crystal-clear waters and hard, sandy bottom, making it excellent for water-based activities. It's particularly renowned for Muskie fishing and offers a healthy population of walleye, northern pike, and bass. Its serene atmosphere is also perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and enjoying the vibrant fall foliage.
Cannon Lake is a diverse fishery. Anglers can expect to catch walleye, yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, northern pike, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Walleye are especially predominant and known for their fast growth rates in this lake.
Yes, several lakes offer accommodations directly on their shores. For example, Winjum's Shady Acres Campgrounds & Resort is located on Cannon Lake, providing rustic cabins, boat rentals, and a sandy beach. Roberds Lake Resort & Campgrounds offers direct lake access, camping sites, cabins, and boat rentals on Roberds Lake. The Lodge on Lake Mazaska also provides great views and an on-site restaurant and bar.
Water clarity varies among the lakes. French Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters. In contrast, Cedar Lake is known for poorer water clarity and occasional algae blooms, though it still supports quality fish habitat. Most lakes offer good conditions for recreational activities.


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