Bush Lake
Bush Lake offers a variety of amenities, including the popular summertime spot enjoyed by millions of Minnesotans since 1956–Bush Lake Beach.
With a boat launch, canoeing, picnic shelters and a play area, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy at the park's many facilities. Plus, you're close to all other year-round recreation opportunities through the rest of the Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve.
Rentals and reservations are now available for Bush Lake Park facilities, including park shelters and small watercraft rack rentals.
Daily, 5 AM–10 PM
Cooperative Agreement with the City of Bloomington
As of January 1, 2025, Bush Lake, including Bush Lake Beach, are under the management of Three Rivers Park District as part of a cooperative agreement with the City of Bloomington.
All facilities and amenities included in the cooperative agreement are part of the Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve, where both Three Rivers and the City have historically managed parkland and facilities. This partnership agreement will increase operational efficiency and reduce costs to the public by having one agency oversee all operations and maintenance within the park reserve.
Staff from Three Rivers and the City of Bloomington have been meeting regularly to ensure a smooth transition. There are no anticipated interruptions to amenities or services.
Things to Do
Biking
3.2 miles of paved trails
Pedal along the 3.2 miles of paved trails, perfect for cyclists of all skill levels looking for a scenic ride.
Boating
Launch your boat (up to 6 horsepower) from the convenient public access point at West Bush Lake and spend a day exploring this clear, shallow lake.
The lake's excellent water quality and peaceful setting make it an ideal destination for a relaxing day of boating.
Fishing
Cast your line into Bush Lake's clear waters, home to diverse fish species including walleye, northern pike and largemouth bass.
The lake's excellent water quality, multiple fishing piers and variety of fish make it a prime spot for anglers of all experience levels.
Hiking
5.2 miles of hiking trails
Experience nature at your own pace on the 3.2 miles of paved trails or additional 2 miles of unpaved trails, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding landscape throughout all seasons.
Paddling
Navigate the serene waters of Bush Lake by canoe, paddleboard or kayak, taking in views of the natural shoreline and surrounding park reserve.
Watercraft rentals are available from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day every year. One- and two-person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and the appropriate paddles and life jackets are available to rent through iPaddlePort.
A limited number of small watercraft racks can also be reserved online.
Picnic Areas
Play Areas
Near the beach, the park features a play area where kids can enjoy fun and games between trips to the water.
It’s also great spot for families to relax by the water while children play.
Swimming
Bush Lake's swimming beach offers a refreshing spot to enjoy the clear waters of the lake.
One of the most popular beaches in the state, it's perfect for beachgoers looking to relax, swim or soak up the sun.
Reservations & Rentals
Reservations are available for picnic shelters and small watercraft racks.
How to Make a Reservation
A Three Rivers account is required to make any reservations and can be created online or by calling 763-559-6700.
- Picnic Shelter Rentals
You can make your picnic shelter reservations online or by calling 763-559-6700.
- Watercraft Rack Rentals
You can make your watercraft rack reservations online or by calling 763-559-6700.
- iPaddlePort Equipment Rentals
Bush Lake offers an iPaddlePort self-serve paddle equipment rental station, partially funded through a Hennepin County Youth Sports Grant, containing one- and two-person kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and the appropriate paddles and life jackets.
Reserve paddling equipment through iPaddlePort’s website or via their phone app.
FAQs
- Will Camp Kota still be offered at Bush Lake?
Yes. The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation staff will continue to offer Camp Kota at Bush Lake.
Registration for this program will be available through the City of Bloomington as it has been previously.
- Will there be significant changes to the offerings or operations at Bush Lake?
No. The goal is to keep operations as consistent as possible, making for a seamless transition.
- Does Three Rivers now own the Bush Lake park location?
No. This location is still owned by the City of Bloomington.
Under the cooperative agreement, Three Rivers will manage the operations and maintenance of this regional park location.
- Is this a permanent operational change?
The current cooperative agreement is for five years with opportunity for renewal.
Similar Areas
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
10145 Bush Lake Road
Bloomington, MN 55438
763-694-7687
Anderson Lakes
9800 Anderson Lakes Parkway
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
763-694-7687
Normandale Lake
8401 Chalet Road
Bloomington, MN 55437
763-694-7687
