Sherburne County residents and visitors should be aware of upcoming adjustments to the Eagle Lake public water access near the city of Big Lake. Starting May 1, the access will be temporarily closed to reconfigure the site to address a property line encroachment in the parking area.
The reconfiguration will reduce the number of parking spaces at the site from 14 to five. In conjunction with the reconfiguration, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will be more clearly delineating the parking spaces to enhance safety. In addition to parking changes, the boat ramp will be relocated to improve backing, turning, and launching efficiency. Access to the parking and launch area will be through a single designated entrance from County Road 75. Boaters should note that parking along County Road 75 is not allowed.
The PWA will be closed during the reconfiguration but will reopen in time for the start of the fishing season on May 10, with the updated ramp and parking adjustments. Signs at the site will provide project information, or the public can call the DNR Sauk Rapids Area office at 320-223-7861.
Boaters intending to use the Eagle Lake PWA once it reopens are encouraged to plan ahead, given the reduced availability of parking. Options like carpooling or arriving early may help alleviate potential parking shortages. Nearby PWA sites on lakes and rivers in Sherburne County include Big Lake, Little Elk Lake, Briggs Lake, Julia Lake, Rush Lake, Camp Lake, Clearwater-Mississippi, Mississippi Babcock, Snuffies Landing, and Lake Orono. A full listing of PWAs can be found on the DNR website.
The Minnesota DNR will continue to explore options to add more parking at this PWA. For updates, or to share ideas for solutions, please call the DNR area office at 320-223-7861.