Lake Byllesby Beach
Lake Byllesby Beach closed
Lake Byllesby Beach is closed for the season due to high E. coli levels.
The beach will not reopen in 2026, but the campground and other park amenities remain open.
County staff collect weekly summer water samples that are tested for E. coli bacteria. Get up-to-date information on results from lake water quality testing.
If you believe you became ill after swimming, contact the Minnesota Department of Health at 1-877-FOOD-ILL (1-877-366-3455). Reports can also be submitted through an online complaint survey.
Visitor information
Lake Byllesby Beach closed
Lake Byllesby Beach is closed for the 2026 season.
Lake Byllesby Beach is a popular spot to relax and have fun on spacious Lake Byllesby Reservoir in Lake Byllesby Regional Park. When closed, wading in the water and sand play is permitted unless otherwise indicated.
Metal detecting with permit is allowed in the designated beach area.
Lake Byllesby water is tested weekly for E. coli during the summer season (Memorial Day-Labor Day) — a standard for metro park agencies. Check E. coli test results.
Fees
None
Amenities
- Restrooms with baby changing station
- Outdoor plaza with firepit
- Outdoor shower
- Picnic area with grills
- Sand volleyball court
- Horseshoe pits
- Nature-themed play area with splash pad
- Next to the Lake Byllesby Campground
- Access to hiking trails
- Nonmotorized boat launch and lake access
- Canoe rental
Beach rules
- Warning: No life guard on duty
- Children must be actively supervised by an adult.
- Swimming is permitted only within designated buoyed area. No open lake swimming.
- Inflatable inner tubes, rafts and loungers are not allowed in the buoyed swimming area.
- Inflatable toys, watercraft and fishing are not permitted in the buoyed swimming area.
- Inflatable or foam noodles, kickboards and all coast guard approved flotation devices are permitted.
- Swim diapers are required for children not toilet trained.
- Pets are not permitted in the beach area.
- Tobacco use (including vaping), campfires, grills and glass containers are not permitted in the beach area.
- Additional rules are in County Ordinance 107 Park Use.
Algae blooms possible
During the summer, Lake Byllesby Reservoir is subject to algae blooms. They can occur at any time throughout the season and depend of many factors. These algae blooms can contain blue-green algae, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
When the algae is present in the lake, we suggest the following:
- Do not swim, waterski, or tube if the water looks like spilled green paint or pea soup
- Avoid swallowing water and watch small children and pets who may ingest water
- Rinse off with clean water after swimming
- Stay away from areas of scum when boating