Chester Woods Park celebrates 30 years

Chester Woods Park is turning 30, and Olmsted County invites the community to celebrate this milestone with a full day of family-friendly fun on Saturday, July 12, 2025. Nestled in the blufflands of southeastern Minnesota, Chester Woods Park has served as a beloved outdoor destination since it opened in 1995. 

The 30th anniversary celebration will feature a variety of free events and activities for all ages: 

• 10 a.m. – Wagon rides through scenic trails. 
• 2 p.m. – Cake, informational booths highlighting park history and conservation efforts, and a foam party for kids and families. 
• 6 p.m. – Outdoor concert at the park’s amphitheater featuring The Lonely Knees. 

“This is a celebration of not only Chester Woods Park, but also the community that has supported and enjoyed it for the past 30 years,” said Olmsted County Parks and Trails Director Karlin Ziegler. “We’re excited to welcome people of all ages to our anniversary celebration. We hope you will come to enjoy the natural beauty of the park and learn about the work we do to preserve it for future generations.” 

Chester Woods Park, located at 8378 Highway 14 East in Eyota, spans more than 1,300 acres of rolling hills, native prairie, and hardwood forest. Visitors can enjoy amenities including a swimming beach, boat launch, water equipment rentals, picnic areas, and over 16 miles of hiking trails. A one-mile hard-surfaced trail connects popular destinations within the park, and a track chair is available by reservation for visitors with mobility limitations. 

“Chester Woods is a gem in our park system and a testament to the county’s commitment to conservation and recreation,” said Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Thein. “It’s been a privilege to watch it grow and evolve over the past three decades.” 

Whether you're a long-time visitor or new to the park, the 30th anniversary celebration on July 12 is the perfect opportunity to rediscover all that Chester Woods Park has to offer. Visitors to the park for the anniversary event are encouraged to park near the amphitheater between shelters 3 and 4.