Perch Lake , Wisconsin

Perch Lake is a spring-fed lake east of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area just inside the Wisconsin border. Around half of Perch Lake is Homestead Parklands, a park operated by St. Croix County , Wisconsin . It includes a parking lot, a swimming beach, picnic areas, canoe and boat rentals, playground, and trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. The lake depths include dive platforms as well as boats. The land area includes steep slopes covered by oak woodlands and pine plantations, as well as open areas of restored prairie and small wetland areas.

Depths to: 90 feet (27 m)

Visibility: 20-30 feet (6-9 m)

Water temperature: A dry suit is recommended.

Aquatic life: Perch, of course, plus bluegill, brook trout, and largemouth bass.

Fees: Daily passes cost $5; annual passes, $25.

On-site amenities: Fishing pier for handicapped anglers, and education and interpretive facilities are provided at four kiosks throughout the park.

More info: Visit www.co.saint-croix.wi.us/Departments/CountyPark/Homestead.htm or call the park superintendent at (715) 549-6515.

Open: From May 1 to November 1.

Getting there: From the Twin Cities (about 21 miles), take Interstate Hwy 94 east 10 miles to Minnesota Highway 95. Proceed north on M-95 six miles to Stillwater . In Stillwater take Minnesota Highway 64 east one-half mile to County Highway E. Travel east on Highway E four miles to Perch Lake Road . Proceed north on Perch Lake Road three-fourths of a mile to the park.