Enjoy Nature's Playgrounds at the Top 5 Parks Around Apple Valley and Savage

Whether you're out for an invigorating run or just want to lie in the grass with a good book, our local parks are wonderful places to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Check out these beautiful parks near our Springs Twin Cities luxury apartment communities.

1. Kelley Park
6855 Fortino St, Apple Valley
952.953.2300
0.9 miles from Springs at Apple Valley

If you're looking for ways to occupy the kids during summer vacation, Kelley Park is a nice solution. In addition to a large playground with plenty of swings and slides, the park has a refreshing "splash pad" where kids (and parents!) can run through a cooling water spray. Pack a picnic lunch and relax in the shade of one of the many trees on the grounds. Hours are 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

2. Lebanon Hills Regional Park
860 Cliff Rd, Eagan
651.554.6530
7.9 miles from Springs at Apple Valley

There's something for everyone at Lebanon Hills, the largest park in Dakota County. Its nearly 2,000 acres include several lakes for swimming, fishing and canoeing or kayaking as well as miles of trails for biking and hiking. Park information, interactive nature displays and equipment rental are all available at the visitor center. If one day isn't enough, there's a campground for overnight stays. Leashed dogs are welcome too! Hours are 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.

3. Caponi Art Park
1220 Diffley Rd, Eagan
651.454.9412
6.8 miles from Springs at Apple Valley

The beauty of nature and art unite at this unique 60-acre park with miles of trails winding over gently rolling, wooded hills that also form a sculpture garden. Guided tours are offered along with workshops for all ages on printmaking, mixed-media painting and other nature-based art forms. Other park activities include concerts, puppet shows and a medieval fair. CAP is open May 1 through October 31. Visit the website for daily hours.

4. Savage Community Park
13500 Dakota Ave, Savage
952.224.3420
9.1 miles from Springs at Egan Drive

Savage Community Park is a great spot for a family reunion, company picnic or pick-up basketball game. The park's sprawling 55 acres include a lake for fishing and canoeing and facilities for softball, tennis, soccer, basketball and skateboarding. Don't miss the McColl Pond Environmental Learning and Event Center, a 10-acre outdoor classroom and observation area. Hours are 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

5. Lakefront Park
5000 Kop Pkwy SE, Prior Lake
952.447.9800
4.0 miles from Springs at Egan Drive

With its charming pavilion and gazebo, Lakefront Park is a picture-perfect spot straight out of a movie. Fish in Little Prior Lake, take a dip at Watzl's Point Beach or stroll through the community garden. Lakefront Park is also the site of Lakefront Days, the popular annual event that features a parade, carnival rides, live entertainment and games such as the Human Foosball Tournament. This year's festival is scheduled for August 3–5. Park hours are 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Did we miss your favorite park? Tell us about it in the comments below!