Located on the scenic shores of Medicine Lake in Plymouth, Moraine Picnic Area offers generous space for up to 200 guests, complete with covered shelters, large grills, and nearby restrooms. In winter, it becomes a peaceful base for snow play and cozy outdoor meals amid Minnesota’s crisp landscapes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 12605 Rockford Rd, Plymouth, MN 55441 |
| Hours | Open year-round, sunrise to sunset |
| Facilities | Picnic tables, large barbecue grills, restrooms |
| Notes | Shelter may not be available for rental in winter—use open areas for picnics; dogs must be on leash and are prohibited on ski trails |
Moraine Picnic Area stands out in French Regional Park for its roomy layout and convenient amenities, making it a top choice for gatherings near Medicine Lake. The covered shelter (available for reservation in warmer months) includes electricity, water, and oversized grills, while open grassy spaces welcome casual picnickers. Winter transforms the surrounding park into a snowy playground with lighted sledding hills, groomed cross-country ski trails, and dedicated snowshoe paths—all easily reachable from this central spot.
Plan ahead the evening before your visit: pack hearty sandwiches, fresh fruit, thermos-filled hot soup, and portable barbecue favorites along with charcoal. Load everything into the versatile cargo space of your Tara Explorer 2+2—its compact cooler keeps cocoa, drinks, and perishables perfectly chilled for the short drive.
French Regional Park remains fully open throughout winter, with Moraine Picnic Area accessible for day-use picnics even when the shelter isn’t rented. Expect crisp temperatures and possible snow cover; the park’s groomed trails and lighted sledding hill are typically well-maintained. A daily vehicle permit ($7) or annual pass ($35) is required for parking.
9:00 AM – Arrival
Drive your Tara Explorer 2+2 to the main entrance and park near the Visitor Center. Arrive early to enjoy the best morning light and secure a good spot.
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Creative Play Area Adventure
Head straight to the park’s award-winning Creative Play Area, featuring massive climbing nets, towers, long slides, and toddler zones. Even in winter, the structures stay open and take on extra excitement with a dusting of snow—kids (and adults) love the challenge and fresh air.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Picnic Lunch
Walk or drive the short distance to Moraine Picnic Area. Claim an open table or spread blankets on the snow-free spots. Unpack warm soup, sandwiches, hot chocolate, and grilled items (bring a portable grill for convenience). The quiet winter setting and nearby lake views create a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Snow Activities and Trails
If snow conditions allow, hit the lighted sledding hill near the Visitor Center (non-saucer sleds only). Rent or bring snowshoes for the dedicated 0.9-mile trail and 30-acre open area, or explore groomed cross-country ski trails (5.8 miles, lighted and daily maintained). Leashed dogs can join on their own 4.6-mile trail system. For a gentler option, stroll the lakeshore paths to admire the frozen expanse.
4:00 PM onward – Departure
Pack up by late afternoon, carry out all trash, and drive home before darkness and colder temperatures settle in.
Moraine Picnic Area combines generous picnic facilities with French Regional Park’s outstanding winter recreation, delivering memorable family moments in Minnesota’s beautiful snowy season.
