Zippel Bay State Park Well

## Overview Zippel Bay State Park Well is a public drinking water well located within Zippel Bay State Park in Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota. The park sits along the southern shore of Lake of the Woods, one of the largest freshwater lakes in North America, and the well provides a convenient water source for visitors exploring this remote and scenic corner of the state. Zippel Bay State Park encompasses over 2,900 acres of diverse habitat, including sandy beaches, birch and aspen forests, wetlands, and rocky shoreline. The park is well known for its beautiful sand beach — one of the finest on Lake of the Woods — and the well is situated nearby, making it an easy stop for beachgoers and campers alike. The area has long been valued by the Ojibwe people and later by European settlers for its abundant fishing and wild rice. Today, the park is a popular destination for walleye fishing, birdwatching (including sightings of piping plovers, a threatened species that nests on the beach), and winter activities like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The well water has historically been used as a drinking water source by park visitors, though water quality can vary and visitors should use their own discretion. ## Directions 1. From the town of Williams, MN, head north on County Road 8 (also known as Zippel Park Road). 2. Continue north for approximately 9–10 miles. The road leads directly into Zippel Bay State Park. 3. Follow park signs to the beach area. The well is located near the main beach facilities. 4. GPS coordinates: **48.8666, -94.8490**. A Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is required for entry. ## What to Expect The well is conveniently located near the park's main beach area, so you can fill up while enjoying the sweeping views of Lake of the Woods. The beach itself features fine sand and is one of the most picturesque spots in northern Minnesota. The surrounding parkland is quiet and relatively uncrowded, especially outside of peak summer weekends. Zippel Bay State Park is located in a remote part of Minnesota, about 10 miles north of the small town of Williams and roughly 50 miles northwest of Baudette. Cell service can be limited in the area, so plan accordingly. The park offers a campground, picnic shelters, and hiking trails in addition to the beach. Seasonal availability of the well may vary — during winter months, the well and some park facilities may be closed or inaccessible. Summer is the best time to visit for full access to the beach and well. Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for piping plovers along the shoreline, and anglers will find excellent walleye and sauger fishing in the adjacent waters of Lake of the Woods.