What used to be old mining pits and rock deposit stockpiles, was reformed into one of the newest state recreational parks in Minnesota. Over 30 years ago, the pits were filled with crystal clear waters stocked with trout and a variety of vegetation that has attracted many wildlife species. The area contains six natural lakes, plus an additional 15 deep lakes that were former mine pits with 25 miles of shoreline that can be explored by boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle. The Cuyuna Rec State Park is most known for its red dirt trails for mountain and fat biking, scuba diving, trout fishing, and canoeing.