Member Meetings
Lake Zumbro Improvement Association (LZIA) holds two annual membership meetings. Come to hear important information firsthand from Lake Zumbro’s community partners and LZIA committees.
Fall Meeting – Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Mac’s Park Place. Social Hour – 6 pm. Meeting – 7 pm.
- CLICK HERE for the 2026 Fall meeting agenda.
- CLICK HERE for the 2026 Spring meeting minutes.
Events
Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup
Saturday, October 17 @ 10 am. Join a team of volunteers to clean up two miles of White Bridge Road. Meet at the intersection of White Bridge Road and 18th Ave NW. Hi-vis vests and trash bags provided.
______________________________
Member Meetings
Lake Zumbro Improvement Association (LZIA) holds two annual membership meetings. Come to hear important information firsthand from Lake Zumbro’s community partners and LZIA committees.
Spring Meeting – Thursday, May 21, 2026, at The Pondy. Social Hour – 6 pm. Meeting – 7 pm. The agenda will be emailed to members two weeks prior.
Fall Meeting – Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Mac’s Park Place. Social Hour – 6 pm. Meeting – 7 pm. The agenda will be emailed to members two weeks prior.
Boating
King’s Marina, located at 40 Shorewood Lane NE, Rochester, MN, sits on the Zumbro River just north of Rochester in Zumbro Falls. This full-service marina boasts about 65 slips and well-maintained docks, providing convenient access for both powerboats and paddlecraft. Visitors frequently praise the friendly, accommodating atmosphere and appreciate the relaxed midweek environment, making it a peaceful retreat for anglers and leisure boaters alike. (kingsmarinamn@gmail.com)
Boulder Dam Canoe & Kayak Rental, located at 20 East Center Street, Oronoco, MN, operates at Boulder Dam on the Middle Fork of the Zumbro River. They specialize in paddlecraft adventures, offering scenic 3‑mile and 9‑mile float trips from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with reservation-only trips outside that period . Trips include shuttle service and wind through wooded valleys with gentle rapids before opening into Lake Zumbro, offering wildlife viewing opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts (boulderdamcanoe.com).
Boater Responsibility and Wake Awareness
Under Minnesota law, any damage your wake causes is treated the same as a collision. Personal watercraft (jet skis) must stay at least 150 feet from shore. While boats don’t have a set distance requirement, staying 200 feet or more from shore and structures helps reduce wake damage—especially for boats that create large, artificial wakes.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Assign a lookout to watch for other boats, swimmers, or obstacles. When crossing wakes, go slow and stay alert for people being towed. Obey all posted signs, including no-wake zones and speed limits.
Avoid operating near shorelines, docks, and riverbanks. High speeds in shallow water can cause erosion and habitat damage. Boats should not operate in less than 2.5 feet of water. Travel slowly near shore and avoid backing into banks or beaches. Always check for local rules, closures, or permits, and ask permission before entering private land.
To reduce your impact, avoid running the same route repeatedly. Keep noise to a minimum, be courteous to others, and share the water respectfully.
Environmental Impact of Wakes
Large wakes can erode shorelines, stir up sediment, and destroy shoreline vegetation—damaging water quality and wildlife habitat. These effects are worse when water levels are high. Boaters should reduce speed and wake near shore to help protect the environment and preserve the lake for everyone.
Restaurants
RESTAURANTS
Mac’s Park Place, located at 57444 406th Ave, Mazeppa, MN, is a casual bar and grill situated just below the Lake Zumbro Dam. Known for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it serves up local favorites like burgers, wings, and rotating daily specials. The outdoor patio offers scenic views of the river, making it a great spot to unwind with a drink after a day on the water. Frequent live music, meat raffles, and community events make it a go-to gathering place for both locals and visitors looking for a laid-back social experience with great food and conversation.
Uncle John’s Bar & Grill, located at 12510 Oak Lodge Ln NE, Rochester, MN, is a well-loved neighborhood spot just minutes from Lake Zumbro. It’s known for hearty Midwestern comfort food, including broasted chicken, burgers, and classic fish fries. The friendly service and relaxed setting make it a favorite for both locals and travelers. With a full bar, salad bar, and generous portions, it’s the kind of place where guests feel at home—perfect for a casual dinner, group outing, or catching up with friends over a good meal.
Supporting small businesses like these is vital to the health and character of the Lake Zumbro community. Locally owned restaurants and bars not only provide unique food and atmosphere, but they also reinvest in the local economy, create jobs, and build connections among neighbors. Whether it’s grabbing a burger at Mac’s or sharing comfort food at Uncle John’s, every visit helps preserve the charm and vitality of the region. These establishments reflect the spirit of the area and thrive thanks to the continued support of residents and visitors who choose to spend locally.
Fishing
Fishing on Lake Zumbro requires all anglers to carry a valid Minnesota fishing license, which covers the period from March 1 through the following February 28/29 and is necessary for both residents and non‑residents. Anglers must follow statewide inland fishing regulations, including observing size and bag limits, seasonal restrictions, and approved fishing methods. Spearing and other non-permitted methods are prohibited, and all posted private or agricultural tracts around the lake must not be entered without permission. (dnr.state.mn.us)
Lake Zumbro hosts a variety of gamefish species—such as bluegill, black crappie, channel catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and stocked walleye fingerlings—under general statewide regulations. There are no lake-specific slot limits or special possession rules, so standard statewide limits apply: for example, two walleye daily and a combined panfish limit typically capped at 10 (with no more than five crappies). Special catch-and-release zones apply upstream of the Zumbro Lake Dam for smallmouth bass, but the main lake body is not designated as catch-and-release.
Boaters and anglers must also observe designated no-wake zones—especially near the dam and boat launches at Lake Zumbro Park—and may use ADA-accessible piers for shore fishing. Winter anglers can ice fish under the same statewide regulations, though boaters and ice shacks must follow county rules and leave temporary structures overnight unless DNR-permitted. Anglers should check the Minnesota Department of Health’s fish consumption advisories, as some species in Lake Zumbro may have elevated contaminants. (olmstedcounty.gov)
Camping
CAMPGROUNDS
Mac’s Park Place, located at 57444 406th Ave, Mazeppa, MN, sits just downstream of the Lake Zumbro dam, combining a rustic campground with a lively bar and restaurant atmosphere. Open seasonally on a first‑come, first‑served basis, it offers around 30 mixed tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, a dump station, restrooms and showers. Campers can fish directly below the dam or stroll to nearby river access—though public fishing beside the campground often requires permission or a fee. The vibe is social and vibrant, with weekend live music, casual events, and hearty fare like burgers and cheese curds—a setting more akin to a community gathering spot than a secluded retreat.
Ponderosa Campground, located at 40240 County Road 90, Mazeppa, MN, about a half-mile from Mac’s, offers a quieter and more family‑friendly experience in a park‑like setting on the northern shore of Lake Zumbro. Open from mid-April through mid-October, it features nearly 100 sites with full RV hookups (electric, water, sewer), flush restrooms, showers, and free Wi‑Fi. The paved access roads and well-manicured grounds facilitate easy camping transitions, and pets are welcome on leashes. The adjacent boat ramp and shoreline provide ideal launching points for fishing (bass, walleye, crappie, sunnies), boating, canoeing and kayaking.
Both campgrounds offer convenient proximity to Rochester (about 15 miles), with easy highway access and local attractions. Mac’s caters to those seeking a lively, on-site social atmosphere with food, drink, and entertainment, while Ponderosa appeals to families and RV campers seeking quieter waterside relaxation with full services and recreational amenities. For either campground, it’s best to call ahead regarding site availability and any reservation policies—Mac’s tends to use a first‑come system and Ponderosa may offer seasonal, weekly, or daily stays depending on availability.
Member Meetings
Lake Zumbro Improvement Association (LZIA) holds two annual membership meetings. Come to hear important information firsthand from Lake Zumbro’s community partners and LZIA committees.
Spring Meeting – Thursday, May 21, 2026, at The Pondy. Social Hour – 6 pm. Meeting – 7 pm. The agenda will be emailed to members two weeks prior.
Fall Meeting – Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Mac’s Park Place. Social Hour – 6 pm. Meeting – 7 pm. CLICK HERE for the agenda. CLICK HERE for the 2026 Spring meeting minutes.
_____________________________
Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup
Saturday, October 17 @ 10 am. Join a team of volunteers to clean up two miles of White Bridge Road. Meet at the intersection of White Bridge Road and 18th Ave NW. Hi-vis vests and trash bags provided.
______________________________
King’s Marina, located at 40 Shorewood Lane NE, Rochester, MN, sits on the Zumbro River just north of Rochester in Zumbro Falls. This full-service marina boasts about 65 slips and well-maintained docks, providing convenient access for both powerboats and paddlecraft. Visitors frequently praise the friendly, accommodating atmosphere and appreciate the relaxed midweek environment, making it a peaceful retreat for anglers and leisure boaters alike. (kingsmarinamn@gmail.com)
Boulder Dam Canoe & Kayak Rental, located at 20 East Center Street, Oronoco, MN, operates at Boulder Dam on the Middle Fork of the Zumbro River. They specialize in paddlecraft adventures, offering scenic 3‑mile and 9‑mile float trips from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with reservation-only trips outside that period . Trips include shuttle service and wind through wooded valleys with gentle rapids before opening into Lake Zumbro, offering wildlife viewing opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts (boulderdamcanoe.com).
Boater Responsibility and Wake Awareness
Under Minnesota law, any damage your wake causes is treated the same as a collision. Personal watercraft (jet skis) must stay at least 150 feet from shore. While boats don’t have a set distance requirement, staying 200 feet or more from shore and structures helps reduce wake damage—especially for boats that create large, artificial wakes.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Assign a lookout to watch for other boats, swimmers, or obstacles. When crossing wakes, go slow and stay alert for people being towed. Obey all posted signs, including no-wake zones and speed limits.
Avoid operating near shorelines, docks, and riverbanks. High speeds in shallow water can cause erosion and habitat damage. Boats should not operate in less than 2.5 feet of water. Travel slowly near shore and avoid backing into banks or beaches. Always check for local rules, closures, or permits, and ask permission before entering private land.
To reduce your impact, avoid running the same route repeatedly. Keep noise to a minimum, be courteous to others, and share the water respectfully.
Environmental Impact of Wakes
Large wakes can erode shorelines, stir up sediment, and destroy shoreline vegetation—damaging water quality and wildlife habitat. These effects are worse when water levels are high. Boaters should reduce speed and wake near shore to help protect the environment and preserve the lake for everyone.
RESTAURANTS
Mac’s Park Place, located at 57444 406th Ave, Mazeppa, MN, is a casual bar and grill situated just below the Lake Zumbro Dam. Known for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it serves up local favorites like burgers, wings, and rotating daily specials. The outdoor patio offers scenic views of the river, making it a great spot to unwind with a drink after a day on the water. Frequent live music, meat raffles, and community events make it a go-to gathering place for both locals and visitors looking for a laid-back social experience with great food and conversation.
Uncle John’s Bar & Grill, located at 12510 Oak Lodge Ln NE, Rochester, MN, is a well-loved neighborhood spot just minutes from Lake Zumbro. It’s known for hearty Midwestern comfort food, including broasted chicken, burgers, and classic fish fries. The friendly service and relaxed setting make it a favorite for both locals and travelers. With a full bar, salad bar, and generous portions, it’s the kind of place where guests feel at home—perfect for a casual dinner, group outing, or catching up with friends over a good meal.
Supporting small businesses like these is vital to the health and character of the Lake Zumbro community. Locally owned restaurants and bars not only provide unique food and atmosphere, but they also reinvest in the local economy, create jobs, and build connections among neighbors. Whether it’s grabbing a burger at Mac’s or sharing comfort food at Uncle John’s, every visit helps preserve the charm and vitality of the region. These establishments reflect the spirit of the area and thrive thanks to the continued support of residents and visitors who choose to spend locally.
Fishing on Lake Zumbro requires all anglers to carry a valid Minnesota fishing license, which covers the period from March 1 through the following February 28/29 and is necessary for both residents and non‑residents. Anglers must follow statewide inland fishing regulations, including observing size and bag limits, seasonal restrictions, and approved fishing methods. Spearing and other non-permitted methods are prohibited, and all posted private or agricultural tracts around the lake must not be entered without permission. (dnr.state.mn.us)
Lake Zumbro hosts a variety of gamefish species—such as bluegill, black crappie, channel catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and stocked walleye fingerlings—under general statewide regulations. There are no lake-specific slot limits or special possession rules, so standard statewide limits apply. Special catch-and-release zones apply downstream of the Zumbro Lake Dam for smallmouth bass, but the main lake body is not designated as catch-and-release.
Boaters and anglers must also observe designated no-wake zones—especially near the dam and boat launches at Lake Zumbro Park—and may use ADA-accessible piers for shore fishing. Winter anglers can ice fish under the same statewide regulations, though boaters and ice shacks must follow county rules and leave temporary structures overnight unless DNR-permitted. Anglers should check the Minnesota Department of Health’s fish consumption advisories, as some species in Lake Zumbro may have elevated contaminants. (olmstedcounty.gov)
CAMPGROUNDS
Mac’s Park Place, located at 57444 406th Ave, Mazeppa, MN, sits just downstream of the Lake Zumbro dam, combining a rustic campground with a lively bar and restaurant atmosphere. Open seasonally on a first‑come, first‑served basis, it offers around 30 mixed tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups, a dump station, restrooms and showers. Campers can fish directly below the dam or stroll to nearby river access—though public fishing beside the campground often requires permission or a fee. The vibe is social and vibrant, with weekend live music, casual events, and hearty fare like burgers and cheese curds—a setting more akin to a community gathering spot than a secluded retreat.
Ponderosa Campground, located at 40240 County Road 90, Mazeppa, MN, about a half-mile from Mac’s, offers a quieter and more family‑friendly experience in a park‑like setting on the northern shore of Lake Zumbro. Open from mid-April through mid-October, it features nearly 100 sites with full RV hookups (electric, water, sewer), flush restrooms, showers, and free Wi‑Fi. The paved access roads and well-manicured grounds facilitate easy camping transitions, and pets are welcome on leashes. The adjacent boat ramp and shoreline provide ideal launching points for fishing (bass, walleye, crappie, sunnies), boating, canoeing and kayaking.
Both campgrounds offer convenient proximity to Rochester (about 15 miles), with easy highway access and local attractions. Mac’s caters to those seeking a lively, on-site social atmosphere with food, drink, and entertainment, while Ponderosa appeals to families and RV campers seeking quieter waterside relaxation with full services and recreational amenities. For either campground, it’s best to call ahead regarding site availability and any reservation policies—Mac’s tends to use a first‑come system and Ponderosa may offer seasonal, weekly, or daily stays depending on availability.
Lake Zumbro's Story
Lake Zumbro was created in 1919 following the completion of the Lake Zumbro Hydro Project that dammed the south and middle forks of the Zumbro River north of Rochester, MN (Wabasha and Olmsted counties).
Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) currently owns and operates the dam as a hydropower facility. Lake Zumbro is approximately 650 acres and is a popular recreation area in southeastern Minnesota. Recreational opportunities include boating, water skiing, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, water-ski shows, fishing, tent and RV camping, and homes lining the lake. In addition, the lake has a wheelchair-accessible fishing dock, marina, restaurants, and public and private boat launches.
Lake Zumbro is unique as it is the only body of water in southeastern Minnesota that offers hydropower ability and recreation opportunities.
In 1976, Lake Zumbro Improvement Association (LZIA) was formed with a primary goal of enhancing Lake Zumbro as a residential, recreational, and sportsman area. Today, LZIA continues this mission and organizes events for lake residents.
Since the creation of Lake Zumbro, sediment deposition has resulted in severe accumulation of sediment in several areas of the lake. In 2006, Lake Zumbro Forever Inc. was formed as a 501c3 non-profit organization. They worked tirelessly to secure funding to complete a dredging project in 2019. Read more by clicking the Historical Overview button below.
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