Split Rock Reservoir
About Split Rock Reservoir
Split Rock Reservoir is a 96-acre reservoir near Pipestone in Pipestone County, Minnesota. It reaches 16 feet at its deepest point, and has roughly 3.5 miles of shoreline. DNR surveys put average water clarity at about 2 feet, so expect stained or algae-tinted water in summer.
Minnesota DNR fisheries surveys list 12 fish species here, including northern pike, black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, and channel catfish. The DNR has stocking records for the lake, so check the stocking report for the most recent species and year classes. The most recent fisheries survey on file dates to 2025.
There is one public boat launch (concrete surface) managed by the Minnesota DNR. OpenStreetMap shows Swim Beach on or beside the lake. Split Rock Creek State Park Campground and Group Camp are mapped close to the shoreline for overnight stays.
Plan Your Visit to Split Rock Reservoir
- 96 acres, up to 16 feet deep, near Pipestone
- 1 public boat launch (concrete) — managed by the Minnesota DNR
- Game fish on the DNR survey: northern pike, black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, and channel catfish
- Average water clarity around 2 feet — expect green or stained water by midsummer
- Swim beach on or beside the lake (Swim Beach)
- Camping close to the water at Split Rock Creek State Park Campground and Group Camp
Access & Fees
- Public access
- 1 public boat launch (concrete)
- Launch fee
- Permit or fee required
- Managed by
- Minnesota DNR
Conditions
- Surface area
- 96 acres
- Max depth
- 16 ft
- Shoreline
- 3.5 mi
- Water clarity
- 2 ft
- Shallows (under 15 ft)
- 79 acres
Rules & Regulations
- A Minnesota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older
- Drain plugs must be out and all water drained before leaving any access; remove aquatic plants from boats and trailers
- Children under 10 must wear a life jacket on a boat that is underway
- Recorded accesses require a permit or fee
Facilities
- 1 public boat launch (concrete)
- Swim beach: Swim Beach
- Camping: Split Rock Creek State Park Campground, Group Camp, and Proposed Campground Expansion
- Picnic area
Best For
- Swimming and beach days
- Lakeside camping
- Low-clarity lakes are prone to summer algae blooms; keep dogs out of green, scummy water
- Ice is never completely safe — check thickness yourself before walking or driving on any lake
Angler's Report
Minnesota DNR LakeFinder- Species on survey
- 12
- Game fish
- 6
- Stocked
- Yes
- Last DNR survey
- 2025
- Special regulations
- No
- Fishing pier
- No
- Ice fishing
- Yes
- Boat launch
- Yes
Fishing data: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Regulations change — confirm with the current DNR fishing regulations.
Camping & Reservations
Split Rock Creek State Park Campground, Group Camp, and Proposed Campground Expansion are mapped on or near Split Rock Reservoir. Minnesota state park sites are booked through the DNR reservation system, national forest campgrounds through Recreation.gov, and most state forest campgrounds are first-come, first-served.
Campground locations © OpenStreetMap contributors. Confirm details with the operator.
Activities
Amenities
Fish Species
Plan your trip to Split Rock Reservoir
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Split Rock Reservoir?
Split Rock Reservoir is in Pipestone County, Minnesota, near Pipestone. It covers 96 acres and reaches 16 feet deep.
How big and how deep is Split Rock Reservoir?
Split Rock Reservoir covers 96 acres with about 3.5 miles of shoreline. Its maximum depth is 16 feet.
What fish can you catch at Split Rock Reservoir?
Minnesota DNR surveys list Northern Pike, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, Yellow Perch, and Channel Catfish and other species. A Minnesota fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.
Is there a public boat launch on Split Rock Reservoir?
Yes. Split Rock Reservoir has 1 public boat launch (concrete), managed by the Minnesota DNR. DNR public water accesses are free to use.
Can you swim at Split Rock Reservoir?
Yes. A swim beach is mapped on or beside the lake (Swim Beach). Most Minnesota beaches have no lifeguard, so swim at your own risk and check for beach advisories.
Is Split Rock Reservoir stocked?
Yes. The Minnesota DNR has stocking records for Split Rock Reservoir; species and numbers vary by year, so see the stocking report on DNR LakeFinder.
Can you camp at Split Rock Reservoir?
Yes. Split Rock Creek State Park Campground, Group Camp, and Proposed Campground Expansion are mapped on or near the shore. Confirm whether sites are reservable or first-come, first-served before you go.