Cold Spring, MN

Cold Spring sits right along the southwest edge of the Sauk River Chain of Lakes, giving locals easy access to 14 interconnected lakes for boating, kayaking, and weekend fishing. With a population of around 4,000, it offers a relaxed, friendly small-town feel surrounded by central Minnesota water and woods. The town takes its name from the natural springs in the area, and you will still find plenty of unique heritage here, including the historic Grasshopper Chapel, built by 1870s settlers seeking relief from a swarm of locusts.

ATTRBobak Ha'Eri / CC BY 3.0

For families, the community is anchored by the ROCORI school district, which brings together students from Cold Spring, Rockville, and Richmond. Daily life often revolves around the outdoors, from walking the paved Rocori Trail along the Sauk River to spending sunny afternoons near the local river dam and parks. Minnesota Highway 23 runs straight through town, offering an easy 20-minute drive into St. Cloud and quick connections to Interstate 94. It makes a comfortable, scenic home base for anyone looking for lake-country charm within reach of everyday conveniences.