Things To Do
Activities & Outdoor Recreation
at Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort
Pool & Hot Tub
Relax on the deck of our heated in-ground pool, with a gradual depth increase from 3’ to 6’, perfect for sunny summer days. Don’t forget your floaty! After a day of exploring trails, shops, or fishing, unwind in the spa to ease tired muscles.
Activities for All Ages
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Little ones: Swing set and sandbox.
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Friendly games: Shuffleboard, bocce ball, ping pong, and badminton.
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Nature fun: Paddleboat rides, scavenger hunts, and exploring our 100-acre property.
Hiking & Biking Trails
Take in nature on our wooded resort trails or venture to the Paul Bunyan Hiking & Biking Trail, just a mile away. This scenic paved trail is perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading.
Bird Watching
With woods, wetlands, and open areas, Niemeyer’s is a haven for bird watchers. Watch Bald Eagles, Swans, Barred Owls, Great Blue Herons, Loons, Bluebirds, Orioles, warblers, and more. Feeding stations, birdhouses, and nests throughout the resort offer a front-row view of nature’s miracles.
Fishing
The Mississippi River offers excellent fishing year-round:
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Early summer: Northern and walleye
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All season: Panfish
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Late summer: Smallmouth bass, Muskie, and largemouth bass
We’ve been here for over 35 years and can direct you to favorite fishing spots, or explore on your own. Guided trips are available:
Duck Hunting
Set up your blind and enjoy some time on the river—you might even catch a fish or two while you wait! Gather your hunting party and stay with us for a comfortable, convenient base during the season.
Boat Launch
Bring your own boat! Boat launching and docking are included with your stay. (Personal watercraft, jet skis, and ATVs are not allowed.)
Boating, Canoeing & Kayaking
Explore miles of bays and undeveloped shoreline along the slow-moving Mississippi River, just 5 miles north of the Paper Mill Dam. Enjoy lake-like bays, clear water, and scenic wildlife—beavers, bald eagles, whitetail deer, and even occasional black bears or wolves. Canoes and kayaks can be checked out by the hour; boats are available by the day or week. For guided trips:
Boat Rentals
Choose the boat that fits your group:
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Basic fishing boats: Bench seat with 20 HP 4 stroke tiller motor.
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Deluxe fishing boats: Pedestal seats, live well, electric start, 60 HP 4-stroke tiller motor
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Fishing pontoons: Accommodate up to 8 people, perfect for larger groups or those with small children or elderly members
Area Activities
There’s no shortage of fun near Niemeyer’s:
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Beaches and lakes for swimming
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Golf courses and miniature golf
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Amusement parks and Paul Bunyan attractions
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Go-carts and racing at Brainerd International Raceway and North Central Speedway
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Rainy-day options: Bowling, movies, indoor waterparks
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Shopping: Antiques, sports, clothing, art, home goods, and specialty stores
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Dining: A variety of local restaurants to suit every taste—just ask us for recommendations!