Celebrating 250 years of freedom — one magical night of fireworks.
Nestled in the heart of Pope County, Lake Amelia is one of central Minnesota's treasured glacial lakes — formed over ten thousand years ago and beloved by generations of families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Crystal-clear waters and wooded shorelines make it a perfect escape from city life, whether you're casting a line at dawn, kayaking through a summer afternoon, or watching the stars emerge over still water.
Lake Amelia is renowned for walleye, largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish. Ice fishing draws enthusiasts all winter long.
Open, navigable waters make for perfect powerboating, pontoon cruises, and wakeboarding on warm summer days.
Sandy access points and calm summer water invite families to splash and swim throughout July and August.
Paddle along the wooded shoreline and discover quiet coves teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
When the lake freezes solid, a village of ice houses springs up. Some of Minnesota's finest winter fishing happens right here.
Bald eagles, loons, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer are year-round neighbors on the shores of Lake Amelia.
Every Fourth of July, Lake Amelia's Clearwater Bay community stages something truly special — four pontoons loaded with fireworks fan out across the water and launch in perfect synchronization. Shells burst from every direction at once, raining color down onto the glassy surface below. In 2026, we celebrate America's 250th birthday the only way we know how: loud, bright, and together on the lake.
Lake Amelia is a Minnesota angler's dream. The healthy, balanced fishery supports excellent populations across multiple species — whether you're a walleye purist, a bass tournament angler, or a kid dropping a bobber off the dock for the very first time.