Top 8 Things to Do in North Oaks, MN (for Families With Kids)

Private. Peaceful. Nature-first. North Oaks is about quality, not quantity.

This list reflects what residents actually do, not what looks good on a brochure.

1. Pleasant Lake

The emotional center of North Oaks

This lake sets the tone for the entire community.

Why people care

• Calm, clean water
• No chaos, no jet skis
• Big trees and quiet shorelines
• Walks here feel grounding, not rushed

This is where North Oaks slows your nervous system down.

2. Shoreview Community Center

The “we actually use this” amenity

Technically Shoreview. Practically essential.

Why people care

• Indoor water park with slides + lazy river
• Full gym and fitness classes
• Space to sit, work, or talk
• Lifesaver in winter and rainy weekends

North Oaks residents come here because it’s functional, clean, and well-run.

3. North Oaks Golf Club

Elite, private, and intentionally exclusive

This is classic North Oaks energy.

Why people care

• Beautiful, well-maintained course
• Quiet, private club atmosphere
• Strong social scene for members

Caveat (important):

• Private membership only
• Initiation fees and annual dues are significant
• Not casual or drop-in friendly

If you’re in, you’re in. If you’re not, that’s kind of the point.

4. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park

Ramsey County, MN

This is one of the best nature assets in the metro.

Why people care

• Miles of trails through woods and wetlands
• Wildlife sightings are normal
• Quiet even on weekends
• Excellent for long walks, snowshoeing, and reflection

It feels wild without being remote.

5. Walking the Private Roads of North Oaks

This is a real pastime here.

Why people care

• No through traffic
• Beautiful homes and mature trees
• Feels safe and slow
• Great morning and evening ritual

It’s movement without performance.

6. East Oaks Park

650 East Oaks Rd N, North Oaks, MN 55127

Yes, North Oaks has pickleball. And yes, people care.

Why people care

• Pickleball courts for casual and competitive play
• Open green space nearby
• Easy parking
• Low-drama, local vibe

It’s social without being loud.

7. Tamarack Nature Center

5287 Otter Lake Rd, White Bear Township, MN 55110

Just outside North Oaks, but very much part of the lifestyle.

Why people care

• Boardwalk trails through wetlands
• Educational programs that don’t feel cheesy
• Great with kids
• Clean, peaceful, well maintained

8. Kayaking or Canoeing on the Lakes

Private, quiet, intentional

This is one of those things people don’t brag about. They just do it.

Why people care

• Calm water. No engine noise. No chaos
• Early mornings feel untouched
• Easy to go solo or with kids
• Fits the slower North Oaks rhythm

This is lake time without the performance. Just movement, water, and space.

Why North Oaks Feels Different (and Why That Matters)

North Oaks isn’t about checking boxes.
It’s about how things feel.

Quiet streets. Thoughtful design. Nature everywhere.
People choose this place because they value privacy, clarity, and care.

That mindset shows up in how homes are maintained too.

We live in North Oaks and Roof Here too

North Oaks isn’t just a service area for us.
It’s home.

Tim Brown and Bea Bonte, the owners of Owl Roofing, live here. We’re raising our family here. We walk these roads. We see the same neighbors. Our kids play nearby. This community is part of our daily life.

That changes how you show up.

When we work on a roof in North Oaks, it’s not a transaction. It’s stewardship. Reputation matters here. Trust travels fast. And cutting corners doesn’t fit the culture.

So we lead with:

• Clear, proactive communication
• Straight answers in plain language
• Respect for your property and your time
• A calm, organized process from start to finish

No pressure. No noise. No disappearing act.

If you live in North Oaks and want a roofing company that understands the standards here because we live by them too, Owl Roofing is ready when you need us.