Big Marine Park Reserve, owned and operated by Washington County, is a key part of the Minnesota Metropolitan Council's Regional Park System. The park was chosen as a regional facility due to its exceptional natural features, including the scenic St. Croix Valley, vast ground moraine, and high-quality upland and wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife. These natural resources make the park a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

The park currently offers a range of recreational amenities, including an interconnected trail network, a boat launch, an outdoor play area, a swimming beach, and four key structures that enhance the visitor experience. The swim beach building serves as the central hub, providing essential amenities such as picnic shelters, an office area, concessions, changing rooms, restrooms, and break rooms for both staff and visitors. Other structures on-site include a contact station, a restroom building, and an additional picnic shelter, ensuring that the park can comfortably accommodate the needs of its many visitors.

A major focus of the site design was to minimize the environmental impact on the park's natural resources. The planning process incorporated strategies to protect the surrounding wildlife habitats and wetlands, with careful attention to preservation and restoration efforts. By designing the park with sustainability in mind, Washington County was able to maintain the ecological integrity of the area while offering a wide range of recreational activities for the public.

In recognition of the thoughtful design and environmental sensitivity of the project, Big Marine Park Reserve was awarded the Award of Excellence by the Minnesota Recreation & Park Association in 2008. This award highlights the park's success in balancing natural preservation with public enjoyment, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate the area's unique environmental features.