Lee Lake is a 33-acre shallow waterbody located in Clay County, Minnesota, within the Black Dog Watershed Management Organization (BDWMO) jurisdiction. The lake is classified as a shallow lake with a maximum depth of approximately 15 feet and is designated as a Minnesota DNR public water (MDNR #19-0029P). Access to Lee Lake is available through public shoreline areas managed by member cities within the watershed.

The lake is situated in a moderately developed suburban area of northwestern Dakota County, with portions falling within the municipalities of Burnsville, Lakeville, Eagan, and Apple Valley. The surrounding landscape reflects typical suburban land use patterns with residential development concentrated around much of the shoreline.

Water quality in Lee Lake has shown significant improvement in recent years. The lake was historically listed as impaired for excess nutrients but has since been delisted following successful water quality improvements implemented by the BDWMO and member cities. Average summer water quality metrics from 2012-2021 demonstrate stable conditions suitable for recreational use.

Paddlers should be aware that Lee Lake is a managed fishery, with the City of Lakeville actively stocking fish including efforts to control bullhead populations. The lake provides habitat for various fish species and waterfowl, making it suitable for wildlife observation while paddling.

The lake experiences minimal hazards for paddlers under normal conditions, with no significant current or major obstructions. Water levels are monitored by the MDNR and show typical seasonal variation. The shallow nature of the lake means aquatic vegetation may be present during growing seasons, particularly curly-leaf pondweed, which has been documented in the waterbody.

As part of the BDWMO watershed, Lee Lake benefits from ongoing monitoring and management efforts focused on maintaining water quality and ecological health. The suburban setting provides convenient access while still offering opportunities for quiet-water paddling and nature observation within the Twin Cities metropolitan area.