Bear Head Lake State Park Wins ‘Best Restroom’

CINCINNATI -- Cintas Corporation has named Bear Head Lake State Park in Minnesota as America’s Best Restroom contest winner for 2025.

As this year’s winner, Bear Head Lake State Park’s restrooms earned a prize package that includes a Cintas UltraClean restroom cleaning service, $2,500 in Cintas products and services for restroom cleaning or facility management and an honored place in America’s Best Restroom Hall of Fame.

The restroom and shower building at the state park provides more than just function; it offers thoughtful design in a stunning setting. With a fully accessible layout that meets all ADA guidelines, this facility ensures comfort for all visitors.

The exterior dishwashing sinks are a camper-friendly touch, providing a convenient space to clean up without trekking back to a waterless site.

“We are thrilled to receive the 2025 Best Restroom Award,” said Jody Popesh, Park Supervisor at Bear Head Lake State Park. “People don’t always think about restrooms when they’re planning a state park trip, but restrooms play an important role in providing comfort, accessibility and a positive overall experience. This award affirms the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ commitment to creating welcoming spaces for all visitors, down to the smallest details.”

In its 24th year, the America’s Best Restroom contest celebrates businesses that develop and maintain innovative, hygienic restroom facilities. The state park was among nine finalists selected based on cleanliness, visual appearance, innovation, functionality and unique design elements.

The public had the opportunity to vote for the following finalists (in alphabetical order) between August 8 and August 15 at bestrestroom.com:

• City of Fruita (Fruita, Colorado)
• Footprints (Lawrence, Kansas)
• Little America Hotel (Salt Lake City, Utah)
• Moderne Bar (Orlando, Florida)
• The Rooftop at Pier 17 (New York, New York)
• Rosebrook Lodge (Bretton Woods, New Hampshire)
• Tatsu (Dallas, Texas)
• Tecolote Shores (San Diego, California)

John Rudy, Senior Director of Marketing at Cintas, said, “By prioritizing thoughtful design and attention to detail, Bear Head Lake State Park transformed a basic necessity into a welcoming, accessible and memorable part of the visitor journey. In addition to enhancing the entire park experience, the restrooms raise expectations for public spaces everywhere.”

Last year, Maverik – Adventure’s First Stop took home the top prize for its commitment to cleanliness and comfort, with sparkling fixtures, spacious stalls and fresh amenities that make each pit stop along your adventure a pleasant experience.

With offerings that include uniforms, mats, mops, towels, restroom supplies, workplace water services, first aid and safety products, eye-wash stations, safety training, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and alarm service, Cintas helps customers get Ready for the Workday. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Cintas is a publicly held Fortune 500 company.

For more, go to www.cintas.com.