"Eagle" is the official name, but most people call it “Big” Eagle Lake. There may be a couple of reasons for the "Big" that has been added to its name. First, it is the largest lake in Sherburne County, MN and is located less than 20 miles from another "Eagle Lake" (which most call "Little Eagle"). Secondly, the lake is approximately 4 miles north of the city of Big Lake, MN (which is the home of "Big" Lake).

  Two different townships share Big Eagle Lake. The northern 2/3 of the lake is in Orrock Township and the southern 1/3 is in Big Lake Township. The towns of Orrock and Big Lake are both about 3-4 miles to the north and south respectively. In addition, Big Eagle Lake is located just minutes away from the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and the Sand Dunes State Forest.