Myre-Big Island State Park offers multiple camping options around Albert Lea, Minnesota, with elevation ranging from 1,200-1,250 feet. The park sits on Albert Lea Lake, spanning approximately 8 miles long and 3 miles wide at its widest point. The region experiences warm summers with highs averaging 83°F in July and cold winters with average January lows of 4°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Myre-Big Island State Park has abundant deer populations throughout its forested areas. "My best friend and I camp all the time with our pups! This park was lovely, it's on an island and we had a pretty amazing view!! We did a little hiking and enjoyed the semi empty campground only 10-15 people!! We saw a ton of wild life many many many deer!" reports a visitor at Myre-Big Island State Park.
Water recreation: The lake surrounding Big Island provides opportunities for paddling, with rentals available. "We dropped our kayak into the lake at the boat launch, which was a 2 minute drive to the other side of the island from the campsite. The lake was great, and calm," explains a camper at Big Island Campground.
Educational visits: The Spam Museum in nearby Austin offers an unexpected attraction. "Check out the Spam Museum in Austin, MN. We thought the museum would be cheesy, but it was a nice facility and a great experience," shares a visitor who stayed at Crystal Springs RV Resort.
What campers like
Modern facilities: The shower buildings at Myre-Big Island receive consistent praise for cleanliness and design. "Beautiful, clean, and recently updated bathrooms and showers! So much wildlife to see at this park. Seeing large groups of deer was a daily/nightly thing!" notes a camper from White Fox Campground.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the wooded separation between camping spots at Oakwoods Trails Campground. "Clean and well maintained campground about a quarter mile past owner's farm buildings. Signs for registration are easy to follow, stop at the Office (garage) to check in. Campground was very nice with mature trees."
Camping variety: The area offers options from primitive to more developed sites. "The little island group camp is a hidden gem- a whole island to yourself! The weekend was very cold - middle of May. But there was a lot of hiking to do. I'd recommend trying to snag this spot later in the summer when the lake is more inviting."
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: May and June can bring significant insect pressure, particularly around water. "We were here in May and the bugs were awful (I get it, they're part of being out in nature). At one point I just had to yell 'RUN' at my partner as I fled with our dog because the may flies were swarming so thickly that it was all you could hear and see," warns a camper at Myre-Big Island.
Wildlife awareness: Nocturnal visitors require food storage vigilance. "One thing to be aware of, is there are a bunch of raccoons who have figured out this is the place to go for food so be sure to pack up all food before going to sleep at night," advises a camper from Big Island Campground.
Varied pricing: State park fees include both camping and entrance costs. "Paid $45 online than had to pay $7 at gate. Some trails, saw bear poop, restrooms were confusing (7 choices 😳)," mentions one visitor describing their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Small-town activities: The Northwood area offers additional recreation beyond camping. "The downtown part of Northwood is about a 15 minute walk. There you'll find a handful of restaurants and a very nice, very small, coffee shop. There is a grocery store in town, as well as a hardware store and a pharmacy," explains a visitor to Worth County Fairgrounds.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Albert Lea: Multiple camping areas accommodate pets with varying amenities. "Nice place to stay! Not far from interstate. Clean bathrooms and showers!" notes a camper at Crystal Springs RV Resort, one of several pet-friendly options in the area.
Campground amenities: Some locations offer recreational facilities beyond hiking. "There is a small but well maintained playground and horseshoes. Note: it is cash or check only so make sure you have money to pay (we stopped at a nearby gas station to use an ATM)," mentions a visitor to Oakwoods Trails Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment for proper setup. "Restrooms were very clean and had fabulous showers! Sites didn't seems to be very level, but we eventually got our rig leveled. Staff was very nIce!" shares an RVer from Big Island Campground.
Electric options: Most Albert Lea area campgrounds offer electrical hookups, but amperage varies. "The sites are pretty well maintained, but close to neighbors. The facilities are brand new, and very clean. Had a toilet, shower, and dish washing area," explains a reviewer describing Big Island Campground's amenities.
Easy access locations: For those traveling along I-35, convenient options exist. "As the campground is right off the interstate, it was easy to get to. Our check-in package was ready when we arrived at the little self-registration building at the entrance," notes a visitor to Crystal Springs RV Resort.
