Alexandria, Minnesota sits at the edge of the central lakes region of Minnesota at an elevation of 1,400 feet. The area features over 300 lakes within a 25-mile radius, creating diverse options for pet friendly camping near Alexandria. Summer temperatures average between 58-83°F, with occasional thunderstorms that can affect camping conditions.
What to do
Boat access camping: Sinclair Lewis City Campground offers sites accessible by boat. "We had an incredible stay at Andes RV Park! The facilities are top-notch, with brand-new, spacious bathrooms and showers that were really nice and clean! The park offers a fantastic range of activities, including golf cart rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf, pickle ball, etc…" according to a camper from Andes RV Park.
Winter activities: For cold-weather camping with pets near Alexandria, some sites remain open year-round. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter. We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent," notes a visitor to Lake Carlos State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Many campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water activities. "The weekend we camped it was scorching hot. Most of the hiking trails in the park were through the prairie grass. The High Peak Trail did have some lovely views though!" reports a camper at Glacial Lakes State Park.
What campers like
Clear water: Many campers appreciate the water quality at lakes around Alexandria. "The water in the lake is nice and clear. The swimming area isn't awesome, but I have seen much worse," notes a camper at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground.
Town accessibility: Campers enjoy being close to amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "Lakefront sites are available. Picnic table and fire ring provided at each site. In town campground so it can be a little noisy at times. There is a boat launch right next to the campground," reports a visitor to Sinclair Lewis City Campground.
Seasonal events: Special programming enhances pet friendly camping options near Alexandria throughout the year. "We headed to Lake Carlos for their candlelight ski, this was our first visit to this state park. Tent camping wasn't available and we were able to reserve a camper cabin - Frog Pond. It was a nice change and a warmer option, the cabin is gorgeous!" shares a winter camper.
What you should know
Bug preparation: Insects can be intense during certain seasons. "Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!" warns a visitor at Andes RV Park.
Site selection considerations: Different loops offer varying levels of privacy. "Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground. Site 28 and 30 don't have tree cover, but have beautiful views of the rolling hills. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray," reports a camper at Glacial Lakes State Park.
Water levels: Seasonal changes affect water features. "The lake was really high when we visited, which led to a useless campground fishing pier and a boat dock that you had to swim to to use. There was no beach, but there may have been if the water level was normal," notes a visitor to Glacial Lakes State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kids activities: Several campgrounds offer family-oriented amenities. "We found this campground on a Google search looking for something near my Grandma's house and have now visited twice! The staff is great and very welcoming. Our kids (3, 5, 7) enjoy the pool, the activities the staff plans, playground, paddle boats, and more," shares a family at Oak Park Kampground.
Swimming options: Safe water access points exist for families with children. "Full hook up. Kids loved pool. The staff are awesome. The playground is cool and they have paddle boats. Super clean bathrooms and they have a store on site full of odd things you may have forgotten," reports a visitor to Oak Park Kampground.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance camping experiences for families. "Nature center is really good and all of the staff are great and friendly. Definitely worth checking out," reports a camper at Lake Carlos State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers note the terrain quality at various campgrounds. "All lots, (lots of lots), were level and had water & electric. Super easy check in... Would definitely stay again," explains a visitor to Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground.
Seasonal RV options: Several parks offer extended stay possibilities. "Made last minute reservation through website?? Pick your own site. No sign of bathhouse. Good hookups though. Crop dusters zoom off from nearby airport. Over air TV has 60+ channels including cable channels," notes a visitor to Lakes Area Motel and RV Park.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have unique features that create noise. "It is an active gun range so if shooting bothers you, may not be your place," warns a camper at Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground, important for those seeking pet friendly camping near Alexandria with noise-sensitive animals.
