Lake Maria State Park Campground offers backcountry hike-in tent sites and camper cabins located 1/4 to 1 mile from parking areas. The campground's terrain features gentle hills, wooded areas, and wetlands at approximately 1,100 feet elevation. Sites require a short trek with gear, with most backcountry sites positioned on small peninsulas providing water views.
What to do
Winter snowshoeing after dark: Lake Maria State Park provides unique nighttime snowshoeing opportunities during winter months. Visitors report, "We spent a bit of time outside and then played in the tent the rest of the night. Unfortunately the bugs were bad enough that the next morning we just packed up and headed back to the car," suggesting preparation for seasonal conditions.
Mushroom identification: The diverse forest ecosystem at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve supports numerous mushroom varieties. A camper noted, "We were all entertained by the plethora of mushroom varieties that surrounded the camp," making it an excellent location for amateur mycologists.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for endangered Blanding's turtles in wetland areas and migratory birds throughout the seasons. At Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground, one visitor shared, "This place had awesome trails and so many deer! It's like they were camping with us," highlighting the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry sites: The park's backpacking sites range from easy access to more remote locations. A camper described, "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites."
Private camping experiences: Lake Maria State Park Campground sites provide seclusion rarely found near metropolitan areas. One visitor mentioned, "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness."
Yurt camping options near Annandale, Minnesota: Though true yurts aren't available directly in Lake Maria, alternative structures like cabins offer similar experiences. At St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park, "RV resort and some lot rentals, Heated pool, lake with beach, boat launch area just block away" provides comfortable shelter options similar to yurt camping in the Annandale area.
What you should know
Bug preparation is essential: Summer months bring significant mosquito and black fly populations. One camper warned, "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon... First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos."
Bear-safe food storage: Backcountry sites include bear lockers for proper food storage. A visitor noted, "Site comes with a fire ring, picnic table, and bear locker," highlighting the importance of proper food storage in this wilderness setting.
Pack weight considerations: For Cokato Lake RV Resort Cooperative Association, a visitor advised, "Carrying firewood, food, water, gear, on a hilly trail through the woods can become real tough real fast for anyone that isn't physically active. I easily was carrying 100lbs and had to take a couple breaks on the way."
Tips for camping with families
Start with closer sites: For families with young children, choose backpacking sites nearest to parking areas. A visitor recommended, "The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
Consider cabin alternatives: For families new to backcountry camping, Lake Ripley County Park Campground offers easier access while maintaining natural surroundings. A camper shared, "Sites have large open areas in front of camps for kids to play. Great hosts as well."
Plan quick-setup strategies: When camping with children during bug season, develop efficient tent setup plans. One family explained, "We were running and also planning out how to set up camp the quickest. Little tent first, throw the kids in, big tent second and then everyone in there while dinner was being made."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Traditional RVs cannot access backcountry sites, so use established campgrounds nearby. A visitor noted, "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," highlighting challenges at some nearby facilities.
Consider electric needs: While primitive camping is the focus at Lake Maria, nearby Minneapolis Northwest KOA provides full hookups. A camper mentioned, "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot."
Seasonal closures and conditions: Most RV campgrounds in the region operate from April through October. Check ahead for specific dates and restrictions as one visitor noted, "Sites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground."
