Camping spots near Barry, Minnesota center on several lakefront options along Big Stone Lake, which straddles the Minnesota-South Dakota border. The region features primarily flat terrain with lake elevations around 970 feet, creating accessible shorelines for anglers and water enthusiasts. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs averaging in the 80s. Campground occupancy peaks during walleye fishing season in May and June.
What to do
Fishing access points: Hartford Beach State Park Campground offers multiple shore fishing locations with no license required from certain areas. A camper noted, "In the evening we saw tons of fish and an otter" near site 20, where a small trail leads to the lake.
Swimming beaches: Big Stone Lake State Park Campground provides a designated swimming beach with gradual entry points. "The hiking trails were very enjoyable and the swimming beach looked very nice," mentions a visitor who biked into the park.
Golfing options: Toqua County Park sits adjacent to a golf course, providing an additional recreation option. A camper shares, "Situated right between a lake and a golf course. Very clean camp sites."
Wildlife observation: The region hosts significant bird populations, particularly along shorelines. "Fun to watch all of the birds and pelicans!" notes a visitor to Big Stone Lake State Park, where waterfront sites provide optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Waterfront site access: At Hartford Beach State Park Campground, some sites feature direct water access. "Some, however, were right on the lake or had paths that lead to a picnic table & fire ring closer to the water," shares one visitor about the site layout.
Campground cleanliness: Traverse Co Park maintains clean facilities despite limited amenities. "The attraction is the lake and there is a small beach and boat access," mentions a visitor, noting the park's focus on water recreation rather than campsite features.
Sunset views: Big Stone Lake State Park offers westward views across the lake. A frequent visitor comments, "Beautiful sunsets, lots of wildlife and nice trails."
Site spacing variations: City Park in Browns Valley provides full hookup sites with adequate spacing. "Functional park with hookups and shade. Well done," notes one RVer about the modest but practical layout.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most lakeside campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends, particularly those with electrical hookups. At Hartford Beach State Park, "Mid week stay so nearly empty," indicates a camper, suggesting Sunday-Thursday visits for better site availability.
Facility maintenance variations: Maintenance standards vary significantly between parks. A Hartford Beach visitor commented, "Very friendly staff, very well kept. The showers & other facilities we're cleaned every morning. Maybe more. It is clean."
Seasonal insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in riverside locations. "The campground is near a river so beware of the mosquitoes," warns a visitor at Camping 109 RV Park, suggesting campers bring appropriate repellents.
Wind exposure factors: Big Stone Lake campsites can experience significant winds due to the open lake terrain. A regular visitor notes, "Flies can be an issue and the wind has an open shot from the south," highlighting the need for proper tent staking and awning security.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity: At Big Stone Lake State Park, beach access requires planning. "Short walk to some green space with a large sandbox, the boat launch, and swim beach," notes one family, suggesting sites closer to these amenities for those with young children.
Playground access: Hartford Beach State Park features playground equipment for children. "Nice playground too," mentions a visitor who found the facility suitable for family recreation despite the walk from some campsites.
Site selection strategy: For families needing more space, Hartford Beach offers varied options. "The upper sites are HUGE and very near nice!" recommends a camper who preferred the more spacious sites away from the lake for family camping.
Restaurant option: Lakewood Supper Club combines camping with on-site dining. "A former resort, now home to just 12 full hook up RV sites, a couple of cabins, and an amazing supper club that opens at 5:00 daily," explains a visitor, offering an alternative to campfire cooking for families.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup locations: At Hartford Beach, power connection points require planning. "The electric hook up is pretty far from the picnic table/fire ring area. Have a long cord," advises one RVer about site 20.
Site levelness considerations: The topography at some campgrounds creates challenges. "The sites near the lake are very wooded, a bit smaller and pretty uneven. The sites themselves are even but your canopy might be overhanging a slope," explains an RVer at Hartford Beach State Park.
Dump station availability: City Park in Browns Valley offers full hookups with sewer connections. "Site had dump station, bathrooms. Sites have sewer, water and electric," confirms a visitor who appreciated the complete services.
Year-round access options: While most campgrounds close seasonally, Camping 109 RV Park operates year-round. A long-term camper noted, "We stayed here during a deployment for work. We were one of many work campers staying at this RV park," highlighting its use for extended stays.
