Glendalough State Park offers non-motorized lake experiences within glacial terrain characterized by wooded uplands, rolling hills, and clear waters. Most of the campsites in the area maintain a tent-focused environment, allowing visitors to experience the natural landscape without motor noise on the water. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer highs typically reach the low 80s.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Rent watercraft directly from the parks for calm water exploration. In Glendalough State Park, "Small park but still a great place to get outdoors for the day. No motors allowed on the lakes, so canoeing, kayaking and fishing are great," notes Dan C. The non-motorized lakes create peaceful conditions for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Hiking trails: Access well-maintained paths through diverse ecosystems. Maplewood State Park offers "miles of hiking with the North Country Trail weaving throughout," according to Will H., who adds that "the fall colors were just starting but popped in the prairie." The park system includes trails through wetlands, forests and restored prairies with good signage.
Winter activities: Experience snow-covered landscapes with specialized winter recreation. Lake Carlos State Park offers winter camping with lantern-lit snowshoe trails. Tori K. mentions, "We stayed in the clam with an electric space heater going in addition to our 0 degree bags. It stayed pretty cozy!" Most parks maintain groomed cross-country ski trails during winter months.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Find privacy in wooded areas away from RVs. At Maplewood State Park, Leslie R. reports, "The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping." Most tent-focused sites are cart-in, requiring a short walk from parking areas but providing better separation from neighbors.
Clean facilities: Access well-maintained bathhouses and amenities. At Tipsinah Mounds City Park, campers appreciate the "shower facilities were clean, and they have a nice set up of handicap accessible showers and bathroom," according to Lisa. Most campgrounds provide running water and flush toilets during summer months.
Lake access: Enjoy water recreation directly from your campsite. Ross B. notes that at Tipsinah Mounds, "most lots are lake front. Camper spots are easy to get into and spacious." Many sites offer views of the water with easy access to swimming beaches and boat launches.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for glamping close to Battle Lake, Minnesota, especially on summer weekends. The yurts at Glendalough fill quickly during peak seasons from May through September.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for mosquitoes and ticks in warmer months. Art S. experienced this at Maplewood State Park: "We tried out hiking along one of the trails. The grass was long and we quickly found ticks crawling up our leg." Bug spray with DEET is essential from late May through September.
Weather variability: Pack for changing conditions even in summer. Ellen F. camped at Lake Carlos during October and reports: "I camped here during an MEA weekend in October and even though we woke up to snow covering our tent, it was a great experience!" Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Best family campgrounds: Choose sites with dedicated family amenities. Lake Carlos State Park comes recommended by Jay H.: "Wonderful place for families. Lots of sites with and without electricity. Sites are spacious with close access to the lake from any of the lower campground sites." The park includes a nature center with ranger-led programming.
Swimming options: Find beaches with gradual entry points for children. Tipsinah Mounds features "a nice sandy beach" according to Naomi H., making it ideal for younger swimmers. Most designated swimming areas are roped off and maintained throughout summer.
Activity planning: Schedule outdoor activities in the morning to avoid peak mosquito times. Lisa recommends Tipsinah Mounds City Park where "in the afternoon they have a hay ride (without the hay) around the grounds, kids loved it." Many parks offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Secure full-hookup sites early as they're limited in state parks. At Andes RV Park, Ryan L. found "outstanding trails that they use in the winter time for cross-country skiing with tons of outdoor activities. Brand new restroom and shower facilities with laundry." Most RV sites require reservations at least 3-6 months in advance.
Site selection: Request sites away from heavily wooded areas for easier parking. Helen V. notes Andes RV Park is a "nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise." Many parks have designated loops specifically designed for larger rigs with 30-amp service.
Year-round options: Consider glamping yurts near Battle Lake for RV amenities without towing. According to Canada0718! F., "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!" Several parks maintain winter camping options for those seeking luxury camping experiences year-round.
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