Best Campgrounds near Carlos, MN

Carlos is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Carlos campgrounds just for you. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Carlos and user-submitted reviews.

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Best Camping Sites Near Carlos, Minnesota (107)

    1. Lake Carlos State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Carlos, MN
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 852-7200

    "The lower campground has electric sites and is situated along Lake Carlos but there is little privacy between sites (126 and 127)."

    "I am from a suburb of Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota and we wanted to go camping with my in-laws who have horses."

    2. Oak Park Kampground

    5 Reviews
    Garfield, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 834-2345

    $32 - $48 / night

    "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."

    "Additionally, there are horseshoe pits, paddle boats, and hiking/biking trails."

    4. Lucky Acres Campgrounds

    1 Review
    Garfield, MN
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 267-2881

    5. Lazy Days Campground

    1 Review
    Carlos, MN
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (218) 943-3000

    $40 - $45 / night

    6. Sinclair Lewis City Campground

    14 Reviews
    Melrose, MN
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 352-2203

    "My extended family has gatherings here a couple times a year as it is close to everybody and a great location! "

    "There is a boat launch right next to the campground. A fish cleaning house is provided at the campground. Bathrooms are also located within the campground."

    7. Lakes Area Motel and RV Park

    1 Review
    Alexandria, MN
    9 miles
    +1 (320) 763-5121

    "Crop dusters zoom off from nearby airport. Over air TV has 60+ channels including cable channels."

    8. Linwood Resort & Campgrounds

    1 Review
    Osakis, MN
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 859-2175

    "Amenities I remember when we had a seasonal spot here: cabins with beautiful lake view, boathouse lodge and game room, sunbathing dock on the water, large picnic grounds, sand-filled playground, paddleboard"

    9. Chippewa Park

    2 Reviews
    Evansville, MN
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 762-2966

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Near Brandon,Minnesota. Lots of Amenities. Nice swimming beaches. #2 of them."

    "Each site has a fire ring & picnic table and sites 7-12 have lake views which are beautiful. Sites are 20/30/50 amp and spacious but pretty open to other sites."

    10. Head Of The Lakes Resort

    1 Review
    Osakis, MN
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (320) 859-4252

    "Right on Lake osakis, which usually has good fishing."

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Recent Reviews near Carlos, MN

291 Reviews of 107 Carlos Campgrounds


  • Levi S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Maplewood State Park Campground

    Knoll loop

    Stayed at knoll loop. I enjoyed the privacy of these sites. Road in is a little rough. The showers are at the main campground with plenty of parking. I wouldn't walk that far for the showers. Great place to stay.

  • The Rolling Panda  ..
    Jul. 16, 2025

    Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Campground

    Small quiet park

    This park is very small, minimal vegetation between sites. It was buggy, but manageable. Clean facilities, easy to navigate. If you're looking for a quiet small park this is a good place to start.

  • Cassie W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2025

    Lucky Acres Campgrounds

    Great spot!

    Friendly caretakers, spots right on the beach and a clean shower house!

  • Mike O.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Glacial Lakes State Park Campground

    Beautiful, buggy

    Beautiful park with rolling prairies. 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. Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray- I was planning to hike 5 miles but had to stop after 2. Would be nice to have showers in the Oak Ridge campground as it’s a long walk to the Lower campground.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Andes RV Park

    Great camping spot!

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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…and in winter, cross-country skiing and tubing—there’s something for everyone! The laundry room, the firewood and the ice delivery service were a convenient touch, and easy as a quick phone call or text. The owners were exceptionally friendly and accommodating, making us feel right at home. Highly recommend this gem for a fun and relaxing RV camping experience!

    Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!

  • M
    Jul. 6, 2025

    Lake Carlos State Park Campground

    Absolutely Beautiful!

    We are camping/glamping in. 30’ fifth wheel. The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time. Feels like we are deep in the forest but civilization is close enough for WiFi! Get some firewood from the Ranger, the fire pits are great!!

  • C
    Jun. 18, 2025

    Smith Park Campground

    Great quiet campground

    It’s a great campground to stop at along your way. A few short blocks off Highway 10 and within walking distance to a bakery, pub and pizza restaurant and a grocery store. Bathrooms, sewer dump, and charcoal grills available. Also plenty of picnic table and a playground for the kids.

  • The Rolling Panda  ..
    Jun. 9, 2025

    Oak Ridge Campground — Sibley State Park

    First time at Sibley

    Went for a last minute solo moto camping trip. Campground is beautiful. Clean, and great trails. Mosquitos were minimal, but the wood ticks were out in force.

    Site was on a bit of a slope, and, in a pretty open area compared to the sites before it. The site I was on only 2 trees, which would be great for a hammock. Lots of traffic, driving, people biking, and walking by. It was pretty constant until around 9pm.

    If you're looking for a bit of privacy, I'd recommend any of the sites before 96. If you're looking for ease of access to multiple camping spots (for a family get together with extended family) sites after 94 would be great for that.

    Overall I enjoyed the campground. I will stay again, just not at the spot I was at.


Guide to Carlos

Camping near Carlos, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and biking: Trails around the area provide great opportunities for hiking and biking. One camper mentioned, “The trails in the park have nice rolling hills and offer a unique type of beauty,” highlighting the scenic views you can enjoy while exploring.
  • Fishing and swimming: Many campgrounds are located near lakes, making them perfect for fishing and swimming. A visitor at Tipsinah Mounds City Park said, “There is a sandy beach to swim at,” which is great for families looking to cool off.
  • Canoeing and kayaking: Rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lakes. One reviewer noted, “The lakes are ranked among the most pristine in the state,” making it a fantastic spot for water activities.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Sinclair Lewis City Campground stated, “Bathrooms were beyond clean and modern,” which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A camper at Camp S'more mentioned, “The owners are very friendly and attentive,” making for a pleasant camping experience.
  • Quiet surroundings: Campers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. One visitor at Birch Lake said, “Nice quiet little campground,” which is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

  • Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer for Lake Carlos State Park Campground advised, “Need to reserve online,” to ensure you get a spot.
  • Limited services in off-season: If you visit during the off-season, be aware that some facilities may be closed. A camper at Sinclair Lewis City Campground noted, “The office was closed for the season with the water & electric turned off,” which can affect your stay.
  • Proximity to town: Many campgrounds are close to local amenities. A visitor at Sauk River City Park mentioned, “Walking distance to stores,” making it easy to grab supplies.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A family at Tipsinah Mounds City Park enjoyed, “There is a playground area,” which kept the kids entertained.
  • Easy access to water: Choose campgrounds with lakefront sites for swimming and fishing. A camper at Glendalough State Park Campground said, “Great swimming areas and picnic tables,” making it a perfect spot for family fun.
  • Quiet evenings: Look for campgrounds that promote a peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, “Quiet. peaceful evening,” which is ideal for winding down after a day of activities.

Tips from RVers:

  • Big rig-friendly sites: Many campgrounds offer sites suitable for larger RVs. A camper at Lake Carlos State Park Campground noted, “Big rig friendly,” which is essential for those traveling in larger vehicles.
  • Electric hookups: Ensure your campground has electric hookups if you need them. A reviewer at Sauk River City Park mentioned, “Power at each site,” which is a must for many RVers.
  • Dump stations: Check if the campground has a sanitary dump station. A camper at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground mentioned, “Not sure if there is a dump station for RVs,” so it’s good to confirm before you go.

Camping near Carlos, Minnesota, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available at Lake Carlos State Park?

Lake Carlos State Park Campground offers multiple camping options. The lower campground features electric sites situated along Lake Carlos with open spaces between sites ideal for families. For those seeking alternatives to tent camping, the park has camper cabins like the 'Frog Pond' cabin that sleeps multiple people. Additionally, there is equestrian camping available, making this park a great option for horse owners. The park is approximately 2.5 hours from the Twin Cities, making it accessible for weekend getaways.

What do visitors say about their experiences at Lake Carlos State Park?

Visitors to Lake Carlos State Park Campground praise the excellent hiking trails and clean campground facilities. Many enjoy the lakeside experience, though some mention the lake can be fairly developed and busy with motor boats. Families appreciate the open spaces between sites that allow children to play. For those seeking quieter alternatives in the region, Maplewood State Park Campground offers more secluded camping options with varied ecosystems, while Monson Lake State Park Campground provides a smaller, more peaceful setting with historical significance.

What amenities and facilities are provided for campers at Lake Carlos State Park?

Lake Carlos State Park provides several amenities for campers including electric hookups at the lower campground sites. The park features boat launch facilities, though these can get quite busy during peak times. For winter visitors, the park hosts special events like candlelight ski opportunities. For those seeking nearby alternatives with different amenities, Delagoon Park Campground offers about 20 campsites with 20/30 amp and water hookups, while Chippewa Park boasts two beautiful swimming beaches among its facilities.