Lake Carlos State Park and surrounding areas offer cabins, yurts, and glamping options in Minnesota's lake country at elevations around 1,300 feet. The region features a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, making cabin camping accessible year-round. Several campgrounds maintain heated accommodations for winter visitors when temperatures often drop below freezing.
What to do
Winter recreation activities: Lake Carlos State Park offers winter camping with electric sites and unique seasonal activities. "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," reports Tori K. about Lake Carlos State Park Campground.
Mountain biking and hiking trails: The parks near Carlos feature extensive trail systems for summer and winter use. "The trails were icy, but still enjoyable. At dark we headed to the candlelight event. We hiked 1.2 miles and then snowshoed 2.4 miles. There are ponds and bogs that they create snowshoe trails on, so there are even more trails to explore in the winter," writes Joanna B.
Kayaking and paddling: Non-motorized water activities are popular at Glendalough State Park Campground. "Only Tents Allowed--this is the most serene place! They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in," notes Emily R. The clear, calm water creates ideal conditions for paddling.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded camping options. "Nice large campground. There is a lower portion and upper portion with the lower campground being lakefront. There are primitive and electric sites available," mentions Tori K. The campground offers varying levels of privacy depending on which section you choose.
Lakefront access: Direct water access is a major draw for Tipsinah Mounds City Park. "Most lots are lake front. Camper spots are easy to get into and spacious. Two primitive areas, one by the beach and the other is tucked back in the trees (super secluded)," shares Ross B. The lake views and swimming access create popular summer camping options.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Carlos, Minnesota, several parks provide these structures. "My friend & I stayed in their Osprey yurt, and it was perfect for our first camping trip together. I recommend yurts if you're not 100% comfortable with/enjoy staying in a tent," says Isabelle P. Yurts provide a comfortable middle ground between tent camping and cabins.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most yurt and cabin accommodations require advance booking. "We booked our stay at the Lower Campground on a whim as it was one of the only campsites available in MN on a two week notice during Covid," notes Amanda M. about Glacial Lakes State Park Campground. Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Bug preparation: Insects can be intense during summer months. "Beautiful park with rolling prairies. 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," warns Mike O. Pack appropriate repellents and protective clothing.
Bathroom and shower access: Facilities vary significantly between parks and campground sections. "Not all sites have hammock trees. Bathrooms were not open for use when we came. Also, the water fill and dump stations are on the opposite side of most campers which was the only downside," reports Amanda M. Research specific amenities before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Crow Wing Lake Campground, "Everything was clean and a great family rv campground. Fully stocked store, pool, games, outdoor activities, etc. Only drawback was the lake was too mucky and weedy to swim in but has to be a great fishing lake," writes Laura B.
Swimming beaches: Clear lake swimming areas are available at multiple parks. "Good lake, had a great swimming beach. Our campsite wasn't private but there are some that are surrounded by trees and private. Would love to come back to this state park," shares Stephanie H.
Fishing opportunities: Kids enjoy fishing from docks and piers. "Lots of sites with and without electricity. Sites are spacious with close access to the lake from any of the lower campground sites. Large beach area for swimming and pylons to tie up boats," notes Jay H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV campers should research specific site characteristics. "The sites in the main loop have little privacy. That, coupled with the hiking trails, made this a not so high recommendation," explains Art S. about Maplewood State Park Campground. Look for sites with natural barriers or greater spacing.
Electric hookup options: Most parks offer varied electric service levels. "The sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly. The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping," observes Leslie R.
Winter accessibility: Some RV sites remain open year-round with limited services. "We are camping/glamping in a 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," shares Michele.
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