Glacial Lakes State Park and nearby camping areas surrounding Chokio, Minnesota sit within rolling prairie landscapes at approximately 1,100 feet elevation. The region features kettle lakes formed by retreating glaciers that left behind clear waters amid prairie grasses. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with high humidity, while winters drop to single digits with significant snowfall making seasonal preparation essential.
What to do
Disc golf course: Located at Andes RV Park, the course offers recreational opportunities beyond water activities. "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!" notes Canada0718! F.
Wildlife observation: The prairie ecosystem at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground provides opportunities to spot native species. "We saw beavers swimming; They were not fearful of campers," reports Joe W., who recommends tick prevention for pets due to the tall grasses.
Winter recreation: Cross-country ski trails become available when snow blankets the region. According to Ryan L., Andes RV Park has "outstanding trails that they use in the winter time for cross-country skiing with tons of outdoor activities."
What campers like
Lakefront views: Tipsinah Mounds City Park offers prime waterfront camping spots on Pomme de Terre Lake. "The lake views are spectacular," shares Sheila K., while Ross B. adds, "most lots are lake front. camper spots are easy to get into and spacious."
Clear water quality: Water clarity enhances swimming and paddling experiences. Tony S. notes about Glacial Lakes State Park, "The water in the lake is nice and clear. The swimming area isn't awesome, but I have seen much worse."
Bluff camping: Lac qui Parle County Park offers elevated camping with panoramic views. Timothy W. explains, "The lack of mature trees on the upper campground bluffs is a plus. A gentle breeze keeps the bugs down and allows for nice views."
What you should know
Bug intensity varies by location: Insect activity can be significant, particularly in wooded areas and tall grass. At Glacial Lakes State Park, Mike O. reports, "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."
Water levels fluctuate: Lake conditions change seasonally, affecting amenities. Lisa H. observed, "The lake was really high when we visited, which led to a useless campground fishing pier and a boat dock that you had to swim to to use. There was no beach, but there may have been if the water level was normal."
Limited availability at specialty sites: Seasonal rentals dominate some locations. At Lakewood Supper Club, Bret S. explains, "There are normally no open sites, we are told, as they are all rented for the season. We got lucky because there was a site available."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hankinson City Park provides basic camping near playground facilities. "In town camping by the park," notes Russell T., making it convenient for families with children needing play equipment.
Hayride activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities for children. Lisa from Tipsinah Mounds City Park shares, "In the afternoon they have a hay ride (without the hay) around the grounds, kids loved it."
Bathroom proximity: Consider campground layout when traveling with children. Samuel V. from Glacial Lakes State Park notes, "Our cabin was a long ways from the shower facility which I knew going into the weekend. Parking near showers was close to non existent."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Multiple glamping options near Chokio provide complete services. Helen V. reports about Andes RV Park: "Nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise."
Dump station access: RVers should note facilities available for waste disposal. Always C. observes at Hankinson City Park: "Dump station at the pay box but no water. Found a business that let us fill our tanks."
Site selection for privacy: Amanda M. advises at Glacial Lakes State Park: "The sites are close side-to-side, but trees line the outside sites and there is good back-to-back space between the inner sites. Preferred sites in Lower Campground would be 7 for non-electric for privacy and lake views, and 14e, 16e, and 18e for electric."
