Camping options near Chokio, Minnesota range across the region's lake-dotted terrain with elevations averaging 1,100 feet above sea level. The area features predominantly prairie landscapes with scattered wetlands, creating unique camping conditions across all four seasons. Weather patterns include cold winters with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing and warm summers that average 80°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Paddleboarding on crystal-clear waters: Glacial Lakes State Park Campground provides access to exceptionally clear lake waters. As one camper noted, "Our favorite part of this trip was renting stand up paddle boards. The lake water was crystal clear and glass like calm."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Hartford Beach State Park offers chances to spot various animals. A visitor shared, "In the evening we saw tons of fish and an otter. The electric hook up is pretty far from the picnic table/fire ring area. Have a long cord."
Winter recreation options: Andes RV Park maintains year-round appeal with seasonal activities. A reviewer mentioned, "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!"
Recreational shooting facilities: Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground combines camping with target sports. "Stayed for a few nights during the State High School Trap Shoot. Crowds were expected and it was a busy area. Surprisingly quiet in the evening given how many people were there."
What campers like
Accessible fishing opportunities: Pomme De Terre Campground provides multiple fishing access points. A camper reported, "Pretty nice campground with water and electric. Bathhouse, walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views. Some sites are a little difficult to get into but not impossible."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Big Stone Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "Nice, clean campground. A few of the tent sites had lake views with even a few having short paths right to the waters edge. They have nice hiking trails."
Spacious RV sites: The area's rv parks near Chokio, Minnesota offer ample space between sites. At Andes RV Park, a visitor noted, "Nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise. Golf cart rentals, and trails from the park."
Modern amenities: Campgrounds provide updated facilities. About Andes RV Park, a reviewer stated, "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!"
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most camping facilities near Chokio have restricted seasons. Glacial Lakes State Park lists "All year" availability, but has limited winter services. Big Stone Lake State Park operates only "May 25 - Sep 7."
Bug preparation essential: Insect activity varies by season and location. At Glacial Lakes, one camper advised, "Due to the grass, there were many ticks, pets should be treated for ticks ahead of time." Another at Andes RV Park emphasized, "Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!"
Water level variations: Lake conditions change throughout the year. A camper at Glacial Lakes described challenges: "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."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location in the Chokio camping region. At Hartford Beach State Park, a visitor reported, "Cell signal: Good (Verizon)" while other parks further from towns may have limited coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Pomme De Terre Campground, facilities include "walking trails, fishing and beautiful lake views." The Homestead at Ottertail RV Park provides "Pool with spacious deck, Fish Cleaning Shack, Room to Roam, Playground."
Beach selection factors: When swimming with children, consider beach quality. A camper at Glacial Lakes observed, "The swimming area isn't awesome, but I have seen much worse," while Hartford Beach State Park received better reviews: "Beach was nice! It was a decent walk there, but at least had a trail to the beach. Nice playground too."
Camper cabins for comfort: Glacial Lakes State Park Campground offers alternative lodging for families. "We stayed in camper cabins that were really amazing. Fishing Pier and a small lake to canoe and kayak on. I'd definitely come back," one visitor shared. Another noted, "Had a great stay, everything was as expected with a camper cabin. Beautiful park with great trails and a beautiful lake!"
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability: RV parks in the Chokio area vary in hookup options. The Homestead at Ottertail RV Park and Resort provides complete services: "AMENITIES ALL SITES HAVE: 20/30/50 Amp Electrical Hook-ups, Water and sewer, Fire Pits."
Discount program benefits: Some RV campgrounds offer membership savings. Camping 109 RV Park provides significant discounts: "We will stay here again when in the area. Also you can get 50% off with passport america pass!"
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across campgrounds. Hartford Beach campers noted: "There are 2 separate camp areas with 2 completely different types of sites. 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."
Off-season availability: Year-round rv parks near Chokio are limited. Lakes Area Motel and RV Park remains open during winter months, with one visitor mentioning their "Good hookups" and that "Over air TV has 60+ channels including cable channels."
