Clearwater, Minnesota camping options range from primitive forest sites to full-service campgrounds with modern facilities. The camping season typically runs May through October, when temperatures average 45-75°F during spring and fall, and 65-85°F in summer. Mosquitoes are most prevalent from June through August, with evening activity peaking after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking through diverse ecosystems: At Lake Maria State Park Campground, trails offer glimpses of wildlife and varied terrain. "This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," notes Lydia N. from Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Waterfront activities: Fishing and swimming are popular at Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park. The park offers "awesome trails and so many deer! It's like they were camping with us," according to Christopher C. Numerous lakefront sites provide easy water access throughout the region.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close during winter, trails remain accessible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. At Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground, "There were some really nice wide trails around the lake. I think those were basically designed for cross-country skiing in the winter," David T. reports.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of forest camping areas. "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites," explains Tori K.
Mature forest shade: The older growth trees provide natural cooling during hot summer months. Brian K. at Lake Maria State Park mentions, "Appreciated the camper cabin and the clean sites. Most if not all sites are in the woods from what I could tell so there is a lot of leaves. Good trails and a fun experience."
Sandy beaches: Swimming access is highly rated by families visiting the region. At Schroeder County Park, "The beach front is long and beautiful, lots of room to roam," reports Kelli D. The park's swimming area provides a shallow, gradual entry point making it suitable for younger children.
What you should know
Poison ivy prevalence: The plant grows abundantly throughout the region, particularly in Sand Dunes State Forest. "Sites are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth. Be aware that the undergrowth is at least 25% poison ivy. Sites are large so they are clear. If you're susceptible, not for you," warns Kari P. at Ann Lake.
Dispersed camping regulations: Free camping is available in designated areas south of Sand Dunes State Forest. "There's lots of little spots off the main gravel road. Nothing allowed further into the forest. One pull through area that I found. Couple vehicles pass a day," reports Heather W.
Varied site privacy: Campsite layouts differ significantly between parks. "Sites are not large and not wooded. It does not have a rustic feel, more like a vacation neighborhood... with friendly neighbors!" explains Danny K. about Schroeder County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for insects: Summer camping requires thorough preparation for mosquitoes and ticks. Steph H. from Lake Maria State Park shares, "Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts. Even though we'd sprayed everyone down the bugs must have felt safety in numbers because we were covered in welts in no time flat."
Check campground amenities: Facilities vary greatly between sites. At St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park, "This a nice family campground. It has a 9 hole mini golf, shuffleboard, salt water pool, and a lobby/gift shop. They also offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," notes S L.
Consider walk-in sites for older children: Some parks offer more secluded sites requiring short hikes. Emily H. recommends, "I highly recommend the walk-in-sites for the most private tent camping experience. The walk from the car isn't far, but the sites are off the road and in the pines."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility varies: Many forest campgrounds have limited clearance for larger rigs. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," reports Andy L. about camping at Ann Lake.
Utility hookup availability: Full-service sites fill quickly during peak season. At St. Cloud Campground & RV Park, "We were in a pull through at the north end of the campground and the site itself was nice and had decent spacing between sites, but I noticed some of the other sites were quite close," observes Tina.
Off-season camping benefits: Shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences with fewer neighbors. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees... We camped midweek, so there was no activity happening," notes Nettie W. about A J Acres Campground.
