Cabins near Comfrey, Minnesota typically see temperatures ranging from 12°F in winter to 83°F in summer, with most facilities open from April through October. The area sits at approximately 1,080 feet above sea level, surrounded by prairie landscape and small lakes that create distinct seasonal camping conditions. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months, with temperature swings of 30+ degrees common in spring and fall.
What to do
Biking along paved trails: At Sportsman Park near Sleepy Eye, visitors can enjoy biking on the 5K paved trail circling the lake. "A 5k paves trail that goes around the lake connecting the campground to the park on the other side of the lake, bike rentals (using an app on your phone)," notes Allysa K., who also mentions the various playgrounds throughout the property.
Paddling on Lake Shetek: At Sunrise Campground, kayaking opportunities abound on the shallow lake. "The lake is only about 10 feet deep at its deepest point so lots of kayaking and canoeing. On the north end of the lake there is more boating and water sport activity so kayaking on that side can get a bit choppy," shares Nicole L. The campground offers kayak and canoe rentals seasonally.
Historical exploration: Fort Ridgely State Park features preserved historical sites from the U.S.-Dakota Conflict of 1862. "There is a fee to enter the museum. The historical fort site has lots of great information and signage around the excavations," explains Liz H. The park offers ranger-led educational programs during summer weekends covering the fort's significance.
Wildlife viewing: The prairie landscape provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Flandrau State Park, early risers might spot deer herds. "We had tons of peaceful animal visitors including herds of white tail deer walking through our camp ground! Owls and coyotes singing in the distance," describes Alison O. about her springtime experience.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: At Flandrau State Park, campers appreciate the walk-in sites for their privacy. "We stayed at site 91, which you have about a 500 ft walk to get to. The campsite was very secluded (you can hear noise from all of the other campsites though) and large," reports Jen H., highlighting how these sites provide more seclusion than the main camping areas.
Lakeside cabins: Rental cabins at Lake Shetek State Park offer stunning views. "Our party consisted of two adults, and three children under 12. The cabins are close to the lake. In early October the leaves are mostly fallen and you have an unobstructed view of the lake and surrounding hills," shares James A. about the cabin accommodations at Lake Shetek.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature fishing access. "Lake Shetek had a fish kill over the winter, so our boat only got one trip out on the lake," notes Lisa H., but typically the fishing at Lake Shetek is productive for walleye, northern pike, and panfish. Most fishing areas are accessible without boats as well.
Clean facilities: Flying Goose Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Showers and bathrooms were big and clean. Campground in general was immaculate," writes Gypsy G. Many cabin locations include modern bathroom facilities with hot showers, especially important for tent and cabin campers without private facilities.
What you should know
Booking windows: Most cabins require advance reservations, especially at state parks. Reservations open 120 days ahead at Minnesota state parks, with holiday weekends filling immediately. "The sites are clean and well maintained and the staff at the park were really nice," a camper noted about Fort Ridgely's accommodations.
Limited privacy: Some campgrounds feature more exposed sites. At Red Fox Campground, "Loop A is superior for tent camping in every which way, unless you happen to want electricity or want to rent the cabin which is in loop B," explains Krista T., noting that "the sites on the outside of the loop are much more private and have way more trees."
Seasonal limitations: Water systems typically shut down in mid-October. "We stayed in a camper cabin during the winter and it was lovely! The park was so quiet and trails were great for both hiking and snowshoeing," mentions Ellen F. about Red Fox Campground, highlighting the year-round accessibility of some cabins even when water systems are winterized.
Mixed amenities: Cabin facilities vary significantly. "The cabin consisted of bunk beds with double beds on bottom and twin bed on top. With our gear for four days we found the cabin had just enough room for our party," notes James A. about Lake Shetek's accommodations. Some cabins feature heating, while others remain unheated and better suited for warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Plum Creek Park Campground features multiple play areas. "This park features great sites, trails, a swimming beach, and playground equipment. The spots were very spacious and the park staff was very friendly," shares Zach E. The campground's playground is located near both the tent sites and cabin areas.
Water activities: Several parks offer swimming beaches for children. "Lovely park to camp at! There is a beach for swimming. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," mentions Tori K. about Flandrau State Park. Most swimming areas feature gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
Educational opportunities: The Laura Ingalls Wilder connection draws many families. "I camped at Lake Shetek State Park, MN many years with my two daughters. We were there for a week. Took in the park and swimming on the beach along with going to the Laura Ingels Wilder Pageant!" shares Shelly S. The annual pageant typically runs weekends in July.
Kid-friendly cabin options: Sands Country Cove provides family amenities. "Peaceful lakefront property with a playground, mini golf, and ice cream for kids (and parents). You drive through farm fields to get there and we were surprised when we arrived at how nice it was," notes Sarah N. Most family cabins include bunk bed configurations to maximize sleeping space.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at state parks: At Jackson KOA, RVers appreciate the level sites. "Our site was level, easy to get into, and had a nice tree providing some shade. Water pressure was good, no issues with electric," reports Gregory L., highlighting the practical considerations important for RVers.
Seasonal considerations: Many cabin campgrounds experience flooding in spring. "It's obvious that the park had some heavy flooding earlier in the year. A lot of the waterfront sites became sandy," observed Nicole L. about Fort Ridgely. Early and late season campers should check conditions before arrival.
Utility access: Cabins with RV hookups provide more comfort options. "At Ft. Ridgley horse camp. Very nice horse camp, with electric hookups, and water at every site," shares Cody T. Many campers using cabins still appreciate hookups for cooking appliances and device charging.
Dump station availability: "There is a nice clean RV DUMP station," notes Tom about Lake Shetek State Park, an important consideration for RVers staying at cabins with limited sewer facilities. Most Minnesota state parks with cabin accommodations maintain seasonal dump stations for visitor use.
