Dassel, Minnesota camping areas spread across central Minnesota's Wright County, with elevations averaging 1,050 feet and annual rainfall of 31 inches. The camping season typically runs May through September, with July temperatures averaging 83°F. Seasonal conditions vary significantly, with late summer often bringing lower humidity and fewer insects than early summer months.
What to do
Backpacking adventures: Lake Maria State Park offers multiple backpacking sites ranging from short hikes to longer treks. "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. from Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Mushroom hunting: The wooded areas provide excellent foraging opportunities during summer months. "We were all entertained by the plethora of mushroom varieties that surrounded the camp," notes Steph H., who visited Lake Maria State Park during summer months.
Winter snowshoeing: Several parks maintain trails through winter. "I visit here often, great walking trails and wildlife," mentions Kelli D., a regular at Lake Maria State Park who enjoys year-round access to the park's extensive trail system.
Fishing opportunities: Games Lake County Park offers access to productive fishing waters. "Games Lake County Park is located on the east shore of Games Lake. Basically it is part of the 'Norway chain of lakes,' which total 2,800 acres, and provides an excellent fish population," reports a visitor to Games Lake County Park.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many sites offer privacy despite proximity to the Twin Cities. "If you're looking for a peaceful escape where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birdsong, and frogs singing at dusk — Site B6 at Lake Maria State Park is the one," shares Alison O., describing the backcountry experience.
Lake access: Multiple campgrounds feature direct lake access. "Most of the sites here are lakefront. They have you park your vehicle behind a row of bushes to help keep the view clear for everybody," explains Tori K. about Lake Ripley County Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal wildlife sightings enhance camping experiences. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way," notes Alison O. about her glamping experience in Dassel's surrounding parks.
Shaded campsites: Mature trees provide natural cooling during summer months. "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," reports Brian K. about his stay at Lake Maria.
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Insect activity varies by season and location. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," warns Steph H. about summer camping at Lake Maria, recommending fall visits instead.
Hike-in requirements: Some of the best sites require carrying gear. "I camped here back in 2020 of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart. Buddy and I parked at the southeast parking lot so the hike was about a mile and also hilly," shares cheeming Y. about Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
Water access varies: Lake access points differ between campgrounds. "Gotta cross a county road to get to lake," notes Sade C. about Cokato Lake RV Resort, highlighting that not all campgrounds have direct waterfront access.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly during peak season. "This tent pad is level, and there's a solid fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets and water access aren't too far, especially by backcountry standards," mentions Alison O. about Lake Maria's Site B6.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Campground is dog friendly and dogs must be leashed. There is also a fish cleaning shed," explains Tori K., listing family-friendly amenities at Lake Ripley.
Swimming beaches: Dedicated swimming areas provide safer water access. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous!" shares Lydia N. about her experience at Lake Maria State Park.
Family-specific sites: Some campgrounds have areas better suited for children. "We went with a group of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax. The sites are fairly large, but very open," recommends Jennifer H. about Baker Park Reserve.
Off-peak advantages: Weekday camping often means quieter conditions. "For being so close to the twin cities, this park boasts some really great sites," writes a visitor to Lake Auburn, noting the convenience for families seeking upscale glamping in Dassel, Minnesota region without long drives.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary in privacy and setup. "Shaded lot, much quieter than other sites I've been too. Many lots seem to be seasonal owners, but all were very well kept," notes a camper at St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park, about 30 miles from Dassel.
Tree navigation challenges: Some older campgrounds have tight spaces. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," warns Nettie W. about A J Acres Campground.
Amenities for extended stays: Campgrounds offer varying levels of conveniences. "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," explains S L. about St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park.
