Maplewood State Park Campground spans 9,200 acres of diverse terrain in western Minnesota, featuring eight lakes within its boundaries. The park's trail system includes over 25 miles of hiking paths winding through maple forests that turn vivid shades of red and orange during fall. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, making seasonal preparation essential for campers staying in the park's various accommodations.
What to do
Hiking in all seasons: Buffalo River State Park Campground offers exceptional hiking opportunities with varied terrain. "Great facilities, a nice state park close to Fargo, but overall plain and skippable unless you want something close by. The river access requires a .5 mile walk and there really isn't much to do or anything unique to see," notes reviewer Delanie J. The park maintains several looping trails where you can put together hikes ranging from 15 minutes to two hours.
Winter activities: Lake Carlos State Park Campground transforms in winter with special seasonal events. "We headed to Lake Carlos for their candlelight ski, this was our first visit to this state park. Tent camping wasn't available and we were able to reserve a camper cabin - Frog Pond. At dark we headed to the candlelight event. It was very busy and a huge turnout. We hiked 1.2 miles and then snowshoed 2.4 miles," writes Joanna B. The park creates special snowshoe trails on ponds and bogs, offering expanded winter recreation options.
Horseback riding: Maplewood State Park welcomes equestrian visitors with dedicated horse trails. "This is absolutely my favorite campground in the area. The park is stunning on horseback in the fall time. Whether hiking or riding this park hasn't been a disappointment yet!" shares Melissa G. The equine camping area provides ample space for trailers while maintaining some privacy between sites.
What campers like
Lake views and access: Tipsinah Mounds City Park receives praise for its waterfront locations. "Beautiful location. most lots are lake front. camper spots are easy to get into and spacious. two primitive areas, one by the beach and the other is tucked back in the trees(super secluded)," notes Ross B. The park features nice docks with benches specifically designed for enjoying lake views and sunsets.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing at many glamping options close to Dent, Minnesota. "The campground was pretty open, but it was a fun place. There is a swimming pond close to the campground and some open area to play lawn games," reports Stephanie H. about Buffalo River State Park. At Maplewood, "The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping," according to Leslie R.
Clean facilities: Andes RV Park maintains exceptional amenities. "We were in town for a weekend event and Andes RV Park was outstanding! Brand new restroom and shower facilities with laundry," writes Ryan L. Another visitor adds, "The facilities are top-notch, with brand-new, spacious bathrooms and showers that were really nice and clean!"
What you should know
Site locations and access: Many campgrounds near Dent have varied campsite layouts affecting convenience. "Stayed at knoll loop. I enjoyed the privacy of these sites. Road in is a little rough. The showers are at the main campground with plenty of parking. I wouldn't walk that far for the showers," explains Levi S. about Maplewood State Park. Similarly, at Buffalo River, "The campground was pretty open, but it was a fun place."
Seasonal differences: Visitor experiences vary dramatically by season in this region. "We visited the primitive camping. Electric available for RV. Very clean. We were alone in mid September," reports Charles H. about Maplewood State Park. Fall brings spectacular colors while winter offers specialized activities at select parks that maintain year-round operations.
Primitive camping options: Andersons Crossing provides basic amenities for those seeking a more rustic glamping experience near Dent. "This is yet another canoe campsite and canoe launch on the state-designated Crow Wing River Water Trail. This is a good paddle-in stop or primitive camping destination. Though some if the campsite picnic tables have seen better days, the campsites themselves are in good shape, as is the canoe landing," says Janet R.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Glendalough State Park Campground offers excellent swimming and non-motorized boating. "Only Tents Allowed--this is the most serene place! They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in," says Emily R. The park maintains sandy beaches with designated swimming areas safe for children.
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas for children. "We stayed in V5. Not lakeside but nicely secluded. There is a nice beach and the lake is clear. There is a big playground, basketball court, and ball field," notes a visitor to Tipsinah Mounds. These recreational facilities provide entertainment options when kids need a break from water activities.
Cart-in camping introduction: Glendalough State Park offers an excellent introduction to slightly more adventurous camping. "What a wonderful park for families and first time campers. All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat," explains Pete T. The park provides carts to transport gear, making this an accessible experience for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Campers' Paradise requires careful consideration for larger RVs. "They were very clear from the get go that campers over a certain size weren't allowed and while ours isn't huge, maybe 30 foot hitch to bumper, I could see why they were so up front. We fit into our site and were able to get around when we needed to but it was certainly snug at times and some sites would be tough for a rookie to back into I think," advises Jesse E.
Seasonal availability: Most RV campgrounds operate from May through September or October. "We spent 5 days there and it was not enough!! This place has beautiful scenery whether you are in an inside lot or on the lake," writes Lee A. about Campers' Paradise. Sites at popular destinations like Lake Carlos fill quickly during peak summer months.
Hook-up variations: Electric and water access varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "On an island private sites some electric. No water hook up fill before parking," notes Andy R. about Campers' Paradise. Many parks offer a mix of full hookup, partial hookup, and no-hookup sites at different price points.
