Detroit Lakes RV parks and campgrounds provide seasonal camping options from May to October across diverse settings. Most facilities close by early autumn with Long Lake operating until September 23 and Forest Hills remaining open through October 1. Walker Lake Preserve offers RV sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service alongside water and sewer hookups. Golden Eagle RV Village in nearby Perham provides similar utility connections through their seasonal operations. Many campgrounds throughout the region offer varying levels of amenities including shower facilities, dump stations, and designated pet areas depending on property management policies.
What to do
Fishing access: Big Pines RV Park provides convenient access to fishing opportunities with its riverside location. "The kids (and adults) enjoyed the river," notes Kelcey K., who appreciated the easy access to both water activities and nearby attractions.
Trail exploration: Campgrounds near Detroit Lakes offer connectivity to regional trails. "The Heartland Trail is a few blocks away, downtown is also close by, but yet, it didn't feel like we were in town," reports a Big Pines RV Park visitor who found the balance between nature and convenience ideal for weekend exploration.
Casino entertainment: Shooting Star RV Park and Casino combines camping with gaming opportunities. "The cost was about $25 per night so definitely a great deal for full hookups. We spent a lot of our time in the casino while we were here," explains Glenda D., highlighting the value proposition for campers interested in entertainment.
Water recreation: Walker Lake Preserve provides direct lake access for swimmers and boaters. "Nice beach. Good Fishing. Friendly People. Lots to do," confirms Jim M., summarizing the appeal of this waterfront camping option.
What campers like
Affordable full hookups: RV accommodations at Shooting Star offer budget-friendly rates with complete utility connections. "There are quite a few RV sites at Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen and they offer full hookups! The cost was about $25 per night so definitely a great deal," notes a camper who appreciated the value.
Clean facilities: Birchmere Resort & Campground maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "Bathrooms are very clean and showers are spacious," reports Patti E., who considered facility cleanliness a standout feature despite compact camping spaces.
Reliable connectivity: Some Detroit Lakes area campgrounds offer strong internet access for remote workers. "We also worked full time from a spot by the main office and their onsite WiFi was pretty fast ~50/10 mbps," explains Lee G. about Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort, highlighting technology infrastructure that supports extended stays.
Beach quality: Long Lake Campsite provides substantial waterfront access. "It has a long strip of a beach," notes Shari M., who mentioned the sandy shoreline as a primary attraction despite acknowledging that "spaces are close."
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs considerably across Detroit Lakes RV parks. "The campground probably has 20% more trailers in place than need be. Over-crowded," observes Douglas B. about Long Lake, contrasting with other properties offering more separation between units.
Weekend crowding: Seasonal patterns affect camping experiences in this region. "I imagined that it would be mightily crowded on weekends. If you are a family with little kids, it could be great. Otherwise, maybe not," advises a Long Lake visitor who observed the property during a midweek stay.
Seasonal residents: Many Detroit Lakes campgrounds host seasonal occupants, which impacts availability for overnight campers. "Most campsites are seasonal so make your reservations early," warns a Birchmere Resort camper, indicating the importance of advance planning.
Downtown proximity: Crow Wing Inn Motel and RV Park offers practical access to small-town services. "Within easy walking distance, there is a small grocery, two gas stations, a laundry, bar, bank and bakery. As well as a walking trail and a small park," reports Amy G., highlighting convenience factors despite basic amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Long Lake Campsite provides dedicated waterfront space for families. "Large sandy beach and beautiful swimming area, store for convenience if forgetful, helpful and friendly staff, huge parking and play area for kids," notes Travis L., emphasizing multiple family-friendly features.
Space considerations: Some parks have limited room between campsites. "Next campers slide out was over the tent. Wouldn't stop me from staying there again though!" shares a Birchmere Resort camper who managed to accommodate both a small camper and tent despite tight quarters.
Boat activity levels: Water traffic varies between lakes and may affect family camping experiences. "Lots of boats on the beach! All in all it's very busy with lots of activity," observes a Long Lake visitor, suggesting families consider whether they prefer active or quieter waterfront settings.
Tips from RVers
Basic service options: RV parks around Detroit Lakes range from minimalist to full-service. "Crow Wing Inn and RV Park is exactly what it says it is... It's definitely not fancy, by any stretch of the imagination, but it's not a dirt pad," explains a visitor who found the no-frills approach functional for overnight stops.
Site selection strategy: At Shooting Star, spacing concerns can be mitigated by timing. "Although the sites are close together, there were quite a few empty sites so we felt like it was semi-private," suggests Glenda D., who found weekday or off-peak visits provided better spacing between occupied units.
Big rig accommodation: Multiple Detroit Lakes area RV parks accommodate larger motorhomes. "We were pleasantly surprised... our lot was decent size, full hookups," reports a Big Pines visitor, though availability of pull-through sites and adequate turning radius varies by facility.
