Maplewood State Park Campground sits within a 9,200-acre property in Otter Tail County, located approximately 20 miles northeast of Erhard, Minnesota. The terrain combines rolling hills, dense maple forests, and pristine lakes accessible via trails and designated access points. Trail elevations range from 1,250 to 1,600 feet above sea level, offering varying difficulty levels for hikers and riders throughout the park.
What to do
Beach activities at Lake Carlos: Lake Carlos State Park features a sandy swimming beach with designated swimming areas. "Large beach area for swimming and pylons to tie up boats. Good trail system and a great swimming area," notes Jay H. from Lake Carlos State Park Campground.
Snowshoeing in winter: Winter activities continue when most camping areas close down. "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. There are ponds and bogs that they create snowshoe trails on," writes Joanna B. about winter recreation at Lake Carlos.
Fishing from campsites: Some areas offer direct fishing access from the campsite. "There is a nice fire pit and good area for fishing right at the site. Also there is a picnic table and a vault toilet," reports Shawn A. about the Beers Hike-In Site, making it convenient for anglers.
Hiking the North Country Trail: This national scenic trail passes through multiple state parks in the region. "Easily a contender for best hiking trails in the MN state parks state system. This western park offers miles of hiking with the North Country Trail weaving throughout," mentions Will H. about Maplewood State Park Campground.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Several campgrounds offer more remote sites for those seeking privacy. "Stayed at knoll loop. I enjoyed the privacy of these sites. Road in is a little rough," reports Levi S. about Maplewood State Park's non-electric loop.
Fall colors: The maple forests provide exceptional autumn viewing. "Lots of maple tree's red, orange colors in fall," writes Denise D. The North Country Trail offers prime leaf-viewing spots throughout the region.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning hours provide the best chances to see local wildlife. "Very nice and peaceful with the loons singing in the morning," shares Denise D. about dawn at Maplewood State Park.
Quiet camping experiences: Smaller campgrounds offer tranquil stays. "I was lucky enough to get a spot far under the trees. It was quite private and even though it was labor day weekend, it was quiet and peaceful," writes Teresa T. about Hankinson Hills Campground.
What you should know
Site location considerations: Distance to facilities varies significantly between sites. "The campsites are reasonable and private. But if you're not in the main loop you'll be walking for half a mile round trip," cautions Oliver I. about Maplewood State Park.
Trail maintenance varies: Some trails may need more grooming depending on season. "The grass was long and we quickly found ticks crawling up our leg. More trimming of the trails would make hiking more pleasant," advises Art S.
Insects can be problematic: Prepare accordingly for biting insects. "Only downside was the abundance of biting flies and mosquitoes," notes Katie L. about Hankinson Hills.
Winter camping options: Limited sites remain available during winter months. "They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter. We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent," explains Tori K. about Lake Carlos State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Backpacking with kids: Some hike-in sites are accessible enough for family adventures. "Great backpacking site to take your family. Take the Maplewood church road into the site. There is enough room to park 1 (maybe 2) vehicles. The walk is an easy walk," suggests Shawn A.
Nature center activities: Educational opportunities exist for children. "Nature center is really good and all of the staff are great and friendly. Definitely worth checking out," recommends Jay H.
Group camping amenities: Specialized areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "Group camping comes with its own bathroom building and shelter building with wood stove. The water is quite clean. Also there's even hot water in the bathroom," reports Willis M. about Lake Carlos State Park.
Off-season experiences: Less crowded periods offer unique family opportunities. "I camped here during an MEA weekend in October and even though we woke up to snow covering our tent, it was a great experience!" shares Ellen F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Look for designated areas that accommodate bigger vehicles. "The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time. Feels like we are deep in the forest but civilization is close enough for WiFi!" reports Michele about her 30' fifth wheel at Lake Carlos State Park.
Accessibility considerations: Road conditions vary by season. "It is well off the main road but the dirt road is passable with any rig. The sites are varied, well kept and some will fit larger rigs," notes Doug W. about camping at Hankinson Hills.
Winter RV camping: Prepare for cold-weather stays with proper equipment. "We stayed in the truck camper and me and another friend stayed in the clam with an electric space heater going in addition to our 0 degree bags. It stayed pretty cozy!" recalls Tori K. about winter camping.
Services and hookups: Check in advance for available amenities. "Showed up on a Thursday night, and I am the sole camper in the entire place. Nicely set up, and seems well cared for," writes Brendon K. about equestrian camping near Erhard at Hankinson Hills.
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