Camping sites near Evansville, Minnesota offer diverse options within the rolling prairie and glacial lakes region of west-central Minnesota. The area sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in a transition zone between prairie and deciduous forest ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with humidity levels that can make evenings feel sticky, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Water recreation on motor-free lakes: Glendalough State Park Campground offers a unique experience with non-motorized lakes. "Woah love this park! Has so many things to do... Very clear and calm lakes, sandy, and the little creeks/rivers betwixt them are just begging to be canoed or kayaked," writes one camper. The park rents canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards for exploring these peaceful waters.
Winter activities: Andes RV Park provides year-round recreation opportunities including "cross-country skiing and tubing" in winter months. One visitor notes, "They offer a fantastic range of activities, including golf cart rentals, volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf, pickle ball, etc…and in winter, cross-country skiing and tubing—there's something for everyone!"
Biking and hiking: Lake Carlos State Park features extensive trail systems for outdoor exploration. A reviewer explains, "Close to downtown Alexandria where there are a variety of things to do: breweries and restaurants, shopping, other parks and trails." The park connects to broader regional trail networks, making it ideal for cyclists.
What campers like
Lakefront camping experiences: Tipsinah Mounds City Park receives consistently positive feedback for its lake setting. A camper notes, "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)."
Swimming beaches: Many campers highlight the quality of swimming areas in the region. At Lake Carlos State Park Campground, a visitor comments, "Good lake, had a great swimming beach. Our campsite wasn't private but there are some that are surrounded by trees and private."
Cart-in tent camping: Glendalough State Park offers a more secluded camping experience with cart-in sites. "The tent sites are all cart in, making the scenery the main focus. You don't have to stare at vehicles while you are enjoying a fire, which I love," explains one reviewer. These sites provide a more natural setting while maintaining accessibility.
What you should know
Seasonal operation variations: Most campgrounds in the Evansville area have different operating seasons and availability. Lucky Acres Campgrounds offers "spots right on the beach and a clean shower house" according to a recent visitor, but like many area campgrounds, has limited operating months.
Reservation requirements: Swan Lake Resort & Campground and other popular locations fill quickly, especially for weekend stays. One camper notes, "We intended to stay at the tent site but when we arrived we saw a lovely cabin overlooking the lake and decided to give ourselves a treat."
Site privacy considerations: Chippewa Park has "nice camp views overlooking water" but one camper points out that sites are "spacious but pretty open to other sites." This is common at lakefront campgrounds where views often come at the expense of privacy between sites.
Insect preparation: During summer months, bug protection is essential. An Andes RV Park visitor cautions, "Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Oak Park Kampground offers planned activities that appeal to children. "The kids (3, 5, 7) enjoy the pool, the activities the staff plans, playground, paddle boats, and more," writes one family camper who added, "We will be going back as we get the question from our kids each time we leave, 'when can we go back?'"
Consider parks with educational opportunities: Lake Carlos State Park offers nature programs. "Nature center is really good and all of the staff are great and friendly," notes a visitor. These programs can help keep children engaged during camping trips.
Check for family-friendly amenities: Tipsinah Mounds offers "a nice beach and the lake is clear. There is a big playground, basketball court, and ball field," according to a camper. Some campgrounds even provide unique experiences like "a hay ride (without the hay) around the grounds, kids loved it."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: The Homestead at Ottertail RV Park provides well-designed sites for larger rigs. A returning visitor notes, "ALL SITES HAVE: 20/30/50 amp electrical hook-ups, water and sewer, fire Pits." These full hookup options make extended stays more comfortable.
Seasonal hookup availability: Winter camping requires special considerations for RVers. One Lake Carlos State Park visitor explains their winter experience: "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."
Pull-through accessibility: When traveling with larger RVs, Oak Park Kampground offers "wide and long pull through sites that are big rig friendly with a picnic table and fire ring at each site." This makes setup and departure significantly easier for those with larger recreational vehicles.
