Fergus Falls sits at the western edge of Minnesota's lake country, with over 1,000 lakes within a 50-mile radius. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F, while summer averages reach 80°F, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. The area features rolling hills formed by ancient glaciers, with prairie landscapes transitioning to deciduous forests.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: At Glendalough State Park Campground, water recreation options include motorless lakes ideal for swimming and paddling. "Perfect for an easy, relaxing camping trip. With the opportunity to spend time on a non-motorized boating lake, two streams, plenty of fishing, lots of trails and family picnic spots along a swim beach, it's perfect for every level of camper," notes a visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple species are available across the region's lakes. "Maplewood State Park encompasses eight lakes where you can fish for species ranging from crappie and bass to northern pike and walleye," according to park information. One camper at Tipsinah Mounds City Park mentioned, "Great for fishing and all types of water sports. Not far from the MN Central Lakes Bike Trail."
Winter recreation: Cold months offer unique experiences. At Lake Carlos State Park Campground, winter activities include "lantern-lit snowshoe trails." A visitor shared, "We xcountry skied before dark. The trails were icy, but still enjoyable. At dark we headed to the candlelight event. We hiked 1.2 miles and then snowshoed 2.4 miles."
What campers like
Prairie and forest access: The region features diverse ecosystems within short distances. Buffalo River State Park offers "miles of hiking with the North Country Trail weaving throughout. The fall colors were just starting but popped in the prairie," notes one visitor. Another camper mentioned, "Several rangers directed us here so we stopped in before we left Minnesota. The drive in was a few miles but it gave a view of the variety of ecosystems in the park."
Glamping close to Fergus Falls, Minnesota: For those seeking comfort without sacrificing nature immersion, Andes RV Park provides glamping options with modern amenities. "Brand new restroom and shower facilities with laundry," reports one visitor. Another mentioned, "Friendly service was in the easy check-in and checkout process. It has outstanding trails that they use in the winter time for cross-country skiing with tons of outdoor activities."
Quiet locations: Many sites offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Maplewood State Park, a camper noted, "The sites without any hookups are more private and secluded, great for tent camping. There are lots of walking trails as some fishing spots as well. We absolutely loved it here and will definitely be back!"
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campgrounds vary in privacy levels. At Buffalo River State Park Campground, "Sites are large and come with picnic tables and a fire pit you can also grill on. The sites are covered with lush live well manicured trees and they've taken the time to make nice greenway breaks between each campsite." However, some parks have less private options: "The sites in the main loop have little privacy."
Insect preparation: Summer brings mosquitoes to the region. One Andes RV Park visitor warned, "Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!" Another camper at Buffalo River State Park mentioned, "We tried out hiking along one of the trails. The grass was long and we quickly found ticks crawling up our leg. More trimming of the trails would make hiking more pleasant."
Seasonal access: Not all facilities remain open year-round. Lake Carlos State Park offers limited winter camping: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Several parks feature dedicated swimming areas. "There is a nice Sandy beach. Tent sites right by lake. Great for fishing and all types of water sports," reports a visitor to Hankinson City Park. Another camper at Maplewood State Park Campground mentioned, "There are lots of walking trails as some fishing spots as well."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond water recreation, families find various options. Tipsinah Mounds City Park offers "a basketball court, playground, a nice Sandy beach." The park includes "volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, and a fish cleaning station. Great place to go kayaking!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer chances to spot local fauna. At Glendalough State Park, "We saw many deer, caught many pan fish and observed an eagle in it's nest." This provides educational experiences for children learning about regional ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between parks. At Tipsinah Mounds City Park, sites include "30 amp electric picnic table and trash cans. Dump station at the pay box but no water." Buffalo River State Park offers more options with "plenty of spots to choose from with a good amount of space. However, the website on this app is not correct and I ended up waiting until I got here."
Site access considerations: RV-friendly glamping near Fergus Falls requires planning for size restrictions. At Glendalough State Park, "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." For large rigs, Maplewood State Park accommodates bigger vehicles with "sites with electrical hook up are less private, but it's a family camping site so it's very friendly."
