The Fergus Falls area sits within western Minnesota's lakes region, characterized by glacial terrain at approximately 1,200 feet elevation. Over 1,000 lakes dot Otter Tail County, providing exceptional water-based recreation opportunities. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights in spring and fall.
What to do
Swimming access: Buffalo River State Park Campground offers a swimming pond close to the campground with "less chlorine than you'd ever get exposed to in a public pool and picnic table access with lots of area to picnic," according to Brianna V.
Fishing opportunities: Walker Lake Preserve provides both lake access and good fishing conditions. Jim M. notes, "Nice beach. Good Fishing. Friendly People. Lots to do. We always look forward to our time there."
Trail exploration: Buffalo River State Park Campground features "several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours," as Patrick M. explains.
Water recreation: Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort provides extensive waterfront options with "a long strip of a beach but spaces are close. Lots of boats on the beach!" as Shari M. describes.
What campers like
Beach amenities: Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort features a "large sandy beach and beautiful swimming area, store for convenience if forgetful, helpful and friendly staff, huge parking and play area for kids," according to Travis L.
Family activities: Swan Lake Resort & Campground offers numerous recreation options. Gabe C. mentions, "Loved our stay! Super easy setup for our camper and tons of activities to do as a family!"
Well-maintained facilities: Buffalo River State Park receives praise for cleanliness. StaceeQ Q. states, "If you want the best kept state park I have seen this is the place. Beautiful, quiet, well maintained, and wildlife give this park a perfect 10 for me."
Connectivity: For remote workers, some campgrounds offer reliable internet. Lee G. noted about Long Lake Campsite-RV Resort: "We stayed here for an entire week and felt very welcomed. We also worked full time from a spot by the main office and their onsite WiFi was pretty fast ~50/10 mbps."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most rv parks near Fergus Falls operate from May through September/October. Prairie Cove Campground & RV Park in Ashby specifically runs "May 1 to October 1," while Buffalo River State Park extends slightly longer from "April to November."
Reservation requirements: During summer months, advance booking is essential. At Swan Lake Resort & Campground, the popularity is evident as "from the sandy beach and wooded trails to the games and activities, there was energy and thought behind every corner," notes Lagos C.
Varied experiences: Campgrounds range from quiet, natural settings to more developed resorts. Douglas B. observed about Long Lake: "The staff was wonderful and the area clean and picked-up. That said, the campground probably has 20% more trailers in place than need be. Over-crowded."
Insect preparation: The lakes region can have significant mosquito activity. At Buffalo River State Park, Sophia P. warns, "To s of mosquitos though make sure you have spray."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: The Homestead at Ottertail RV Park and Resort provides numerous family-friendly amenities. Sheila K. shares, "We absolutely love this campground! We've camped there every year since 2019! Great owners, great amenities, close to many lakes…not much else you could ask for!"
Recreation amenities: Swan Lake offers facilities beyond just camping. Tracy O. notes, "We only stayed here overnight but the sites were open and spacious. Hosts were very friendly and helpful. Full hookups. Beautiful cabins. Beautiful lake views."
Space considerations: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. Buffalo River State Park provides "well spaced sites, with some screening between sites," according to Patrick M.
Alternative accommodation: For families not ready for tent camping, cabin options exist. Kathy D. says about Swan Lake: "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. It was very clean and comfortable."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Andes RV Park in Kensington provides spacious sites for larger rigs. Helen V. notes it's a "nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise."
Facilities quality: Bathroom and shower quality varies across Fergus Falls rv parks. Ryan L. reports that Andes RV Park has "brand new restroom and shower facilities with laundry."
Noise considerations: Some RV campgrounds maintain quieter environments than others. At Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground, Roger B. cautions, "It is an active gun range so if shooting bothers you, may not be your place."
Accessibility: Many campgrounds accommodate larger RVs with pull-through sites. Alexandria Shooting Park offers "all lots, (lots of lots), were level and had water & electric. Super easy check in," according to Roger B.
