Cabin camping near French, Minnesota provides rustic to modern accommodations throughout Otter Tail County. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer highs reach the mid-80s with occasional thunderstorms. The region's glacial topography creates numerous lakes with sandy beaches ideal for fishing and water activities at cabin sites.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Lake Carlos State Park offers numerous wooded hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. "Small park but still a great place to get outdoors for the day. No motors allowed on the lakes, so canoeing, kayaking and fishing are great," notes a visitor to Lake Carlos State Park Campground.
Fall color viewing: Maplewood State Park showcases spectacular autumn foliage from mid-September to early October. "Lots of maple tree's red, orange colors in fall," reports a camper at Maplewood State Park Campground. The park's elevation changes provide sweeping views across colored hillsides.
Winter activities: Some cabin locations remain open year-round with winter programming. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter," shares a Lake Carlos visitor who enjoyed the seasonal offerings.
What campers like
Private lakefront access: Cabins with direct water access rank highly among visitors. "From the sandy beach and wooded trails to the games and activities, there was energy and thought behind every corner," reports a guest at Swan Lake Resort & Campground.
Non-motorized lake options: Several parks restrict motorized boats, creating peaceful environments. "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," states a camper from Glendalough State Park Campground.
Wooded privacy: Sites with natural screening between cabins receive favorable mentions. "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," notes a Maplewood State Park visitor regarding site selection.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "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," mentions a Swan Lake Resort visitor.
Bathroom accessibility: Many cabin areas have vault toilets nearby but may require walking. "Site 33 is by itself on the access road to a small non-electric loop. This meant no distraction for my dog and let the bird song entertain us. There is a very long walk to a restroom but water is close by," explains a Maplewood camper.
Seasonal considerations: Tick activity increases in warmer months in grassy areas. "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," warns a visitor about trail conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin selection for amenities: Different cabins offer varying comfort levels for children. "I stayed in the group site here and it was wonderful, we were along the water and there was good spots to put up tents, very clean and a neat area in general!" reports a visitor to Glendalough State Park.
Playground access: Several parks include play equipment near cabin areas. "A basketball court, playground, a nice Sandy beach. Tent sites right by lake. Great for fishing and all types of water sports," explains a visitor to Tipsinah Mounds City Park.
Water safety planning: Cabin proximity to water requires vigilance with children. "Large drive-through sites for RVs nice sitting close to the lake," notes a visitor to Golden Eagle Campground, highlighting the need for water safety awareness.
Tips from RVers
Winter heating options: Electric sites allow for cold-weather camping with appropriate gear. "We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent. A couple and their 2 dogs 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!" shares a winter visitor to Lake Carlos State Park.
Site selection strategy: Lakefront sites offer views but less privacy than wooded areas. "This campground is right by a lake with almost every activity you could think of! Only bad thing was owner was not in the office for hours at a time. Spaces are wooded and farther apart than most campgrounds," notes a Swan Lake Resort camper.
Campground layout considerations: Understanding the layout helps with planning activities. "We are camping/glamping in 30' fifth wheel. 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!" explains a Lake Carlos State Park visitor.
