Cabin rentals near Glencoe, Minnesota typically range from rustic to deluxe options within a 60-minute drive. This central Minnesota region features gently rolling terrain with numerous lakes and wooded areas, sitting at approximately 1,000 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during peak camping season, with moderate rainfall creating lush landscapes around cabin accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Lake Maria State Park offers numerous wooded trails where you can explore Minnesota's natural beauty. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here â in the best way," notes one visitor about Site B6 at Lake Maria State Park.
Prairie exploration: Fort Ridgely State Park features stunning summer wildflower displays along its trails. "In JULY The Prairie Trails are stunning with all the wild flowers in full bloom. Many trails and nice overlooks too. I walked and hiked the trail over and over because of the beautiful flowers," explains one Fort Ridgely visitor.
Creek wading: Multiple cabin sites offer access to shallow creek areas perfect for cooling off. "The creek through the campground is beautiful and the sound of water over the rock is great for sleeping. The creek is cool temperature even in July but kids have fun swimming and splashing," reports a Fort Ridgely camper.
What campers like
Private woodland settings: Cabin sites at Lake Maria provide secluded natural surroundings. "Site B6 feels like a secret woodland sanctuary â set up on a slight rise, tucked beneath a cathedral of towering oaks and maples," shares a satisfied Lake Maria camper.
Swimming options: Flandrau State Park features a sand-bottom pool for cabin guests. "Lovely park to camp at! There is a beach for swimming. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," notes a visitor at Flandrau State Park.
Historical attractions: Fort Ridgely offers educational opportunities alongside cabin accommodations. "The MN State Historical Society could do a much better job at EDUCATING what really happened at the Fort and why. Make sure to read up about the fort before arriving so that you can appreciate the importance of the site you're camping on," advises one camper.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin rentals require advance planning, particularly during summer. "As most State parks in MN you better get your reservation in early if you want a site with electric. If your good without. It's a great park," advises a visitor at Sakatah Lake State Park.
Cabin furnishings: Expect basic accommodations that require bringing your own supplies. "The cabin is here! It has a screen porch and a propane tank for heating it in cold weather! Also has a decent view of the riverâ inside is just some bunk beds and a table," notes a Minneopa State Park visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Some cabin facilities have limited availability in colder months. "The shower facility is located in the chalet near the main office. Unlike most state parks, there is a $2 fee to shower," points out a Fort Ridgely camper.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several cabin locations offer chances to spot local animals. "Had tons of peaceful animal visitors including herds of white tail deer walking through our camp ground! Owls and coyotes singing in the distance," shares a visitor at Flandrau State Park.
Child-friendly activities: Look for cabins with nearby recreational options. "This campground is a gem so very close to the Twin Cities. The sites are good sized, and the bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be," mentions a Baker Park Reserve camper.
Bug preparation: Minnesota's cabin areas can have significant insect activity. "The black flies were vicious, so be careful," warns one Lake Maria visitor, while another advises: "Pack light and bring permethrin-treated clothes during bug season."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking cabin-alternative options, consider specific site characteristics. "The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very, but that is offset by all the other positives this campground has to offer," explains a Baker Park visitor.
Dump station access: For those bringing RVs to cabin-oriented parks, check facility availability. "Roads that were poorly maintained trucks were parked sticking out into the road making it difficult to get around... the dump station didn't really work very well," cautions a Minneapolis Southwest KOA visitor.
Electrical considerations: Cabin alternatives with hookups vary across the region. "We had a tent site with no hook ups. The site was spacious and private-surrounded on 3 sides by trees," reports a camper, highlighting alternative accommodations when cabins aren't available.
