Buffalo River State Park Campground, located near Glyndon, Minnesota, sits at approximately 980 feet above sea level in a region where the tallgrass prairie meets deciduous forest. The campground features 44 sites spread across two loops, with seasonal operation from April through November. Temperatures range from summer highs in the mid-80s to occasional spring and fall nights below freezing.
What to do
Prairie hiking trails: Buffalo River State Park offers several hiking paths through pristine native prairie, a rare ecosystem in Minnesota. "We often take our dog here on the weekends for longer, out of city limits walks. The trails are the perfect amount for that purpose and he enjoys the wildlife that hides in the natural prairie fauna," notes Brianna V. about Buffalo River State Park Campground.
Swimming pond exploration: The park maintains a designated swimming area that provides a natural alternative to chlorinated pools. According to Patrick M., the campground is "spectacularly well-maintained" with "several looping hiking trails start in and around the campground, so you can put together a hike from 15 minutes to two hours."
Fishing opportunities: Visitors to Maplewood State Park Campground can enjoy fishing in the park's lakes. "Another draw is the lake. Bring your boat or rent one. There is even a place to clean your catch," mentions Art S., making this a practical option for anglers camping near Glyndon.
What campers like
Meticulously maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of Buffalo River's facilities. "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. Not a scrap of trash the restrooms clean and well stocked," reports StaceeQ Q.
Spacious, private sites: The campground layout provides good separation between sites. "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," adds StaceeQ Q. about Buffalo River State Park Campground.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Glyndon, Minnesota, Red River Valley Fairgrounds offers alternative glamping accommodations with "level sites with cement pad. Some pull through most back in. Amazingly, very quiet at night," according to kim B. These structured camping options provide comfort while maintaining outdoor access.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation required: Summer visitors should come prepared with insect repellent. "The campsite was spacious and nicely kept. There was a water filling station and toilets and showers near by. It was great. Tons of mosquitos though make sure you have spray," warns Sophia P. about her experience at Buffalo River.
Seasonal limitations: The swimming area is only available during warmer months, typically late May through early September depending on weather conditions. Water activities are not available during spring and fall visits.
Bathroom access varies by loop: Some camping areas require longer walks to reach facilities. At Maplewood State Park Campground, "There is a very long walk to a restroom but water is close by. The site is large and has enough room for two cars. This is a great site as long as you don't mind the walk," notes Art S.
Tips for camping with families
Select shaded sites for summer comfort: The prairie environment can become hot in summer months. "We stayed in the larger loop with electrical service: half the loop backing up against the prairie (lower numbers) and the other half backing up against the woods (higher numbers)," advises Patrick M., suggesting that higher-numbered sites provide better shade for families with children.
Consider river proximity with children: While the Buffalo River is accessible, supervision is necessary. "The trails hug the river so there's easy enough access if you wanted to play in the water. You do have to walk through some brush however, so be aware," cautions Brianna V. from Buffalo River State Park Campground.
Pack lawn games: The open areas provide space for recreational activities. "There is a swimming pond close to the campground and some open area to play lawn games," mentions Stephanie H., highlighting opportunities for family entertainment.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Most sites provide electrical connections but lack water and sewer hookups at individual sites. "This was a really nice campground. It just has power at some of the sites and no water/sewer, but there was a dump station on the way in. The sites were nicely spaced and we had some shade," notes a visitor to Buffalo River.
Fairground alternative for full hookups: RVers needing complete utility connections can consider Kidder Recreation Area as an alternative. "There's a short row of camp spots in the sun for campers. Seems like a good portion of it is full of people who are here all the time," explains Teresa T., though she notes the area feels less natural than state park options.
Connectivity considerations: Mobile reception is generally good throughout the area, facilitating online reservations. "While I got in late, the registration was all online (open til 10pm) and the reception was strong," shares Maddy T. about her experience at Buffalo River State Park.
