Memorial Park in Granite Falls sits along the Minnesota River at 912 feet elevation, experiencing warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters dropping to 0°F. The park's camping season typically runs from May through September with shorter availability for some glamping options in early spring and late fall. Rainfall in the region averages 25-30 inches annually, making late summer an optimal time for luxury camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking trails with river access: The Fort Ridgely State Park Campground offers multiple hiking paths with varied difficulty levels. "The hiking was easy - which was good for me on this trip. Nothing too high of a climb or rocky. Just a beautiful stroll in the woods," notes one visitor. The park features a creek that runs through the campground where "kids had a blast playing in the creek."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lac qui Parle County Park provides excellent wildlife observation areas. "We had a lovely weekend overlooking Lac Qui Parle from our campsite. The lack of mature trees on the upper campground bluffs is a plus. A gentle breeze keeps the bugs down and allows for nice views," reports a camper. The park's elevated position creates ideal viewing platforms for spotting native birds and wildlife.
Historical site exploration: The Alexander Ramsey Park contains educational opportunities about local history. "Nice campground with lots of hiking trails that take you along the river and a few falls. Great family place with all of the animals they have to feed including buffalo, goats, elk, geese, and prairie dogs!" writes one reviewer. The park maintains historical structures and informational displays throughout the grounds.
What campers like
Quiet, secluded sites: Many glamping locations near Granite Falls offer privacy away from busier campgrounds. At Games Lake County Park, "This is a nicely forested family-oriented campground on the shores of Games Lake. Though not quite as nice as the nearby Sibley State Park, it has easy access to it as well as the Glacial Lakes bike trail, plus is set on a nice lake with fishing, boating, and swimming available."
River sounds for sleeping: Riverside glamping sites provide natural white noise. "Campsite 37 is right on a bend in the river and has an amazing view! Most others along the river don't have the view but you can still sleep to the sound of running water," says a Fort Ridgely camper. The sound of flowing water creates a relaxing atmosphere for overnight stays.
Newly updated facilities: Several glamping destinations feature modern amenities. "The campground is shady, quiet, and clean. The bathroom is remodeled and was very clean. There is a new pavilion and playground with a small Zipline. The last 2 sites around the corner are very private," reports a visitor to Memorial Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most luxury camping options operate with limited schedules. "We stayed at site 21 in late August of 2019. It's obvious that the park had some heavy flooding earlier in the year. A lot of the waterfront sites became sandy," notes a Fort Ridgely camper. Spring flooding can affect site conditions through early summer.
Varied cell service: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. At Lake Shetek, one camper reported, "No cell phone coverage at the campground but there is service around the historical site." Similarly, at Oak Woods Campground, a visitor noted the limited connectivity but appreciated the break from technology.
Reservations required: Many glamping sites book quickly during peak season. "Half of the site require reservations," notes a Memorial Park visitor. Booking windows typically open 3-4 months in advance for most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: "The park offers recreational rentals (canoes, kayaks, etc.), but we were a little too early for them to be available," shares an Oak Woods camper. When selecting a glamping site with children, prioritize locations with play equipment within walking distance of your accommodation.
Wildlife education opportunities: Camden State Park Campground provides excellent nature viewing. "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan. We saw deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a mink. We heard coyotes the first night," reports a family. These encounters create natural learning experiences for children.
Swimming options: "There is a swimming pond, hiking trails, and right on the redwood river. The Camden Regional trail is 14 miles of paved trails between Camden State Park and Marshall, MN," notes a regular Camden visitor. Water access provides cooling recreation during hot summer days.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: When glamping with larger vehicles, check site grade. "Hard surface parking with grass surround and gravel picnic table area. Newer power 30 and 50 amp. Good att cell signal but no satellite view in most sites. Current RV rate is $22. Fairly level sites," details a Memorial Park visitor.
Hookup availability: Utility access varies widely between glamping locations. "We stayed at Ft. Ridgley horse camp. Very nice horse camp, with electric hookups, and water at every site. Bathrooms and showers right in horse camp," shares a Fort Ridgely visitor. Always verify which utilities are available before booking.
Privacy considerations: "The sites are close together and not very many mature trees between sites," notes a Fort Ridgely camper. When luxury camping with larger equipment, research site spacing to ensure adequate room for slide-outs and outdoor living areas.
