Glamping close to Henderson, Minnesota includes options in both county parks and state parks, with locations typically staying open from April through October. Sites range from basic to full-service with electric hookups, with many providing access to lakeshores for water activities. Temperatures in summer months average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails: Fort Ridgely State Park offers both wooded paths and prairie trails with wildflowers. "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," notes a visitor at Fort Ridgely State Park Campground.
Swimming and cooling off: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas for hot summer days. Flandrau State Park maintains a sand-bottom swimming pool. One camper mentioned, "The sand bottom pool wasn't opened but we've used it on past visits and always enjoyed it. Sites are well maintained and the staff is friendly," according to a review of Flandrau State Park.
Creek exploration: Several parks feature creeks where children can wade. At Fort Ridgely, "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."
What campers like
Private sites: Sakatah Lake State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots. A visitor noted, "It was perfect. There wasn't a lot of people there. The lots are pretty nice and secluded," making it ideal for glamping close to Henderson when seeking privacy.
Lake access: Lake Washington County Park provides boat access to the lake. A camper shared, "This is a county park that is fairly new. Campground host was super nice and very accommodating. The lake is down the road with public access for your boat."
Woodland settings: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers tree-covered sites with varying degrees of seclusion. "I really like the hike in sites. Short walk from the car and right by the water yet spaced nicely for privacy," according to one Cleary Lake Regional Park visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays. Book early for electric sites, which fill quickly.
Mosquitoes and insects: Bug repellent is essential, especially near water. At Bray County Park, a camper warned, "The mosquitoes were so bad they could have carried a small dog."
Water conditions: Lake conditions vary throughout the season. At Rapidan Dam Co Park, the river provides "a great spot with numerous sites along the river. Small trails for car/tent camping. Not trailer friendly. Small vehicles only."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are located near highways. At Minneapolis Southwest KOA, visitors note it's "right off the highway so you hear cars flying by 24/7."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve offers extensive recreation options. A visitor explained, "With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
Safety considerations: Check water depths before allowing children to swim. At Sakatah Lake State Park, "On the lake but you need to be in middle of this lake if you want to get wet. Unless you enjoy swimmers itch."
Bathroom facilities: Look for campgrounds with modern facilities when traveling with young children. At Fort Ridgely, a recent upgrade means "BRAND NEW Bathroom/shower building with large ADA showers."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. One camper at Sakatah Lake State Park mentioned, "One day a ranger came around and offered a wildlife edible 'class' which I decided to go to - that was interesting!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check site reviews for information on terrain. At Minneapolis Southwest KOA, an RVer reported, "The site was very unlevel and the water Spicket didn't really work very well."
Tree clearance: Large RVs may struggle at some parks. At Sakatah Lake State Park, a visitor cautioned, "Very nice park if your RV is not too big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees."
Hookup options: Electric hookups are available at most parks, but water and sewer connections vary. Lake Auburn Campground provides electric but limited sewer hookups. A visitor noted, "While some sites are a little uneven and better suited to RVs than to tents, all sites are spacious and clean."
