Glamping options near Horton, Minnesota range from rustic yurts to comfortable cabins located on small lakes and within state parks. Winter temperatures in this northern Minnesota region frequently drop below 0°F, while summer highs average in the mid-70s. The area sits at approximately 1,400 feet above sea level and features glacial lakes surrounded by pine forests and hardwood groves that provide natural screening between most camping sites.
What to do
Paddling lakes without motors: Annie Battle Lake at Glendalough State Park Campground prohibits motorized boats, creating ideal conditions for kayaking and canoeing. "This is one of the few state parks where they have canoe-in sites. It's right in the heart of lake country so there's always water around you," notes Jason S.
Wade across the Mississippi headwaters: The beginning point of the Mississippi River runs through Itasca State Park, where visitors can literally walk across the river's start. "Here you can wade across the very beginning of the Mississippi River," mentions Jeff S. in his review of Pine Ridge Campground.
Winter activities during glamping stays: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails remain accessible during winter months when staying in heated accommodations. "Winter glamping is also available at select locations, with heated accommodations providing a cozy base for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing," making these activities accessible even in colder months.
What campers like
Island camping experience: Campers' Paradise offers a unique island setting accessed via a one-lane causeway. "Campers' Paradise is island camping that you get to by driving across a 1 lane road to get to the island. There are lakefront sites or interior sites but this is as close to beach front camping as you will get in MN!" shares Melissa H.
Clean modern facilities: Many glamping sites feature unexpectedly well-maintained washrooms and shower facilities. "The facilities were amazing! That isn't hyperbole, they were so very clean and modern that we used them instead of our own camper most of the time," according to Jesse E. at Campers' Paradise.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Backcountry glamping sites provide access to diverse wildlife. "I stayed for 2 nights. It was beautiful and serene... Woke up to trumpeter swans each day. Loved it," reports Brent G. about his stay at Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "We loved our one week there so much that we've asked to be put onto a permanent renewal because we will be going back over and over," mentions a Campers' Paradise visitor, highlighting the need to book well ahead.
Site accessibility varies: Some glamping locations require physical effort to reach. "The trail is a beginner level trail. A couple uphills, but nothing too bad," notes Brent G. about reaching Deer Park Lake Backcountry Campsite.
Limited RV access at certain sites: Maplewood State Park Campground and other locations have size restrictions. "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," warns Oliver I.
Tips for camping with families
Secure glamping options for beginner families: First-time campers with children should consider structures with solid walls. "My friend & I stayed in their Osprey yurt, and it was perfect for our first camping trip together. I recommend yurts if you're not 100% comfortable with/enjoy staying in a tent," advises Isabelle P. about Glendalough State Park.
Look for water activities near campsites: Sites with beach access provide entertainment for children. "Family camping RV sites have playground right there. Paddle Boats available and swimming beach. Right on the lake so kids spent a lot of time in the lake and on the lake fishing," shares Lisa P. about Tuck-a-way Resort.
Check for recreational rentals: Many locations offer equipment to borrow or rent. "What a wonderful park for families and first time campers. All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites," notes Pete T. about Glendalough State Park.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for RVs: Several glamping destinations close to Horton have restrictions on larger vehicles. "They were very clear from the get go that campers over a certain size weren't allowed and while ours isn't huge, maybe 30 foot hitch to bumper, I could see why they were so up front," explains Jesse E. from Sunset Pines Campground.
Access challenges for larger units: Maneuvering to some sites requires experience. "We fit into our site and were able to get around when we needed to but it was certainly snug at times and some sites would be tough for a rookie to back into I think," continues Jesse E.
Seasonal site advantages: At certain campgrounds, seasonal sites provide better amenities. "We had a decent time at this campground. The seasonal sites are much nicer than the regular ones," mentions Brent G. about Tuck-a-way Resort.
