Cabin rentals near Kensington, Minnesota range from rustic to modern accommodations with varying amenities. Most sites are situated within 30 miles of Kensington in established state parks and private resorts. Winter temperatures in the region can drop below 0°F, making heated cabins particularly valuable for off-season stays, while summer highs typically reach 80-85°F with occasional humidity.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on no-motor lakes: At Glendalough State Park Campground, visitors enjoy peaceful water activities. "Small park but still a great place to get outdoors for the day. No motors allowed on the lakes, so canoeing, kayaking and fishing are great," notes Dan C. The park offers watercraft rentals for those without their own equipment.
Swimming at sandy beaches: Lake areas provide swimming opportunities throughout the warmer months. At Lake Carlos State Park Campground, "There is a lower portion and upper portion with the lower campground being lakefront. Close to downtown Alexandria where there are a variety of things to do: breweries and restaurants, shopping, other parks and trails," according to Tori K.
Winter activities: Several parks maintain winter programming. Lake Carlos State Park offers lantern-lit snowshoe trails during winter months. As Tori K. describes, "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Andes RV Park in Kensington receives praise for its cleanliness. "Nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise. Golf cart rentals, and trails from the park," shares Helen V.
Lakefront options: Many cabin renters appreciate water views. At Tipsinah Mounds City Park, "most lots are lake front. camper spots are easy to get into and spacious. two primitive areas, one by the beach and the other is tucked back in the trees (super secluded)," according to Ross B.
Variety of accommodation types: The region offers everything from rustic tents to fully-equipped cabins. Jaime N. describes one option at Pomme De Terre Campground as "Glorious primitive spot. Overlooks the Pomme De Terre River, free to camp, wayside rest and with canoe drop in."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during summer. For winter stays, options become more limited but are available at select parks.
Bathroom access: Bathroom proximity varies significantly by cabin location. At Oak Ridge Campground — Sibley State Park, one visitor noted the facilities were "nice and the restrooms and showers are close," though another reviewer mentioned they were "clean but dated."
Bugs and ticks: Prepare for seasonal insects. At Glacial Lakes State Park, one camper reported, "Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray."
Firewood availability: Most parks sell firewood on-site, though pricing varies. At Lake Carlos State Park, "Firewood is available at the office," according to multiple reviews.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many parks include child-friendly facilities. At Games Lake County Park, visitors find "a playground and beach area with a slide. Be sure to check out some of the local attractions!" notes Tori K.
Multi-generational sites: Some campgrounds offer grouped sites for family reunions. Oak Ridge Campground provides options where "If you're looking for ease of access to multiple camping spots (for a family get together with extended family) sites after 94 would be great for that," shares a recent visitor.
Water activities for kids: Swimming beaches with varied amenities exist throughout the region. At Tipsinah Mounds, "There is a nice beach and the lake is clear. There is a big playground, basketball court, and ball field," according to Lisa.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy and spacing. At Lake Carlos State Park, "The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time. Feels like we are deep in the forest but civilization is close enough for WiFi!" reports Michele.
Winter RV options: Limited winter camping exists for RVs. At Lake Carlos State Park, one camper described, "We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent. A couple and their 2 dogs stayed in the truck camper and me and another friend stayed in the clam with an electric space heater."
Delivery services: Some campgrounds offer convenient amenities. At Andes RV Park, "The firewood and the ice delivery service were a convenient touch, and easy as a quick phone call or text," according to a visitor named Canada0718 F.
