Tent camping near Kensington, Minnesota centers around a region dotted with glacial lakes surrounded by prairie and woodland transitions. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, making it ideal for water activities. Fall camping brings colorful foliage but requires warmer sleeping gear as nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s by late September.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Glendalough State Park Campground, the non-motorized Annie Battle Lake provides excellent panfishing opportunities. "We saw many deer, caught many pan fish and observed an eagle in its nest... We can't wait to go back," notes camper Pete T.
Paddling quiet waters: The streams between lakes at Glendalough State Park are perfect for exploring. One visitor observed, "Very clear and calm lakes, sandy, and the little creeks/rivers betwixt them are just begging to be canoed or kayaked."
Beach activities: Swan Lake Resort & Campground offers a sandy beach area with water recreation options. Lagos C. mentioned, "From the sandy beach and wooded trails to the games and activities, there was energy and thought behind every corner."
Winter camping: Some campgrounds in the region remain open year-round. Glendalough State Park operates through winter months, providing opportunities for cold-weather camping, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the trails surrounding Annie Battle Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Glendalough's tent camping area, the natural spacing creates a more immersive experience. Pete T. explains, "The loop of campsites are in a grove of hardwood trees that offered great shade and a contrast to the surrounding prairies."
Nature viewing: Wildlife observation opportunities abound at Elk Lake Campground, where tent sites are positioned close to the lakeshore. Tim B. notes, "There is tent camping a short walk to the lakeshore that seemed nice."
Family-friendly atmosphere: The best tent camping near Kensington includes sites designed with families in mind. "What a wonderful park for families and first time campers," says Pete T. about Glendalough State Park, adding "The campsites were filled with families and things were very quiet by 9 pm each night."
Motor-free lakes: The prohibition of motorized watercraft on certain lakes creates peaceful environments. Emily R. appreciates that at Glendalough, "They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in."
What you should know
Cart-in requirements: Most tent sites at Glendalough require gear transport. Pete T. explains, "All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat."
Alternative accommodations: For those new to camping, Linwood Resort & Campgrounds offers cabins as alternatives to tent sites. Tori K. describes, "Cabins with beautiful lake view, boathouse lodge and game room, sunbathing dock on the water."
Seasonal campers: Some campgrounds like Elk Lake have a mix of overnight and seasonal sites. "This campground has level grassy sites. Most or perhaps all full hookup sites have seasonal RVs but there are a few overnight sites that generally have electric only (30A)," reports Tim B.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds in the area fill quickly during summer weekends. Swan Lake campground offers reservations with limited walk-in availability. Amy J. noted potential challenges: "Only bad thing was owner was not in the office for hours at a time."
Tips for camping with families
Consider yurts for first-timers: Glendalough's yurts provide a comfortable introduction to outdoor stays. Isabelle P. recommends, "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."
Pack for beach activities: God's Country Camping offers access to water recreation, making beach toys and water safety equipment essential. The campground provides drinking water, showers, and toilets while maintaining a natural setting focused on tent camping.
Use carts effectively: When visiting cart-in sites, organize gear by priority. HollyRose M. advises about Glendalough, "The cart in sites and camper cabins are in a little old growth forest area right on the lake up in a little hill area. Spaced out quite well, all have views of lake."
Plan indoor alternatives: Weather changes can impact camping plans. Swan Lake Resort provides indoor options during rain. Kathy D. found that "when we arrived we saw a lovely cabin overlooking the lake and decided to give ourselves a treat. It was very clean and comfortable."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds have restricted RV services. At Swan Lake Resort & Campground, Tracy O. found, "Sites were open and spacious. Hosts were very friendly and helpful. Full hookups." This contrasts with tent-only areas at other nearby campgrounds.
Electrical connections: For RVers needing power, Elk Lake offers some electric hookups though primarily for seasonal residents. "Water is available did not see a dedicated dump station. Stayed 3 nights Was a nice spot," mentions Tim B.
Site accessibility: RV campers should check access routes carefully. Amy J. noted about Swan Lake, "Spaces are wooded and farther apart than most campgrounds. I wish we could have stayed longer than one night."
Camp store services: Some resorts offer supplies for longer stays. At Linwood Resort, Tori K. lists available amenities: "boat ramp and launching service, boat & pontoon rental, boatlifts, gas, oil, tackle and live bait," which benefit both tent campers and RVers during extended stays.
