Camping near Lake Benton, Minnesota centers around several parks located in Lincoln County. The area sits at approximately 1,755 feet elevation with native prairie remnants interspersed with agricultural land. Summer nights can drop into the 50s°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, creating temperature swings that campers should prepare for with appropriate gear and clothing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Norwegian Creek County Park offers lakeside fishing access where campers can try for walleye and northern pike. "So beautiful to wake up to the sunrise on the lake. Perfect stop in our way...great location for kids - there are 2 parks and little 'beaches' with sand to play next to the lake," notes Shirlee A. at Norwegian Creek Co Park.
Bison viewing: Blue Mounds State Park maintains a herd of bison that visitors can observe during special tours. "Park features natural prairie and a buffalo herd. Bison tours are available. Plenty of hiking trails and some cliff climbing," shares Bruce P. who stayed at Blue Mounds State Park Campground.
River activities: Camden State Park offers opportunities for tubing and playing along the Redwood River. "Great trout stream, swimming, tubing, camping, horse trails, hiking... my kids loved it," reports Emma V. who visited Camden State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. "Bathrooms are nice and clean. There's a little free library near the restroom," writes Tori K. about her stay at Blue Mounds State Park.
Swimming areas: Local lakes and swimming ponds offer welcome relief during hot summer days. "The campground is close to the playground and swimming pond," notes Makayla B. about Camden State Park, though she adds that weather didn't cooperate during her visit.
Regional trails: The area features both paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking. "The Camden Regional trail is 14 miles of paved trails between Camden State Park and Marshall, MN," explains Kyle B. who visits Pipestone RV Campground regularly.
What you should know
Water issues: Some parks in the region have experienced water system problems. Bruce P. mentions at Blue Mounds that "Layout for getting water and dump station is a little odd as you have to drive through the campground to get to it rather than it being on your way out."
Site spacing: Several campgrounds feature sites positioned relatively close together. "Electric and water hookups. Spots are very close together," reports Lisa from Norwegian Creek County Park, adding that "Luckily several people cancelled for the weekend and we were allowed to pick any spot."
Train noise: Some campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "There are train tracks really close to the campground. The trains didn't seem long nor did they blow the horns," reports Shelly E. from Camden State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "We recently spent a long weekend in May camping here with family! This campground is a great example of what camping really is," shares Lucas P. about Lake Hendricks Park, adding that "neighbors are friendly, and it's located close to restaurants, shopping, and anything else you could need or want!"
Group camping options: The area works well for family reunions and larger gatherings. "My family does a annual family reunion camping once a year! We stayed here and it was beautiful! Perfect for all the kids off all ages, adults, grandparents...we had a really good time," says Anne G. about her Camden State Park experience.
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences for children. "The national pipestone monument area is right across the road. Really neat interactive place to visit," notes camper S G. after staying at Pipestone Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require work to get RVs properly positioned. S G. from Pipestone Family Campground mentions, "We had a pull thru spot, leveling was tricky. They let us put up a tent for no additional cost."
Hookup availability: Most county parks provide electric hookups, with some offering water and sewer connections. "Very quiet and beautiful campground. Well minus the semitrucks going down the road here and there," notes Jennifer K. about Blue Mounds, adding "Seems to be mostly electric sites. There's a dump and water fill with small clean dumpsters throughout."
Site selection: Choosing the right campsite can significantly impact your experience. "Go to the lower park, more to do, more to see. Upper camp, not much to see, plus our site was really steep," advises Lynn A. C. regarding Camden State Park's two distinct camping areas.
