Best Campgrounds near Lake Benton, MN

Camping near Lake Benton, Minnesota includes several county parks and established campgrounds set amid prairie landscapes and agricultural surroundings. Hole in the Mountain County Park and Norwegian Creek County Park provide the closest camping options to Lake Benton itself, while Horse Hill County Park offers additional facilities within the immediate area. These campgrounds sit in southwestern Minnesota's rolling terrain, approximately 30 minutes from the South Dakota border and about 2 hours from Sioux Falls. The region features a mix of grasslands, farmland, and small lakes typical of this part of Minnesota.

Most campgrounds in the Lake Benton area operate seasonally, with primary camping season running from mid-May through early October. Hole in the Mountain County Park specifically operates from May 15 to October 1. Winter conditions can be harsh with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing, making off-season camping impractical. Summer brings warm days with temperatures typically in the 70s and 80s°F, though occasional heat waves can push temperatures higher. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with some campgrounds even offering WiFi. Campers should note that water systems at some parks may be shut off during shoulder seasons.

The camping facilities around Lake Benton accommodate both tent and RV campers, with most county parks providing electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations. Many sites are drive-in accessible with gravel pads and grassy areas for setting up equipment. According to visitors to nearby state parks in the region, "sites are well marked but in close proximity to one another with little to no natural features dividing each site from the next." Facilities typically include showers, toilets, and picnic tables, though amenities vary by location. Lake Hendricks Park, located about 20 miles northwest of Lake Benton, offers year-round camping with similar amenities and has received positive reviews for its lakeside setting.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Benton, Minnesota (59)

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Recent Reviews near Lake Benton, MN

225 Reviews of 59 Lake Benton Campgrounds



Guide to Lake Benton

Camping near Lake Benton, Minnesota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hiking trails at Blue Mounds State Park Campground, noting, "We went on a couple trails and just enjoyed the beautiful fall colors." The park is also home to bison, adding a unique touch to your nature walks.

  • Fishing and Water Activities: Lake Shetek State Park is a great spot for fishing. One visitor mentioned, "Good fishing. Stock up on groceries as large grocery stores are approximately 40 minutes away." This makes it a perfect place to relax by the water and try your luck at catching dinner.

  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. A camper at Oak Woods Campground shared, "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, and a nesting swan." Keep your eyes peeled for deer and other animals too!

What campers like

  • Spacious Campsites: Many campers appreciate the large, well-spaced sites. One review for Lac qui Parle Upper Campground noted, "Lots of space between sites," which is great for privacy.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Palisades State Park Campground remarked, "Bathrooms exceptionally clean. Showers great." This makes for a more comfortable camping experience.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of park staff. One camper at Big Sioux Recreation Area said, "The ranger at the station was super friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. For instance, Split Rock Park has no showers or toilets, just outhouses. A visitor noted, "There are no showers or toilets, just outhouses."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the warmer months. A camper at Lac qui Parle State Park mentioned, "The mosquitos weren't! Stayed right after a mosquito hatch sadly."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A camper at Sioux Falls KOA said, "Lots of noise since it’s off the highway." If you're looking for peace and quiet, check the location before booking.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is noted for its "lots of activities to keep them entertained."
  • Plan for Outdoor Fun: Bring along games and outdoor toys. One family at Sunrise Campground enjoyed "fishing, swimming, and biking along all the great routes."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on younger kids near water and cliffs. A camper at Split Rock Park advised, "There are cliffs and water, so plan accordingly."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Palisades State Park mentioned, "Totally new entrance with easy access to new section that will handle larger RVs."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. One visitor at Big Sioux Recreation Area appreciated the "level spots with electric."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're near highways or train tracks, be ready for some noise. A camper at Sioux Falls KOA noted, "It was clean, but the noise was a downside."

Camping near Lake Benton, Minnesota, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Lake Benton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake Benton, MN is Hole in the Mountain County Park with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What parks are near Lake Benton, MN?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 0 parks near Lake Benton, MN that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.