Camping options near Maple Lake, Minnesota center around several lakes and state parks within a 30-mile radius. Located in Wright County at 996 feet elevation, the area experiences warm summers with average highs of 83°F in July and cold winters with January lows averaging 4°F. The region contains over 20 lakes within a 15-mile radius, making water activities particularly accessible during the May to September camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Lake Maria State Park features backpacking sites that require a short hike from the parking area. One camper notes, "We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness." The park has trails ranging from easy 0.5-mile loops to more challenging 6-mile routes.
Swimming at multiple beaches: At Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground, you'll find swimming areas with amenities like changing facilities and picnic tables. "This place had awesome trails and so many deer! It's like they were camping with us," reports one visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Crow Hassan Park Reserve offers excellent birdwatching along the Crow River. A visitor mentioned, "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails!" The reserve has over 600 acres of restored prairie habitat.
Winter camping options: For cold-weather enthusiasts, some campgrounds remain open year-round. At Lake Maria State Park, campers can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on 14 miles of trails. One backpacker shared, "BP7 didn't have much dead wood around so we had to reserve the firewood we purchased."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Lake Maria State Park Campground receives praise for its privacy. A camper noted, "The site is private, quiet, and wonderfully shaded, with just enough open sky for stargazing by the fire." Another mentioned, "First: my only complaint... The pump for the water was very slow. This lovely spot is a one mile hike from the parking lot, so be ready to walk if you need to make more than one trip."
Family-friendly amenities: Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve offers paved biking trails around several lakes. A visitor shared, "We love to camp here. Access to lake independence. A lot of biking trails. Nice clean bathrooms. Nice park for kids just a small hike away." Sites include fire rings and picnic tables.
Glamping facilities: For luxury camping near Maple Lake, Minnesota, St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park offers yurts and upscale accommodations. A reviewer described it as "Absolutely beautiful campground with mature trees. Cedars, white oaks, hickory's and more. The birds are singing and so are the kids because this place has so much to do for them."
Clean restroom facilities: Most campgrounds in the area maintain well-serviced bathroom facilities. At Baker Campground, one camper noted, "Bathroom/showers are great. With great fishing, playground, swimming, and biking trails very nearby, the kids were kept as busy as they wanted to be."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Maple Lake require advance booking. At Lake Maria State Park, backpacking sites must be reserved and campers note, "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes."
Bug seasons and preparation: Summer months can bring heavy mosquito and black fly activity. One camper at Lake Maria warned, "First step onto the grassy trail exploded in a cloud of mosquitos. Walking along the kids all looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts."
Firewood regulations: Most parks require purchasing firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species. A Baker Park visitor mentioned, "It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground."
Site access considerations: At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, which offers glamping accommodations near Maple Lake, visitors should note: "The sites are well maintained. The staff is very kind and accommodating. There are a few restaurants around that deliver. Great spot."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with playgrounds: Baker Park Reserve offers excellent facilities for children. A camper shared, "We spent a weekend with a group of friends (all families with young kids). It was the perfect place to easily get in, set up, hangout, and just relax."
Plan for tent locations: At Three Rivers Park District Baker Campground, sites are spacious with good tent placement options. A visitor noted, "Met a friend for a relaxing weekend in loop C. Quiet, lots of trees, nice fire rings. Bathrooms were close and well kept."
Consider first-time camper sites: For families new to camping, some locations offer beginner-friendly experiences. As one family reported after their first camping trip at Baker Park, "For our first time camping, this was a great site! It was very clean, had friendly staff, and was close to a really fun park for our kids."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing awareness: At Minneapolis Northwest KOA, RVers note mixed experiences with site size. One camper observed, "Sites are close to each other, but easy access, clean grounds and facilities, friendly staff, and a K9 fenced area for a pet friendly campground."
Reservations for premium sites: RVers seeking sites with shade should specify preferences when booking. A Minneapolis Northwest KOA visitor advised, "Be sure to call the office ahead and let them know that you want a site with trees and not one backing up to the road."
Hookup availability: Check for full-service sites when booking glamping options near Maple Lake. At Cokato Lake RV Resort, a visitor described, "RV resort and some lot rentals, Heated pool, lake with beach, boat launch area just block away, tennis/pickle ball, mini golf, resort store with ice cream."
