Lake Maria State Park and nearby campgrounds near Maple Lake, Minnesota provide camping opportunities year-round with variable terrain elevations ranging from 950 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The region features a mix of hardwood forests, wetlands, and glacial topography with over 15 lakes within a 10-mile radius. Winter temperatures average 15°F while summer months typically reach 80-85°F with higher humidity.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Maria State Park features numerous wildlife viewing spots along trails and near campsites. "I really enjoy sites 1, 2, and 3 as they are a little more secluded from other sites, however 1 is fairly close to the county road so you will hear some vehicle noise overnight," notes a camper at Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Swimming and water recreation: The beach at Schroeder County Park offers excellent swimming access. "The lake is nice. There are 2 swimming beaches: 1 for the campground and one for all of the day visitors. You can rent canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards, and many people bring their own boats," explains a visitor.
Family activities at RV parks: Many local campgrounds offer structured activities for families. "This is a nice family campground. It has a 9 hole mini golf, shuffleboard, salt water pool, and a lobby/gift shop. They also offer a nice seating area for those hot or raining days with free arcade," reports a camper at St. Cloud-Clearwater RV Park.
Hiking trail exploration: The Sand Dunes State Forest area provides numerous hiking opportunities in a more remote setting. A visitor notes, "I love that it's so close to home. I was able to walk in and find an incredible spot to camp and lay in my hammock" at the dispersed camping areas south of the forest.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of certain sites. "This site was nearly surrounded by a lake which lended to a lot of bugs, but was absolutely gorgeous! We could see one other camper in a different site, but it still felt like you were in the wilderness," shares a visitor about Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park Campground.
Diverse site options: Sites range from heavily wooded to open meadows. "Spacious peaceful campsites in a wooded area near lake Ann. No elect or showers. Vault toilets," mentions a camper at Ann Lake, highlighting the rustic options available.
Seasonal variety: Different seasons offer unique camping experiences. "I visit here often, great walking trails and wildlife," notes a regular visitor to Lake Maria State Park, where spring and fall offer optimal conditions.
Water access: Most campgrounds provide some form of water access. "The beach front is long and beautiful, lots of room to roam," describes a Schroeder County Park visitor, emphasizing the generous space available for waterfront activities.
What you should know
Bug conditions: Insect activity varies by season and location. "When we pulled up to the parking lot we knew we were in trouble. The black flies were dive bombing the car like a scene from Armageddon," reports a summer visitor to Lake Maria State Park, indicating the severe bug situation during peak season.
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds require various levels of hiking to reach sites. "BP7 didn't have much dead wood around so we had to reserve the firewood we purchased. Carrying firewood, food, water, gear, on a hilly trail through the woods can become real tough real fast for anyone that isn't physically active," warns a camper at Lake Maria.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. At South of Sand Dunes State Forest, a camper mentions, "Bring a journal and some good company—your phone's chances are slim. Recent check-ins confirm unreliable cell coverage, even for Verizon."
Pet policies: Most campgrounds near Maple Lake are pet-friendly but require leashes. "This campground is great, and in a beautiful area. However there is a ton of trash throughout the forest. Also a large amount of poison ivy," warns a visitor about Ann Lake, pointing out potential hazards for pets.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose sites with minimal hiking requirements for young children. "We spent two nights in the campground. It was fairly busy, but we still felt secluded despite a full campground. There are nice paved trails around a couple of lakes/ponds for biking," mentions a family at Baker Campground - Baker Park Reserve.
Family-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer special facilities for children. "We went 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. The sites are fairly large, but very open," shares a Baker Park Reserve visitor.
Activity planning: Schedule activities around bug conditions and weather. "Appreciated the camper cabin and the clean sites. Most if not all sites are in the woods from what I could tell so there is a lot of leaves. Good trails and a fun experience," notes a Lake Maria State Park camper.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide an easier entry point. "They also have little cabins to stay in that I'd like to try out!" mentions a visitor to Lake Maria State Park, highlighting alternatives to tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "Most spots are large with varying degrees of privacy. Well spaced out, just some have less undergrowth," shares an RV camper at Ann Lake.
Hookup availability: Hookup options vary significantly between campgrounds. "Really nice campground! Meadow setting where the campsites are, but then TONS of hiking trails with significant trees & shade. Really beautiful," reports an RVer at Bertram Chain of Lakes, which offers full hookup sites.
Seasonal pricing: Some campgrounds have significant price variations. "Just passing through, great lake location but $80 was kind of high," notes a visitor about Codgers Cover RV Resort, indicating the premium rates for lakeside RV camping.
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges depending on your rig. "30' class C motor home. Some overhanging branches on the road in scrape the top and sides. Campsites are nice, mowed, gravel parking," advises an RVer about Ann Lake, providing specific size context.
