Maple Lake, Minnesota offers several tent camping options within Wright County and neighboring areas. The region sits at approximately 1,030 feet elevation with a continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Peak tent camping season runs May through September, with July temperatures averaging 71°F and occasional severe thunderstorms possible.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Maria State Park's backpacking sites provide excellent wildlife observation points. "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," notes Steph H., highlighting the park's abundant insect life during summer months.
Birding excursions: Lake Rebecca Park Reserve offers excellent bird watching trails near Maple Lake. "Big park! Great for birding and walking trails! One of my favorite places to go near home," writes reviewer Alison O., who frequents the park specifically for this activity.
Kayaking and paddling: The Mississippi River and connected waterways provide paddling routes accessible from several watercraft campsites. LaMina H. mentions that Oak Island Watercraft Campsite "is a great spot to take a rest while cavorting the Mississippi" with its "picnic table and a very primitive toilet."
Horseback riding trails: For equestrians camping near Maple Lake, dedicated horse trails provide additional recreation. "This is my all-time favorite park to bring my horse to, and it's her favorite trail too," states Krista T. about Crow Hassan Park Reserve's extensive trail system.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Lake Maria backpacking sites offer exceptional privacy compared to standard campgrounds. A camper notes: "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes. Some are lake front and some are more woodsy sites."
Private latrines: Many backpacking sites in the region include dedicated toilet facilities. At Lake Maria State Park, site B6 is described as having "Vault toilets and water access aren't too far, especially by backcountry standards" according to Alison O.'s detailed review.
Lake access: Waterfront sites provide swimming and fishing opportunities. As Lydia N. describes one Lake Maria site: "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."
Hammock-friendly trees: Several campsites feature ideal tree spacing for hammock camping. Brian C. notes about his Lake Maria site: "There are two trees perfectly spaced for a hammock" - a specific feature many tent campers seek when selecting sites.
What you should know
Bug preparation is essential: Summer months bring significant insect activity to the Maple Lake area. "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," warns Steph H. about her Lake Maria visit.
Pack-in/pack-out requirements: Most backpacking sites require carrying all supplies. One camper at Crow Hassan Park Reserve mentions: "The vault toilet near the barn is nice, there are no showers," indicating limited facilities requiring proper preparation.
Hike-in distances vary: Tent sites range from short walks to longer treks. Cheeming Y. warns about Lake Maria: "If you're new to hiking, I suggest doing some research if you're going to attempt stuff like this... Buddy and I parked at the southeast parking lot so the hike was about a mile and also hilly."
Water access limitations: Drinking water availability varies by location. Several campsites have pumps, but as Brian C. notes: "First: my only complaint... The pump for the water was very slow" - suggesting campers should bring adequate water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several parks near Maple Lake offer swimming areas. Daniel R. says Lake Rebecca Park Reserve "has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
Playground facilities: Some parks include play equipment for children. As Joe S. mentions about A.J. Acres Campground: "Best playground is at the top of the hill from office" - providing entertainment options for younger campers.
Rental equipment available: Several locations offer boat and equipment rentals. Joe S. notes: "You can also rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee" at A.J. Acres, providing recreation options without bringing your own gear.
Short hike-in options: For families new to backpacking, choose sites with shorter approaches. One Lake Maria camper recommends: "Backpack sites only. Love this park as it offers many backpacking sites with some being very short hikes in and some being longer hikes."
Tips from RVers
Tree navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight spacing between trees. Nettie W. cautions about A.J. Acres Campground: "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees."
Limited sewer hookups: Full-service sites can be limited. "Limited availability to sewer hookups, only about 5 true pull thrus, taken by seasonal," notes Nettie W. about A.J. Acres, suggesting early reservations for those needing full hookups.
Seasonal occupancy: Many RV parks near Maple Lake have high percentages of seasonal campers. "A drive around showed many seasonal, if not permanent, trailers and campers," according to Nettie W., indicating fewer sites available for short-term stays.
