Baker Campground offers tent pads, electric hookups, and wooded sites just 20 miles west of Medicine Lake. Sites near the northern edge provide more seclusion while remaining close to trails and water access. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 900-1000 feet, with terrain featuring a mix of prairie and oak woodland typical of Minnesota's central lakes region. Campers should plan for seasonal mosquito activity, particularly during June and July evenings.
What to do
Trail running and birding: The extensive trail system at Crow Hassan Park Reserve provides 20+ miles of trails through restored prairie habitat. "I never tire walking the dog park circle along the crow river! Great for birding and tons of beautiful trails," notes one visitor. The sandy prairie sections offer relief from bugs while wooded sections provide shade.
Kayaking and canoeing: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers direct water access from select campsites. Site 13 sits right on the water's edge with "HUGE [space] with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery." The lake is "a good size and a kayaker's delight" with rental equipment available seasonally.
Disc golf access: Several campgrounds provide access to disc golf courses. "Close to a top 10 disc golf course if that's your thing," mentions one reviewer about Bunker Hills Regional Park. The park features a professional-level 18-hole course with varied terrain challenges about 30 minutes from Medicine Lake.
What campers like
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Medicine Lake, Minnesota provides an alternative to traditional tents. Afton State Park offers yurts that are "perfect for family camping, especially in Fall, Winter and Spring." These structures include wood stoves and basic furnishings, making them usable year-round unlike tent camping.
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained restrooms and shower buildings. "The bathroom/showers are great," notes one camper at Baker Park. Another adds that Bunker Hills facilities are "relatively modern" compared to more rustic options, with "nice, clean shower buildings."
Proximity to Twin Cities: Locations like Rice Creek Chain of Lakes provide quick access to urban amenities while feeling removed. "Feels very secluded in spite of being so close to the cities," states one review. This accessibility means campers can make shorter trips without extensive travel time from Minneapolis.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Medicine Lake require advance booking, particularly for yurts and specialty accommodations. Weekends in summer months often fill 2-3 months ahead. One camper notes, "I made a reservation over 3 months before my stay" at Minneapolis Northwest KOA.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campsite layouts differ dramatically between parks and even within the same campground. "The sites are stacked on top of each other," reports a KOA visitor, while others mention "our 'hike in' spot was very close to the car but hidden in a forest" at Cleary Lake. Research specific site numbers before booking.
Entry fees separate from camping fees: Most regional parks charge daily vehicle entry fees ($6-7) in addition to camping reservation costs. "Your reservation fee does NOT include the daily parks fee of 7 dollars just FYI," warns a Bunker Hills camper. Annual passes offer better value for frequent visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lake Auburn Campground features a "nice, well-maintained campground good for drive-in camping and RVs" with "a nice beach for the kids." The swimming area has "gentle sloping and smooth" shorelines ideal for younger swimmers.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. "Great playground and green space for the kids," notes one Lake Auburn review. Another family mentioned Baker Park had "a really fun park for our kids."
Bug preparation: Minnesota's lakes region produces significant mosquito activity in summer months. "The bugs are aggressive here, especially near the tent sites which are located near a swampy area," warns a KOA visitor. Bring extra repellent for evening activities, especially for kids.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are widely available, but full hookups are limited. At Bunker Hills, "Water fill stations [are] readily available so we loaded up prior to continuing out west." Most parks offer electric service but fewer have sewer connections at individual sites.
Site leveling challenges: Many regional parks have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. "The sites at Baker Park Reserve are larger than average" but some have slopes that require adjustment for comfortable RV placement.
Dump station access: Sanitary dump stations are typically centralized rather than at individual sites. Rice Creek Chain of Lakes and Baker Park both offer dump stations, though they may have limited hours or seasonal availability depending on water system status.
