Tent camping near Medicine Lake, Minnesota offers wooded and prairie options within easy reach of the Twin Cities metro area. Located at approximately 880 feet elevation, this region experiences warm summers with average highs of 83°F in July and brief but intense mosquito seasons from late May through August. Most tent sites require a quarter-mile to one-mile hike from parking areas, with varying terrain difficulties depending on the season.
What to do
Hiking trails with wildlife viewing: Lake Maria State Park Campground has multiple trail options where campers commonly spot pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and chorus frogs. One visitor noted, "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way."
Water activities beyond swimming: William O'Brien State Park Campground offers river access for fishing and wildlife watching. A camper mentioned, "There are two water access points- one for Lake Rebecca and one for the nearby Crow River. There are also boat rentals available."
Outdoor skills practice: Many camping areas serve as training grounds for backpacking skills with variable terrain. At Lake Maria State Park Campground, a reviewer warned, "I camped here back in 2020 of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart. Buddy and I parked at the southeast parking lot so the hike was about a mile and also hilly."
What campers like
Secluded sites despite proximity: The walk-in sites at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park Campground provide a sense of isolation while remaining accessible. A camper reported, "The walk in site was great - close to parking with plenty of tree shade."
Seasonal color displays: Fall camping offers special visual appeal in the region. According to one review, "This is a great campground for Fall camping. The color's are amazing. Nice hiking trails."
Balance of primitive and basic amenities: Crow Hassan Park Reserve maintains simple but functional facilities. A visitor explained, "The vault toilet near the barn is nice, there are no showers. Be aware that the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time."
What you should know
Bug preparedness is essential: The region's wetland areas create intense insect pressure during warmer months. A William O'Brien State Park camper warned, "We had a battle with mosquitoes. We went through a lot of bug spray and coils. Deer flies were thick around the water filling station."
Firewood logistics vary by site: Some campgrounds require campers to cut their own wood on site. An experienced camper at Afton State Park Campground noted, "They do have firewood available however it is long slab wood, so you do need to cut it yourself. Hand hacksaws are provided, but we're not great quality which made cutting the wood difficult."
Water access reliability: Water sources might be inconsistent depending on season and maintenance. One visitor cautioned, "The pump for the water was very slow," while another specifically warned, "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds feature specially designed play areas. One parent at Lake Rebecca Park Reserve shared, "This has an amazing beach. Great Trails. Sweet single track for mountain biking. The best kids park at any campground I've been to."
Wildlife encounters as education: Many sites offer opportunities to observe local animals safely. A camper recounted, "You can hear frogs all night and we even saw a turtle laying eggs in a different campsite."
Camper cabins for easing into tent camping: For families new to camping, several parks offer intermediate options. A visitor explained, "Perfect little cabin nestled in the southern half of the park! Screened in porch, heated with electricity, and two double bunk beds!"
Tips from RVers
Access challenges for larger vehicles: Narrow access roads can create difficulties. At Crow Hassan Park Reserve, a reviewer cautioned, "Be aware that the road into this group site only is wide enough for one vehicle at a time, so far I've been lucky to not encounter another vehicle as I'm entering or leaving."
Site selection for privacy: RV campers seeking separation should choose carefully. One experienced camper advised, "Sites are very close in there and were small," while another recommended, "If you're not picky about which site you get, you can usually find one without too much hassle."
