Tent camping near Melrose, Minnesota offers secluded sites within a landscape dominated by lakes, wetlands, and mixed hardwood forests. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level in the central Minnesota transition zone between prairie and northern forest ecosystems. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions with less precipitation and insect activity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Maria State Park provides excellent fishing access with multiple ponds and lakes. "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," notes reviewer Tori K. about Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Water recreation: A.J. Acres Campground offers rental equipment for water activities. "You can also rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards for a small fee," mentions Joe S. in their review of A J Acres Campground. The beach area provides swimming access, though campers should "be careful so you don't get hit" by watercraft sharing the same area.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing year-round. "We saw pileated woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a chorus of chorus frogs. Nature feels close here — in the best way," writes Alison O. about their experience at Lake Maria State Park. Bring binoculars for better viewing, especially during early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Tent campers appreciate the privacy found at many sites. "Only about a mile from the parking lot. 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 Lydia N. about Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Mississippi River County Park maintains well-kept amenities for various camper types. "Group camp: Mississippi River County Park offers group camping for bona fide youth groups and educational groups. There is no charge but reservations are required," explains Tori K. about Mississippi River County Park.
Lake access: Many campers value direct water access. "Very clean lake, peaceful," notes Ron W. about Old Wagon Camp Ground. Linwood Resort provides extensive water-focused amenities including "sunbathing dock on the water, large picnic grounds, sand-filled playground, paddleboard & kayak rentals, boat ramp and launching service, boat & pontoon rental."
What you should know
Pack strategically: Hike-in sites require thoughtful packing. "If you're new to hiking, I suggest doing some research if you're going to attempt stuff like this. I camped here back in 2020 of November. Overpacked, along with not packing the right gear and didn't have a cart," warns cheeming Y. about their experience at Lake Maria State Park Campground.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential during warm months. "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," describes Steph H. about summer camping at Lake Maria. Pack permethrin-treated clothing and quality repellent.
Water access limitations: Water sources may require planning. "The pump for the water was very slow," notes Brian C. about Lake Maria. Bring containers for transporting water from central pumps to your campsite, especially at hike-in locations.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: Choose sites with easier access for young children. "We had a great time camping here with the family!" shares Anne G. about Lake Maria State Park Campground. Sites closer to parking areas reduce hiking distance while still providing seclusion.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Linwood Resort features a "sand-filled playground" and "sand volleyball" according to Tori K., while Cozy Corners has "a park, baseball field, lodge, fish cleaning building, indoor pool, bathhouses, and laundry center," as described by the same reviewer at Cozy Corners.
Off-season visits: Consider shoulder season camping to avoid peak bugs and crowds. "I would like to come back to this park in late fall and try out a camper cabin," mentions Steph H. about Lake Maria, highlighting the appeal of camping outside summer months.
Tips from RVers
Tree navigation: Be prepared for tight spaces in wooded campgrounds. "Navigating around trees was not so fun with our 5th wheel. We got the slideouts to fit in between the trees," explains Nettie W. about A J Acres Campground. Measure your RV dimensions and confirm site compatibility before booking.
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds have limited transient RV spots. "There aren't many campsites that you're able to reserve. The majority of the campsites are seasonal campsites," notes Joe S. about A.J. Acres. Book well in advance for weekend stays during summer months.
Local amenities: RVers can access services in nearby towns. "The nearby town of Osakis has convenience stores, grocery, liquor stores, gas, bars and restaurants, etc.," mentions Tori K. about the area near Linwood Resort, providing options for resupplying during extended stays.
