Campsites near Montevideo, Minnesota typically sit at elevations between 900-1,100 feet in the Minnesota River Valley. The region receives approximately 25-30 inches of annual precipitation, creating seasonal variations in ground conditions. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from May through October, with many county parks offering more basic amenities than state facilities but often providing greater seclusion.
What to do
Disc golf access: Lagoon Park in Montevideo offers electric hookups alongside its disc golf course. "Stayed one night, tent only, but water and electric hookups present, along with firepit and picnic table. Reservations have to be made in person, but can be done after hours, picked up at the Police Station box, $20," notes a camper at Lagoon Park.
River paddling: The Minnesota River provides multiple access points for canoes and kayaks near several campgrounds. Wegdahl Park offers direct river access for paddlers. "There is a water access to the mn River. They have cabins that I've never stayed in but look nice," states one visitor to Wegdahl Park.
Bird watching trails: The region's location along a major migratory flyway creates exceptional bird watching opportunities, particularly during spring and fall migrations. "Lots of shaded trails at the lower campground. Upper campground is very open and offers little to no shade, but beautiful views of the lake. The lake is gorgeous," explains a visitor at Lac qui Parle State Park.
What campers like
Prairie stargazing: The open landscape at many sites provides unobstructed night sky viewing. "This is a prairie setting, essentially a very large grassy field without trees or shrubs to provide privacy from neighbors or protection from winds. While the campground lacks privacy, its wide open skies provide wonderful stargazing on clear nights," shares a visitor at Lac qui Parle Upper Campground.
Varied site options: Some parks offer diversity in terrain and privacy levels. "The last 2 sites around the corner are very private," notes a camper at Memorial Park in Granite Falls, adding that "The campground is shady, quiet, and clean. The bathroom is remodeled and was very clean."
Clean facilities: Many campers mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities as standout features. "Very nice pull through cement pads. Easy full hook up's, and quite. Very clean and up to date facilities. Will stay again," remarks a visitor at Prairie View RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito challenges: Insect activity can be intense during certain periods. "The park and campground are nice, but the mosquitos weren't! Stayed right after a mosquitos hatch sadly," warns a camper at Lac qui Parle State Park.
Wind exposure: Many sites lack tree cover, resulting in consistent wind exposure. "This is a prairie setting, essentially a very large grassy field without trees or shrubs to provide privacy from neighbors or protection from winds," explains a camper at Lac qui Parle Upper Campground.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly across the region's campgrounds. "Verizon cell signal is poor," notes one camper at Lac qui Parle Upper Campground, while another visitor at Timm County Park mentions, "Very plesant on site hosts. Very welcoming. Can get full from time to time but fun people."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds provide water recreation for children. "RV park and some tent sites located next to the public pool and softball field. Amenities are good," shares a visitor at Dawson City Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Memorial Park in Granite Falls has "a new pavilion and playground with a small Zipline," according to a recent visitor.
Tree cover considerations: When camping with children, site selection impacts sun exposure. "Upper campground is very open and I found a level campsite for the evening. Very few trees," notes a camper at Lac qui Parle State Park, which could mean limited shade during hot summer days.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Water and electricity at most sites. I think there is a dump station (we were in a tent)," mentions a visitor at Timm County Park.
Level sites: Several campgrounds offer relatively level parking for RVs without extensive setup. "Sites are gravel and relatively level, not much leveling required. Variety of sites, from group camping, primitive (no hookups), electric only, full hookups (water, electric, sewer) as well as cabins and tent only areas," explains a visitor at Lac qui Parle County Park.
Road access: Some parks accommodate larger rigs better than others. "Hard surface parking with grass surround and gravel picnic table area. Newer power 30 and 50 amp. Good att cell signal but no satellite view in most sites. Current RV rate is $22. Fairly level sites," reports an RVer at Memorial Park in Granite Falls.
