Lac qui Parle State Park and surrounding areas offer several cabin accommodations for visitors to western Minnesota. The region features prairie landscapes and numerous lakes formed by glacial activity. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer averages 80°F with moderate humidity. Cabins near Montevideo, Minnesota provide shelter during temperature extremes and protection from seasonal mosquitoes typically present from June through August.
What to do
Birdwatching during migrations: At Lac qui Parle State Park, the lake becomes a major stopover on the Red River/Minnesota River flyway. "During migration, the thousands of birds convening on the headwater lakes of these two rivers makes it sound as though the lake itself is speaking up in its own voice, hence the french furtraders name of 'Lac Qui Parle'," explains Janet R.
Paddle the waterways: The Chippewa River flows next to several camping areas near Montevideo. At Outdoors Inn Campground, visitors can enjoy water activities. "The Chippewa river flows next to the camp and the adjoining river bank is woodlands. We had no insect issues," reports one camper.
Explore the Glacial Ridge Trail: Drive north on MN-29 from Benson to experience dramatic landscape changes. "The topology change in terrain from the farm lands around Benson to the rolling hills and lakes north on MN-29 is great. Continue on MN-29 to Starbuck for a sizable lake," notes a reviewer.
What campers like
Open prairie views for stargazing: The Upper Campground at Lac qui Parle provides unobstructed sky views. "While the campground lacks privacy, its wide open skies provide wonderful stargazing on clear nights. The openness was also great for watching groups of large birds (geese, turkey vultures, pelicans) wheeling overhead," writes Deanna J.
Spacious sites with lake views: Campers appreciate the layout at Lac qui Parle. "Lots of space between sites. There are not many trees so not much shade. Sites are gravel and relatively level, not much leveling required," reports Renee H.
Clean facilities: Green Lake County Park maintains high standards for their bathrooms. "The deal sealer for me though is the bathroom/showers are clean and they have cleaners go in and clean 3 times a day," notes Jessica B.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The prairie setting exposes campers to weather elements. "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 Lac qui Parle visitor.
Bug protection: Insect activity varies seasonally. "The park and campground are nice, but the mosquitos weren't! Stayed right after a mosquitos hatch sadly," warns Tori K. from Lac qui Parle.
Cell service limitations: Pomme De Terre Campground and other rural sites have spotty coverage. "Verizon cell signal is poor," mentions a reviewer about Lac qui Parle, indicating you should download maps and information before arrival.
Limited shade: Upper campgrounds throughout the region tend to be open. "The upper campground was open and I found a level campsite for the evening. Very few trees," reports Han E.
Ranger
