Best Campgrounds near Mountain Lake, MN

Camping sites near Mountain Lake, Minnesota provide access to southern Minnesota's prairie landscape. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 1,300-1,500 feet with hot summers reaching 85°F and winter temperatures well below freezing. Campgrounds typically open from April through October, with sites at county parks often more secluded than municipal options.

What to do

Hiking trails: Mountain Lake's Island View offers a 5-mile trail circling the lake with additional recreation options. As visitor Daniel N. notes, you can enjoy "Frisbee Golf, playground, and a 5-mile trail around lake. As good as you get for a Municipal Campground."

Paddling opportunities: Sands Country Cove Campground provides lakefront access for water activities. Sarah N. describes it as a "Peaceful lakefront property with a playground, mini golf, and ice cream for kids (and parents). You drive through farm fields to get there and we were surprised when we arrived at how nice it was."

Wildlife viewing: Kilen Woods State Park Campground offers prairie, river and oak savanna habitats. According to Meg W., "Park is quiet, clean and very easy to hike. Entire park can easily be hiked in a day, with prairie, river and oak savanna views."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Cedar Hanson Co Park features spacious campsites with natural separation. Mindy B. mentions, "Large grassy sites with big trees overlooking lake. Bathroom with showers. Can hear train whistle but no cars."

Clean facilities: Island Park maintains well-kept grounds near water access. Scott D. reports, "There are 4 camping spots here, all with electric hook-up. Although the website states $10 fee, there is nowhere to pay. The campsites are right next to a creek with kayak access."

Quiet atmosphere: Sandy Point Park provides peaceful lakeside camping. Michael S. shares, "We were the only ones here on a weekday besides the host. Views of the lake through the trees at the back of the campsite. Clean bathrooms and showers. Water and electricity."

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds close from late September through April. At Kilen Woods State Park Campground, off-season visitors note limited staff presence. Chloe T. advises, "First thing to know is that you cannot pay for anything there directly... no cash, no checks, no credit cards, no tap, nothing. You need to use the Yodel app to purchase firewood."

Environmental factors: Farm odors and train noise affect some sites. At Cedar Hanson Co Park, Mindy B. notes, "Wind sometimes brings farm odors into area so sites at the end of the road may be better if you don't need elect."

Payment systems: Everett Park charges different rates based on amenities. According to clair W., "It costs $20 for a tent sight, $25 for a power hookup sight. We'll worth the stop, I almost didn't want to leave."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Voss Park City Campground offers family recreation options. Cory S. mentions, "Park is privately owned and operated but shares a park with the city. Big events during holidays. Kids love the park and lake!"

Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Sands Country Cove Campground, Sarah N. appreciated the "playground, mini golf, and ice cream for kids (and parents)."

Walk-in sites for adventure: Kilen Woods offers walk-in sites for families seeking more seclusion. Alyssa D. recommends, "Lots of RV sites but there are 4 walk in sites down a small trail, very private and away from everyone else. We chose site 4 and we definitely made the right decision!!"

Tips from RVers

Electric hookup locations: Most campgrounds offer electric-only sites with water fill stations. At Voss Park City Campground, Jennifer B. notes it "Has electric and water hook ups. Tent spots available. Nice path around lake for a walk, jog, or bike. Has Showers. Pets welcome."

Big rig access: Jackson KOA accommodates larger RVs with full hookups. Gregory L. reports, "Our site was level, easy to get into, and had a nice tree providing some shade. Water pressure was good, no issues with electric."

Dumping facilities: Check for on-site dump stations before arrival. At Jackson KOA, Gregory L. appreciated that "they had a good sewer hose at the dump station for guests to use so they didn't have to dig theirs out. That is the kind of thought the owners put into the experience at their park."