Dispersed camping options near Mountain Lake, Minnesota span multiple counties with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet. The region experiences a continental climate with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that can dip below 0°F. Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations from May through September due to Minnesota's climate constraints.
What to do
Hiking trails and bird watching: At Lake Shetek State Park, visitors can explore roughly 4 miles of hiking trails including the popular Loon Island Trail. "We especially enjoyed the Loon Island loop, which is accessed by a causeway across the lake. There is an observation deck with a viewing telescope at Eastlick Marsh, which is where we saw the nesting swan and a beaver dam," notes Deanna J., who visited in May 2022.
Water recreation on multiple lakes: Local lakes provide various water activities within short drives of Mountain Lake. Perch Lake offers fishing opportunities 25 miles northeast of Mountain Lake. "At&t service. $22 with electricity. $12 w/o," reports Larry K., mentioning the practical amenities at Perch Lake Park.
Historical exploration: The region features significant historical sites near glamping accommodations. "The MN State Historical Society could do a much better job at EDUCATING what really happened at the Fort and why. The signage is in need of repair and restoration. Make sure to read up about the fort before arriving so that you can appreciate the importance of the site you're camping on," advises Tom from Fort Ridgely State Park.
What campers like
Lake access for kayaking and swimming: Many travelers appreciate the water access at campgrounds in the area. At Flying Goose Campground, visitors enjoy direct lake access. "What a beautiful, clean campground right on a gorgeous lake!! I really enjoyed my short stay here - the owner met me at the office when I called him," writes Gypsy G., who found the campground to be "literally right off I-90."
Spacious campsites: Many cart-in sites provide more privacy than standard sites. "Our campsite (3) was spacious with a tent pad large enough to hold 2 tents and had a spot for a hammock. It had a fire ring and picnic table," notes Joanna B. about Lake Shetek State Park, though she mentions that "due to all the boat traffic, I would say this is a much less private and serene state park."
Clean facilities: Travelers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at campgrounds near Mountain Lake. "Nice clean and quiet. Super friendly staff," notes Victoria G. about Jackson KOA. The cleanliness extends to shower facilities at many campgrounds, with most offering hot showers at no additional cost.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping options near Mountain Lake operate on a limited seasonal schedule. Fort Ridgely State Park Campground runs "April 1 to MEA weekend," which typically falls in mid-October. This seasonal operation applies to most campgrounds in the region.
Variable privacy levels: Sites at many campgrounds offer limited privacy. At Oak Woods Campground, "Sites are well marked and they are all in close proximity to one another. There are little to no natural features that divide each site from the next. When this campground is full you have zero privacy," reports Stephanie G.
Reservation options: While some campgrounds accept advance reservations, others operate on first-come, first-served basis. According to Jeff J., "This campground is first-come-first-serve" at Everett Park, despite appearing in reservable campsite searches.
Varying amenities: Facilities differ widely between campgrounds. Some offer full hookups, while others provide only basic amenities. "The non electric sites are very wooded and private. The electric sites are very open and offer little privacy," notes Liz H., explaining the typical layout differences at local campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and swimming areas: Many campgrounds provide dedicated children's recreation areas. "There is a play park and other sporting area. Lake to swim in - no lifeguard offered," reports Tracy B. about Flying Goose Campground. Families should note that swimming areas typically don't have lifeguards on duty.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer wildlife spotting opportunities for children. "We saw and heard many birds including songbirds, woodpeckers, geese, turkeys, pelicans, turkey vultures, and a nesting swan. We saw deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a mink. We heard coyotes the first night," shares Deanna J.
Winter camping options: For families seeking year-round glamping near Mountain Lake, some parks offer camper cabins in winter. "We stayed in a Camper Cabin in this park in the wintertime. It was a great experience for our kids and a fun winter camping experience for mom and dad. The camper cabin was nice and warm and we even cooked our dinner over a fire at night," writes Jen A.
Tips from RVers
Campground layout considerations: RV campers should research site arrangements before booking. At Everett Park, "Sites are large and well spaced," according to A & D S., who also noted its amenities include a "Water fill station, 30A power, washroom & shower if needed."
Connection options: Electric hookups are standard at most campgrounds, but full hookups are less common. "Full hook up, quiet, clean," reports Rachel H. about Island View Campground, highlighting the available connections.
Site size variation: Big rig compatibility varies between campgrounds. For larger vehicles, sites at Flying Goose Campground work well according to Chris S.: "The pull through sites have electric, water and sewage at every site."
