Tent campsites near Osakis, Minnesota sit in the transition zone between prairie and deciduous forest at approximately 1,350 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with July and August temperatures averaging 80°F during the day and 60°F at night. The region's glacial topography creates numerous lakes and rolling hills, making the terrain around campsites variable but generally manageable.
What to do
Fishing on Lake Osakis: The 6,300-acre lake offers productive fishing throughout the season. As one camper at Linwood Resort & Campgrounds notes, "Lake osakis is usually pretty good for fishing. The nearby town of Osakis has convenience stores, grocery, liquor stores, gas, bars and restaurants, etc."
Non-motorized water activities: Several camping areas offer paddling experiences on quieter waters. At Glendalough State Park Campground, "Only Tents Allowed--this is the most serene place! They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in," writes one visitor.
Hiking local trails: The area features both paved and natural surface trails suitable for day hikes. A camper at Glendalough mentions, "Went on the hiking club trail around Annie Battle Lake, most of it is even paved for biking or groomed for skiing."
What campers like
Cart-in camping experience: Many campers appreciate sites that require minimal hauling but provide increased privacy. A Glendalough State Park visitor explains, "All sites (except one handicapped site) are tent only and cart-in sites. That being said, the trip from the (assigned) parking spot to your site is very short and very flat."
Proximity to water: Tent sites positioned near lakes receive consistently positive feedback. At Swan Lake Resort & Campground, visitors enjoy "the sandy beach and wooded trails" with one camper noting their cabin was "very clean and comfortable" while "overlooking the lake."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. As one Glendalough camper reports, "We saw many deer, caught many pan fish and observed an eagle in it's nest... We can't wait to go back."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer weekends. The canoe-in site at Crow Wing State Park operates differently: "You can call the park headquarters to ascertain availability or notify them of your ETA, but they say availability is never a problem. You do need to stop by the park office once you arrive, however, to let them know you are in the site and to pay the camping fee which is $22."
Water access variations: Water availability differs significantly between campgrounds. Crow Wing's canoe site requires planning: "You may have to walk for water (there is a pump located at the adjacent group campsite, but it is not always operational) or to make use of facilities elsewhere in the park."
Seasonal limitations: Most tent camping options in the area close by mid-October. The tent sites at Elk Lake Campground are "a short walk to the lakeshore" and offer "level grassy sites," but facilities may be limited in the shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with built-in activities: Sites with multiple recreation options reduce the need for travel with children. A visitor to Swan Lake Resort & Campground shared, "Super easy setup for our camper and tons of activities to do as a family! A little cold for us to try out the water amenities but we'll be back next year!"
Consider yurts for first-time campers: Several parks offer alternative accommodations that provide more shelter. One camper explains, "My friend & I stayed in their Osprey yurt, and it was perfect for our first camping trip together. I recommend yurts if you're not 100% comfortable with/enjoy staying in a tent."
Check noise levels and quiet hours: Family-oriented campgrounds tend to quiet down earlier. A Glendalough visitor observed, "The loop of campsites are in a grove of hardwood trees that offered great shade and a contrast to the surrounding prairies. The campsites were filled with families and things were very quiet by 9 pm each night."
Tips from RVers
Site layout and access: Many campgrounds near Osakis separate tent and RV areas. At Elk Lake Campground, "Most or perhaps all full hookup sites have seasonal RVs but there are a few overnight sites that generally have electric only (30A). Water is available did not see a dedicated dump station."
Hookup availability: Electric connections vary by campground. Elk Lake Campground provides 30-amp service at most overnight sites, while other campgrounds may offer more limited options or full hookups depending on the section.
Spacing between sites: RV sites in the region tend to be more densely arranged than tent areas. At Swan Lake Resort & Campground, "Spaces are wooded and farther apart than most campgrounds," making it preferable for those seeking more privacy between rigs.
