RV sites near Staples, Minnesota accommodate campers in the heart of central Minnesota's lake country, where the terrain consists primarily of rolling hills, forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures around 80°F from June through August, making it peak camping season, while some RV parks remain open through October when fall colors emerge. Most campgrounds in the area feature gravel pads with full hookups, though concrete pads are available at select locations like RV Resort Village.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Birch Bay RV Resort provides access to a small lake with gorgeous sunsets and includes free kayak and paddleboard use. According to Mary F., "Cute little lake with gorgeous sunsets, huge kiddy play area on water, free kayak and paddle board use... Also have 3 docs and a small boat landing."
Golfing excursions: Wildwedge Golf and RV Park offers an on-site golf course that campers rate highly for maintenance and convenience. Jesse J. notes, "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained."
Biking trails: Multiple campgrounds connect to the Paul Bunyan Trail, allowing cyclists to explore the region without driving. As one camper at Wildwedge mentioned, "Rode our bikes on the Paul Bunyan Trail to Nisswa and had some ice cream at The Chocolate Ox. Did a little shopping and got a beer at the brewery."
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: RV There Yet Campground features sites with substantial tree coverage between neighbors. Amy G. reports, "Each site has tons of space and lots of trees between sites. No looking into your neighbors site. Plenty of space for hammocks!"
Clean facilities: Birch Bay RV Resort maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. Scott K. shared, "Very nice RV resort with clean campground, clean bathrooms & showers. Full hookups, good resort wifi and good Verizon."
Complimentary firewood: Several campgrounds provide firewood as part of the camping experience. At RV There Yet Campground, "Each site has a plentiful pile of pine to burn. Nice addition and offering!" according to a recent visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks in the Staples area operate from May through October, with varying opening and closing dates. Alexandria Shooting Park and RV Campground runs from "May 1 to October 30," giving campers a six-month window for visits.
Visitor policies: Some resorts have strict rules about day visitors. Mary F. cautions about Birch Bay: "We give this resort 5 stars because, despite it not being visitor friendly, they are up front in their policies about visitors and the place is great in all other respects."
Alcohol restrictions: While most campgrounds permit alcohol consumption, RV There Yet Campground specifically prohibits alcohol on the premises, an important consideration for those planning evening activities.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Birch Bay RV Resort offers family-friendly water features that keep children entertained. A reviewer mentioned, "Huge kiddy play area on water, free kayak and paddle board use" making it suitable for families with various age groups.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds offer activities beyond standard camping. One visitor to Wildwedge noted, "The kids loved the mini golf and maze" providing additional entertainment during downtime.
Proximity to town amenities: Big Pines RV Park provides convenient access to town services. Kelcey K. shared, "Our lot was decent size, full hookups, the kids (and adults) enjoyed the river, the Heartland Trail is a few blocks away, downtown is also close by, but yet, it didn't feel like we were in town."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: RV Resort Village has utilities positioned for Class A motorhomes, which can create challenges for travel trailers. Kelcey K. advises, "Biggest negative is that the utility hookups are designed for a Class A Motorhome so for my trailer, they were on the wrong side. Had to get a longer water hose and extension for sewer line...NOT IDEAL."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. At RV There Yet Campground, a visitor observed, "The road was very bumpy. This time of year it is fairly frozen, but could be messy in wet weather. Class 5 or gravel would be an awesome addition."
Leveling requirements: While RV Resort Village offers concrete pads "making set-up fast and easy" according to Jody M., many other campgrounds have natural or gravel surfaces requiring leveling blocks.
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