Glacial Lakes State Park Campground sits among rolling prairie hills near Starbuck, Minnesota at 1,300 feet elevation. The park features crystal-clear kettle lakes formed by glacial activity, with camping areas positioned between tall prairie grass and shorelines. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity levels than nearby wooded areas.
What to do
Swimming in kettle lakes: The swimming area at Glacial Lakes State Park Campground offers remarkably clear water for cooling off. "The water in the lake is nice and clear. The swimming area isn't awesome, but I have seen much worse," notes Tony S. Water visibility extends several feet, allowing swimmers to see the natural lake bottom.
Stand-up paddleboarding: Rent boards at Glacial Lakes for exploring the calm waters. "Our favorite part of this trip was renting stand up paddle boards. The lake water was crystal clear and glass like calm," reports Tessa Z. Rentals run approximately $15/hour and are available May through September.
Prairie hiking trails: Explore the 5+ miles of trails through Lake Carlos State Park Campground with marked routes of varying difficulty. "We did more skiing on Sunday and checked out the 2 campgrounds as they were on the ski route. The trails are very wooded and pretty," writes Joanna B. Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing on 2.4 miles of dedicated trails.
Fishing from designated piers: Cast a line at Hobo Park which offers lake access with docks. "There is a wonderful playground and a dock where the kids can fish," mentions Lisa H. The fishing pier near Glacial Lakes swim area requires caution as "enormous snapping turtles stealing the fish off your hook" have been reported.
What campers like
Camper cabins: Lake Carlos State Park provides heated cabins for year-round stays. "We were able to reserve a camper cabin - Frog Pond. It was a nice change and a warmer option, the cabin is gorgeous! Frog Pond sleeps 6 with heat and electricity," shares Joanna B. Similar accommodations at Glacial Lakes provide shelter during inclement weather.
Oak Ridge Campground privacy: The elevated campground area offers more separation between sites. "Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground. Site 28 and 30 don't have tree cover, but have beautiful views of the rolling hills," explains Mike O. Sites feature prairie views with moderate tree coverage.
Winter camping options: Swift Falls County Park maintains limited winter availability. "Some of the spaces are small. We had site 3b which was good sized. Beautiful stream," reports Lisa. Lake Carlos State Park also keeps one electric site open during winter months alongside their lantern-lit snowshoe trail.
Close proximity to towns: Most campgrounds offer easy access to nearby communities. "We did go into Starbuck which is 5 miles away. Very impressive beach, groceries and a DQ all an easy drive away," mentions Lisa H. Similarly, Andes RV Park provides "outstanding trails that they use in the winter time for cross-country skiing with tons of outdoor activities."
What you should know
Tick exposure in prairie areas: The tall grass environments create higher risk for tick encounters. "Due to the grass, there were many ticks, pets should be treated for ticks ahead of time. We didn't stay overnight due to the amount of them," warns Joe W. Apply repellent before hiking and perform daily tick checks.
Bug management necessary: Andes RV Park visitors emphasize bug preparation. "Side note: if coming in summer make sure to bring plenty of bug spray!!!" cautions a reviewer. At Glacial Lakes, one camper noted, "Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray."
Water level variations: Lake levels fluctuate seasonally affecting dock and beach access. "The lake was really high when we visited, which led to a useless campground fishing pier and a boat dock that you had to swim to to use. There was no beach, but there may have been if the water level was normal," explains Lisa H. Check water conditions before planning water activities.
Limited internet connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "Internet service is very spotty," notes Lisa about Swift Falls. Backup navigation tools and offline entertainment options recommended for most rural sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hobo Park offers play equipment near camping areas. "We had a great time camping with friends at this campground. Even though the sites are a bit small and very basic, there is a wonderful playground and a dock where the kids can fish," writes Lisa H. This provides convenient entertainment without driving.
Swimming beach selection: Lake conditions vary significantly between parks. "Large beach area for swimming and pylons to tie up boats. Good trail system and a great swimming area," Jay H. says about Lake Carlos State Park. The water clarity makes swimming more appealing for children compared to murkier lakes in the region.
Easy hiking options: Multiple short trail options accommodate younger hikers. "The High Peak Trail did have some lovely views though!" notes Tessa Z. about Glacial Lakes. Most parks maintain 1-2 mile loop trails with minimal elevation gain suitable for children.
Family activities at campgrounds: Oak Park Kampground schedules regular events. "Our kids (3, 5, 7) enjoy the pool, the activities the staff plans, playground, paddle boats, and more," shares Nathan E. These structured activities provide entertainment during extended stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: Lower campgrounds typically offer more tree coverage. "The sites are close side-to-side, but trees line the outside sites and there is good back-to-back space between the inner sites," explains Amanda M. about Glacial Lakes' Lower Campground. This provides afternoon cooling during summer months.
Electric hookup locations: The arrangement of utilities affects setup requirements. "The water fill and dump stations are on the opposite side of most campers which was the only downside. There was not water supply at the dump station to rinse out the tank," notes Amanda M. Bring extra hose length for these situations.
Level site availability: Pomme De Terre Campground provides varied terrain. "Pretty nice campground with water and electric. Some sites are a little difficult to get into but not impossible," notes Marcy F. Request specific site numbers when making reservations if leveling is a concern.
Winter RV accommodations: Limited but available options exist for cold-weather camping. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter," explains Tori K. about Lake Carlos State Park. Proper insulation and heating systems essential for winter stays.
