Turner, Minnesota offers RV campers forested sites with convenient access to diverse outdoor activities. Located in north-central Minnesota near McGregor, the area features sandy-bottomed lakes and access to ATV trail systems. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during July and August.
What to do
ATV trail riding: Turner's location connects to hundreds of miles of ATV trails. At Trails Inn Quadna Mountain Motel & RV Campground, "Paved walking and biking trails and hundreds of miles of ATV trails connected right to the rv park," according to Elijah R.
Golfing: Several campgrounds cater specifically to golfers. "The golf course is amazing - one of the nicer public courses in the state. I can see a lot of folks choosing this RV park as a golf vacation," notes Bret S. about the course at Minnesota National RV Park.
Fishing: The Turner area offers excellent fishing opportunities. At Trout Lake Campground, campers appreciate "the quality of the fishing on trout lake," as mentioned by Carlee H. Some campers report catching walleye and bass regularly.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV parks near Turner provide ample space between sites. At Red Pine Campground, "Our 35' travel trailer fit well into our back-in site. Full hookups and everything worked as expected," according to Sam C., who also noted the park "felt well cared for and attended too."
Dog-friendly amenities: Several RV parks feature special amenities for pets. "The fenced in dog park was a big bonus for our pup," Crystal W. mentions about Banning RV Park. Another campground even includes "a complete dog playground with all the standards elements of a dog agility course!"
Lake access: Waterfront camping options are available. At Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area, "We were in spot 12 and it was right on the water... you can park your boat on the dock in front of your spot," explains Melissa A.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Turner area operate from May through September. Red Pine Campground is specifically open "May 1 to October 1," and Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area runs "May 1 - Sep 30."
Hookup configurations: At some parks, utilities are positioned in challenging locations. "Our utilities were at the back of the site, and we needed about 35' of electric and water hose," reports a camper at Fiddlestix RV and Golf Resort.
Reservation needs: For holiday weekends, advance planning is essential. "With 50+ sites, park was full for the three days around July 4, but was under 50% the rest of the time," notes Bret S. about Minnesota National RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with swimming areas: Wildwedge Golf and RV Park offers family-friendly attractions. "The kids loved the mini golf and maze and we all loved the cute little golf course that was very well maintained," says Jesse J., who added that families can "ride bikes on the Paul Bunyan Trail to Nisswa and had some ice cream."
Consider shower and bathroom facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies across campgrounds. At Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area, facilities "tend to get pretty bad and could use more than once a day cleaning on holiday weekends," according to Brandon F.
Check playground availability: Many Turner area campgrounds include kid-friendly play areas. "Multiple fishing areas, couple of playgrounds, and good history lessons," notes Brent G. about the Sandy Lake COE Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup requirements: Some parks have shared water hookups that require special equipment. "Water hookups were shared with other sites and required 'y' connections at the spigots," mentions a camper about their experience at Banning RV Park and Campground.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Site was gravel and a little un-level, but nothing extreme," reports Sam C. about Red Pine Campground.
Dump station access: Some dump stations have logistical challenges. At Trout Lake Campground, campers mention the dump station location can require longer planning for larger rigs or those with towed vehicles.
