Elevated glamping options dot the landscape near Vermillion, Minnesota, where prairie trails and pine forests create contrasting camping environments. Winter temperatures often dip below freezing from November through March, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. Most cabins in this area feature electric heating systems allowing for year-round use regardless of seasonal conditions.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Afton State Park features 11 miles of hiking paths with significant elevation changes. "I hiked 11 miles here and it was awesome!" reports Mike K. The park combines river views with prairie landscapes, offering varied terrain for different skill levels.
Beach activities: Lake Byllesby Regional Park offers swimming in a designated beach area with shade structures. "The paved trail around the area is really nice for walking the pups. Very clean and well kept campground," notes Tonya B. The beach remains open during summer months but typically closes after Labor Day.
Wildlife observation: Watch for native birds and animals throughout the parks. "I was so amazed with all the sounds of birds in this park. I heard Everything from Eagles, Canadian Geese and Swans to Woodpeckers and multiple song birds," writes Shelly S. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Winter exploration: Snow-covered trails provide different seasonal experiences. "The cabins in the woods are great in winter with snow on the pine trees," notes Krista T., highlighting how glamping near Vermillion transforms during colder months.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary by site: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers secluded camping options with lake views. "Site 13 is the only one right on the water and it's HUGE with lots of trees and absolutely beautiful scenery," explains Clare L. Sites throughout the region range from open prairie settings to densely wooded areas.
Clean facilities: Most glamping locations maintain high cleanliness standards. "Amazing bathroom/Showers. Quiet, lots of flies, good spot overall. The golfing nearby that seemed reasonably priced for those interested," reports Truly W. about Cleary Lake Regional Park.
Short-distance seclusion: Walk-in sites provide privacy without difficult access. "The hike in sites are super close to the car so it doesn't even require much work," Scott M. shares about Cleary Lake. Similarly, at Afton State Park, "The hike to the campground is short and grueling. A few of the sites are in wooded areas, but we stayed in one of the prairie sites. The terrain is just hilly enough - and in August - the grass long enough to give the sites a sense of privacy and seclusion."
Architectural design: Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins features elevated structures with thoughtful interior elements. "The storage in this place is amazing. Storage under the bed, one counter with ample storage under it, and even the windows are so deep that I was able to store most of my food on the sill," describes Krista T.
What you should know
Reservation windows: Booking for popular glamping sites opens 120 days before arrival date. "Plan ahead as these are hard to come by," advises Scott M. about Whitetail Woods Camper Cabins. Weekends in summer often fill immediately when reservations open.
Seasonal water limitations: Water access varies by season at many parks. "The outdoor water stations close during winter months," notes one camper. At Afton State Park, "None of the water faucets or water pumps on the trails at Afton State Park are working. The good news is you can fill up on cold drinking water at the visitor center before trekking around the park's beautiful hiking trails!"
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs across glamping locations. "There's WiFi available, but depending on which cabin you reserve signal will be too weak for real usage. Same for mobile data -- don't plan on cell service here," Blair mentions about Whitetail Woods.
Space constraints: Baker Campground offers varying site sizes that may impact comfort. "The sites are about as private as the typical state park, so not very, but that is offset by all the other positives this campground has to offer," explains Bryan S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature kid-friendly play areas. "Great family campground! Camping spots are rather close, but we have two little ones so they made friends quick with other children," notes Angela L. about Lake Byllesby Regional Park. "The playground is a short walk to the tent area, which was a big hit with our kids."
Activity variety: Bunker Hills Regional Park provides extensive recreation options. "Something for everyone here! The facilities are well kept, the park is patrolled by rangers and the local sheriff after closing hours. Very safe place to camp. Perfect for kids, they have a water park with a wave pool, a disc golf course, a golf course, several pavilions with grills, a few playgrounds and plenty of trails both paved and unpaved," explains Arielle P.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "Our site was also right next to the office which was also the location for bathrooms and showers. The girls loved going inside for ice cream treats when the weather was a little too hot to handle," shares Angela L.
Educational opportunities: Natural areas offer learning experiences. "Many glamping accommodations connect to nature centers where you and your kids can learn about the natural surrounding habitats," notes one visitor to Lake Auburn Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Check length and width restrictions before booking. "Very nice park if your RV is not too big. I put our 38 foot 5th wheel in a site but you better be on your game here. Lots of shade and big trees," warns Tim B. about Sakatah Lake State Park.
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs by campground. "Water and electric hookups. The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming. Has a small store," shares Carla A. about Lake Byllesby.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some sites. "While some sites are a little uneven and better suited to RVs than to tents, all sites are spacious and clean," explains Sarah S. about Lake Auburn Campground.
Dump station access: Not all glamping locations provide full service hookups. Most regional parks have dump stations, but their locations may require driving through the campground upon departure rather than being conveniently located at individual sites.
