Minnesota's lake country near Wadena offers diverse glamping options beyond the popular yurt accommodations. Located in the central part of the state at about 1,350 feet elevation, this area features over 400 lakes within a 30-mile radius. Winter temperatures often drop below zero, while summer highs typically reach the 80s with occasional thunderstorms and moderate humidity.
What to do
Paddling non-motorized lakes: At Glendalough State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy serene paddling experiences. "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," notes Emily R.
Winter camping options: Lake Carlos State Park Campground offers unique winter glamping experiences. "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. We had room for a truck bed camper and a pop-up clam ice fishing tent," shares Tori K.
Biking access: The Crow Wing State Park Campground connects to extensive trail systems. "Great state campground, good hiking trails, Paul Bunyan Bike Trail passes through park(120 miles long)," says Big Craig.
What campers like
Lake access and privacy: At Crow Wing Lake Campground, "The lake front sites are small width wise but your view of the lake makes up for it and helps the site feel more spacious. This is a family run campground and it definitely has that feel--their customer service is outstanding," explains Melissa H.
Island camping experience: Campers' Paradise offers a unique glamping setting. "Campers' Paradise is island camping that you get to by driving across a 1 lane road to get to the island. There are lakefront sites or interior sites but this is as close to beach front camping as you will get in MN! The lake front sites have their own sandy walk in to the water," notes Melissa H.
Cart-in camping: Glendalough State Park Campground provides a more secluded experience. "The tent sites are all cart in, making the scenery the main focus. You don't have to stare at vehicles while you are enjoying a fire, which I love. They also have sites that you can canoe in to as well as cabins and yurts," says Tracy Z.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Maplewood State Park Campground has different levels of privacy. "The campsites are reasonable and private. But if you're not in the main loop you'll be walking for half a mile round trip," advises Oliver I.
Winter glamping considerations: Lake Carlos offers winter options but requires preparation. "We stayed in the truck camper and me and another friend stayed in the clam with an electric space heater going in addition to our 0 degree bags. It stayed pretty cozy! Fire ring and picnic table at the site. I believe the bathrooms and showers were closed for the season," explains Tori K.
Insect awareness: Crow Wing State Park Campground can have seasonal pest issues. "If you visit in the summertime, expect hellish mosquitoes and pack accordingly!" warns Sarah D.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Hungryman Lake Campground provides family-friendly water access. "A nice small campground about half way between Park Rapids and Itasca State Park. Large and mostly shaded sites with several being right on the lake," notes Seth J.
Activity variety: Sunset Pines Campground (formerly Pine Mountain) offers numerous family activities. "The staff is friendly, and go above and beyond to make sure your stay is good. The sites are clean and level. They have a pool and playground for kids among other activities," says Brent G.
Tent-only areas: For families seeking a more natural glamping experience, Glendalough State Park offers tent-focused camping. "Small park but still a great place to get outdoors for the day. No motors allowed on the lakes, so canoeing, kayaking and fishing are great," explains Dan C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Vagabond Village Campground, RVers have various options. "Lots of amenities, $60+ /night, guest fees. More open with less 'trees and camping' feel so not for everyone but we liked it," mentions amber.
Winter RV access: Lake Carlos State Park accommodates winter RV 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.
Lake view considerations: For RV glamping with views, Crow Wing Lake Campground offers strategic options. "Everything was clean and a great family rv campground. Fully stocked store, pool, games, outdoor activities, etc. Only drawback was the lake was too mucky and weedy to swim in but has to be a great fishing lake," notes Laura B.
