Sakatah Lake State Park Campground spans 842 acres around a 340-acre shallow lake and offers 62 campsites spread across wooded and prairie areas. Visitors to the park should prepare for late summer algae blooms in the lake, which can affect water recreation. The campground connects to the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail, with electrical sites available April through October.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Bray County Park, campers can enjoy fishing access at the clean beach area. "Sites by the lake looked nice. Beach is nice and clean," reports Josh B., who stayed at the park.
Biking on paved trails: The Rapidan Dam area connects to several biking paths suitable for all skill levels. "Great primitive only sites. Cycling into sites can be difficult because some have lots of sand on the path," notes a cyclist who visited Rapidan Dam Co Park.
Wildlife observation: Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife at Rice Lake Campground, especially in early morning hours. "We saw a bull frog and a few leopard frogs at the boat launch. And continued on our hike. We saw a few cool birds, lots of berries and a few interesting bugs," describes James B. after visiting Rice Lake Campground.
Paddle sports: Several local lakes support paddle boarding and kayaking with rentals available seasonally. "This park was lovely, it's on an island and we had a pretty amazing view!! We did a little hiking and enjoyed the semi empty campground only 10-15 people!! We saw a ton of wild life many many many deer," shares Erin L. about her experience with kayaks at Myre-Big Island State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: Lake Washington County Park receives high marks for spacious sites with good separation. "This is a county park that is fairly new. Campground host was super nice and very accommodating. Some traffic noise during the day. Bathrooms and showers were very clean," notes Carolyn M.
Stargazing opportunities: The open skies away from urban light pollution create excellent night sky viewing conditions. "We sat and watched the sun set and join in on the star gazing event that was going on in the park. We got to look at the moon and Saturn through a few big telescopes," shares James B. about Rice Lake.
Family-friendly amenities: Kieslers Clear Lake Campground consistently receives praise for its features designed for families with children. "The owner is top notch. They spray for mosquitoes every year and never an issue. Two playgrounds, the pool has two slides and a kiddie pool. Always something going on for the family," Joseph G. explains.
Helpful staff: Campground hosts throughout the Waterville area receive consistent praise for their helpfulness. "Once we finally got settled in, the campground host, Katie, offered to bring us wood, and even took our 11 year old for a little ride around the park in the caboda," shares Jamee H. about her experience at Bray County Park.
What you should know
Mosquito conditions: Insect activity can be intense during summer months, particularly near water. "The mosquitoes were so bad they could have carried a small dog. The water smelled horrible when we went," warns Carla A. about Bray County Park during peak season.
Seasonal lake conditions: Many lakes in the region experience algae blooms during late summer. "Sakatah Lake is quite shallow so late season is at risk of algae bloom - the lake was pea soup green when we got there at the end of August, so go early in the season if you want to get on the water," advises Emma G.
Gate closing times: Some parks enforce strict entrance gate schedules. "Biggest problem with the campground is gates in and out lock every night at 10pm and don't open again until 8am. So our first night we got locked out and had to sleep in the vehicle," warns Cody about his experience.
Water quality notices: Check for current water advisories before planning water activities. "The drinking water had consumption warnings, the modern restrooms were closed, and the lake isn't swimmable. Otherwise there was some great hiking, and the park ranger was friendly and very prepared for COVID," notes Matt C.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for playground time: Cleary Lake Regional Park offers extensive recreation options for children. "We really want to use one of the large group camp sites for a weekend party!" shares Lili R., highlighting the family-friendly environment.
Choose spots near amenities: When glamping in Waterville with children, select sites with easy bathroom access. "This campground has a TON of sites! There are close to 60 sites in all, about a third to half of those are electric sites. If you like open spaces, this is a wonderful place to camp," advises Michael C.
Consider swimming options: Not all parks have suitable swimming areas despite being on lakes. "It's a nice park but no swimming beach we could find. Sites are nice sized and it's quiet $6 for firewood. Will come back for a weekend the staff we have seen seem very nice," shares Ed W.
Book early for glamping options: Luxury camping accommodations in the Waterville area fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "Very nice county park. Water and electric hookups. The lake is nice for fishing, boating or swimming. Has a small store," notes Carla A.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park, RVers should prepare for varying site conditions. "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow. The camping sites are nice sized and relatively private. There is a gravel pad on each site and some have a tent pad," reports Cheryl W.
Navigating narrow roads: Larger RVs require careful maneuvering on some campground roads. "Very nice park if your RV is not to 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," advises Tim B.
Electric-only limitations: Plan accordingly for parks without full hookups. "This was my third time camping at this campground and I love it more and more every time. It's next to a lake so we can easily bring our kayaks with," notes Kayla O., who appreciates the access despite limited hookups.
Early arrival recommended: Arrive during daylight hours to navigate park roads safely. "We were able to drive through the campground with our 40 foot fifth wheel. But just barely, be careful!" warns Cheryl W. about maneuvering large vehicles at White Fox campground.
