The best camping in Lake Carlos State Park, MN
100% (3)
Discover Lake Carlos State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.
100% (3)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Carlos State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Lake Carlos State Park
Lower Campground
1. Lower Campground
100%
(2)
Upper Campground
2. Upper Campground
100%
(1)
Horse Riders Campground
3. Horse Riders Campground
Gallop on down to Lake Carlos State Park for some serious quality time with your horse in a picture-perfect setting
Top-rated campsites near Lake Carlos State Park
Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
1. Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
96%
(14)
6.5mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Single site camp spot surrounded by woods and water. Our 51 acre parcel is just three miles from downtown Alexandria but you’ll feel like your way out of town. It’s a quiet location with no neighbors, a dock for fishing (or watching the sunset) trails for hiking and one of the best lakes for kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding.
We are located:
A short mile to a trailhead on the Central Lakes Trail
Half mile to Lake Brophy County Park with a giant playground and Mountain Bike Trails
Quarter mile from the Arrowood 18 hole golf course
Also our lake is connected to the Carlos, Le Homme Dieu, Darling Chain of lakes, jump in your boat and connect to 11 more lakes
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Picnic table
Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
2. Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
99%
(42)
11mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Escape the noise and discover a hidden gem just 10 minutes from Alexandria. Nestled off a quiet gravel road, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by trees and wide-open skies, it's an ideal spot to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being off the beaten path.
Each campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. A clean, well-maintained toilet is available on-site for your convenience.
Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a relaxing overnight stop on a road trip, or a base for exploring the lakes area, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful, no-fuss experience in nature.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Andes RV Park
3. Andes RV Park
100%
(12)
17mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Our new RV Park was opened in 2023 and features 45 full hook up spots, bath/shower house, kids play area, Pickle ball court (coming Mid July 2023), and over 800 acres of trails to enjoy. We have 2 small bodies of water accessible by our trail system that are great for kayaking and fishing. Come enjoy the outdoors with us today!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup
4. Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup
98%
(55)
24mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site
Enjoy a spacious 2-acre lakefront RV site in a natural Minnesota setting, perfect for spreading out and relaxing. The property sits along a quiet, dead-end gravel road, just a short drive from a paved county highway.
Please note: The lake bay directly connected to the site is shallow and weedy, so swimming is not recommended, and fishing from the shore or dock may be challenging. However, the scenic lake views and gentle slope to the water make this an ideal setting for your RV retreat.
Location Reference:
• ~25 miles west of Alexandria, MN
• ~90 miles northwest of St. Cloud, MN
• ~155 miles northwest of Minneapolis, MN
• ~95 miles southeast of Fargo, ND
What You’ll Find Here:
• Full RV hookups including 30-amp (220V) and 20-amp (110V) electrical service, water, and a connection to a sewage holding tank.
• Mostly open, grassy lot with full sun exposure and a few small trees along the perimeter.
• Located ½ mile off a paved county road, with minimal traffic on a dead-end gravel road.
• Small dock provided. The shallow bay may be suitable for small boats, but water levels vary and larger boats may have difficulty. Public boat launch is 1 mile away.
• Swimming is not ideal from the property, but a well-maintained public beach is just 1 mile away on a neighboring lake.
• A paved bike trail is ½ mile away, offering access to the beach and nearby town.
• Fire ring provided. Firewood is available as an optional add-on.
Things to Note
• The RV shown in photos is not included—it’s for example purposes only.
• There are no trash facilities onsite—guests must pack out all garbage.
• One RV and up to two vehicles per booking, please.
• A shed on the premises is locked and not accessible during your stay.
• No storm shelter is available. Guests are responsible for seeking shelter in case of severe weather.
• Insects and mosquitoes are common—bring repellent or screens.
• There is a neighboring house on the west side and another private lot across the bay on the east, partially screened by trees.
• You may hear distant train sounds as they pass through the area.
• A security camera is onsite, but it is disconnected between check-in and check-out for guest privacy.
Pets
Full hookups
Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake
5. Sunset Hilltop Retreat-Battle Lake
97%
(15)
26mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site
Some campsites you drive up to. This one you earn — and the lake is with you every step of the way.
The Hilltop sits on 7.5 acres above Stalker Lake in Otter Tail County, offering something genuinely rare: a private hilltop campsite with panoramic lake views and direct access to a lakeside sandy area and dock below. The climb to the site is about 250 feet and steep, but the lake view opens up from the first step and only gets better as you go. There's a bench halfway up for good reason — stop, catch your breath, and take it in. By the time you reach the top, you'll understand why guests keep coming back.
Below the hill, your lakeside area is set up for full days outside. A large, deep-sand terrace sits just above the water with Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, fire ring, and easy stair access down to the lake. The shoreline is riprap, but the lake bottom is firm sand — great for wading, swimming, and getting in and out of the canoe. It's the kind of spot where nobody moves for three hours and nobody apologizes for it. The lakeside area is shared with your hosts when we're around — friendly neighbors, not hoverers. The hilltop and lakeside area are separated by Stalker Lake Road, a low-traffic country road easy to cross on foot.
Two fire rings — one at the hilltop, one at the lakeside area — mean the evening belongs to you wherever you want to spend it. Sunsets here are a nightly event, not just a backdrop. Well-behaved dogs welcome, off-leash.
The Hilltop — Worth the climb. Every time.
Explore the Area
You're well-positioned for a full Otter Tail County experience. Glendalough State Park (15 min) — trails, swimming beach, creek tubing, kayak/bike/SUP rentals. Inspiration Peak (15 min) for a scenic hike. Phelps Mill County Park and Maplewood State Park within 40 minutes.
On the water: fish off the dock, launch at Stalker Lake public access (0.25 mi) or Long Lake (1 mi), rent a boat or pontoon through Enclave Marine or G3 Rentals, or ask us about the Otter Tail River float.
Battle Lake (10 min) for dining, groceries, and a lazy afternoon. Stalker Lake Golf Course & Bar is one mile away — walkable if you're feeling ambitious after the hill. Ask us for our local recommendations PDF with more info and links to everything above.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway
6. 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway
100%
(11)
27mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway | Near Glenwood, MN 🌿
Welcome to our peaceful retreat tucked away in the rolling countryside near Glenwood, Minnesota. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend away or a memorable group gathering, our private RV-friendly property offers a restful escape in nature.
🏕️ RV Sites Only
We currently offer three spacious RV sites, each thoughtfully equipped for comfort and convenience:
50-amp electric hookups
Water hookups - Note: not available in winter months
Easy access for large RVs
Open space to stretch out and enjoy the outdoors
🌲 On-Site Amenities
Dog-Friendly Walking Path: Take a scenic stroll with your pup along our quiet nature path
Hammock Zone: Kick back and relax under the trees
Swing with a View: A guest favorite—perfect for quiet mornings or golden hour photos
Wildlife Viewing: Watch for deer, birds, and other peaceful visitors
🌊 Local Attractions
Just a short drive from Oak Crest, you’ll find activities for all interests:
Grove Lake (minutes away): Great for swimming, fishing, and boating
Glenwood (~20 mins):
Lake Minnewaska
Rolling Forks Vineyards
Barsness Park with splash pad, trails, disc golf
Pope County Museum for local history lovers
📅 Booking Information
We're no longer offering the tiny home for rent, but our RV sites are open for peaceful stays and small gatherings. Contact us directly to check availability and reserve your spot. Booking early is encouraged during peak weekends.
🌾 Stay Connected
Follow our journey and updates:
Facebook – Oak Crest
Instagram – @oakcresttinyhome
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Swan Lake Resort & Campground
7. Swan Lake Resort & Campground
98%
(52)
35mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
⛺️ Since 1949, we've been a family-operated resort & campground on Swan Lake in Fergus Falls, MN. We offer lakeside cabins, tent camping, and full hook-up, pull-through RV sites. Here, there is time to slow down, room to breathe, and lots to explore.
🏖️ Soak up the sun on the sandy beach, hike through the hidden trails, and take the pontoon out for a cruise. Be sure to turn the tech off and challenge a rival to ping pong, crack a cold one, and explore the water on stand-up paddleboard.
🍦 Bring the little ones and get messy at the arts & crafts table, catch a sunfish off the docks, and indulge in s’mores around the campfire. Don’t forget to show us what you got on the volleyball court and savor an ice cream at the camp store. Curl up in a hammock and get lost in a good book, smile at the flowers and gaze in awe at the night sky. Just be.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
The Woods
8. The Woods
99%
(62)
38mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our hidden gem in the Minnesota woods—perfect for campers looking to unplug and enjoy the simple beauty of the outdoors. Our property offers a peaceful, rustic setting with towering trees, quiet walking trails, and plenty of wildlife. You might spot deer wandering through, hear wild turkeys gobbling in the distance, or catch a glimpse of an eagle soaring overhead.
This is a primitive property, so you won’t find modern amenities like bathrooms or running water. But what you will find is space to breathe, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're here to hike, stargaze, cook over the fire, or just relax, this is your spot to slow down and enjoy the natural world.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Swift Falls County Park
9. Swift Falls County Park
100%
(12)
41mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
The Swift Falls County Park is located on the banks of the Chippewa River in the village of Swift Falls, Minnesota.
The park is open for camping from May to October and online registration is available below. Swift Falls Park is a great place to hike, fish, or enjoy the playground. Pets are allowed.
Need Firewood? Firewood can be purchased from the white building across the river (over the bridge) by the dam.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wold Ranch
10. Wold Ranch
95%
(10)
42mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site
Pause your travels for the night or spend a few days. Conveniently located right off US Hwy 71 or 20 miles from I-94. This is a level RV site able to accommodate big rigs, 50amp service and water. We are a working family farm. Enjoy the horses , cows, cats, and dog. Patio with shade and fire ring located next to site.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Willow
11. Willow
100%
(1)
3.3mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 2 sites
Nestled on five peaceful acres, Willow offers a charming country escape surrounded by woods and wildflower fields. With just two campsites—one tucked into the trees and one beside a blooming field—you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself.
Our home is also on the property, but we’re often away on weekends, so chances are, you'll have the whole space to enjoy in solitude.
Located just miles from multiple lakes and only a short drive to Carlos State Park and Spruce Hill Park, Willow is a great home base for fishing, hiking, paddling, or simply relaxing in nature. You’re also just 20 minutes from Alexandria, where you’ll find great restaurants, local shops, and plenty to explore downtown.
Whether you’re looking for quiet reflection or a jumping-off point for adventure, Willow offers the best of both worlds.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
RV There Yet
12. RV There Yet
75%
(10)
9.7mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 40 sites
RV There Yet is located in the gorgeous town of Alexandria, Minnesota. Campers come here every year to escape the busyness of life; visitors can look forward to clean and well-managed facilities, friendly and helpful staff, and of course, plenty of peace and quiet.
There's tons to do around the park, so expect excellent golf courses, bowling alleys, local museums and antique shops. There's also a plethora of great dining options, so if you're from out of town, be sure to dine out as much as you can to experience Alexandria through its cuisine.
Near the campground, campers can also enjoy tastings at the Carlos Creek Winery or take the kids to the Erickson Petting Zoo.
Pets
Full hookups
The Motel & Motor Lodge
13. The Motel & Motor Lodge
13mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 7 sites
THE NEXT CHAPTER FOR SPORTSMAN’S LODGE
Welcome to your home base in Osakis—where things are a little nostalgic, a little modern, and always evolving. Our 20-unit motel is in the middle of a full glow-up, brought to life by a local husband-and-wife team who saw the potential and ran with it. What was once long-term apartments is now being transformed into a clean, cozy, and thoughtfully updated stay—while still keeping its small-town roots.
Each guest room has been fully renovated with a fresh, modern feel, so you’ll have a comfortable and stylish space to unwind. That said, we’re still actively working on the property, so don’t be surprised if you see a familiar face or hear a little progress happening nearby during the day. It’s all part of the story here—and we think that’s what makes it special.
We’re located within walking distance to everything Osakis has to offer, making it easy to explore, relax, and settle into lake life at your own pace. We offer a fully virtual check-in experience (hello, convenience 🙌), so you can arrive on your own time and get settled without the wait. While we don’t provide daily housekeeping, each room is stocked with everything you should need for your stay—and if something comes up, we’re just a message away and happy to help.
We may not be the Ritz, but we’re clean, comfortable, locally owned, and full of character—and we’re building something really special here. We’re so glad you’re part of it.
Pets
Full hookups
Panfish Landing: “The Corner”
14. Panfish Landing: “The Corner”
100%
(1)
20mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive camp site with access to great fishing lake. Bring your camper or tent and enjoy listening to resident loons, watching an active eagle’s nest up close, and soaking in all the sounds of nature. Unwind and disconnect at this private site at the end of a dead end gravel road. Located on the north side of Hancock Lake, 1 mile east of pristine Eagle Lake, in Otter Tail County! Swim at Eagle Lake’s amazing sand beach or land your boat there. Then retreat back to the campsite for a peaceful evening sunset! Kayak, fish, play horse shoes, walk, relax, enjoy.
Amenities:
- Dock
- Eagle viewing
- Fire ring
- Picnic table
- Swings for kids
- Horse shoe pit
- Quiet road for walks/biking
- Easy access, self check-in/out
- *no electric hookups
- *no toilet
- *no water for drinking/washing
- *no swimming beach
- *no garbage service (take all garbage home)
Nearby attractions:
- Inspiration peak (8 miles): hiking
- Battle lake (11 miles): quaint town with arts, ice cream, restaurants, beach, playground
- Eagle Lake Park (2 miles): swimming beach, boating, fresh water coral, Caribbean clear water
- Silver Sage Ranch (4 miles): horseback riding
- Glendalough State Park (14 miles): hiking, biking, swimming
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Clitheral Lake Hideaway
15. Clitheral Lake Hideaway
23mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site
Escape to the end of the road—literally—and find your slice of Minnesota lake life on beautiful Clitheral Lake. This peaceful, private campsite is the last property on a quiet dead-end road, nestled behind a scenic pine forest that opens up into a spacious clearing perfect for tenting or parking your RV.
Enjoy all-day lake fun with direct access to a sandy beach that stays shallow for a long stretch—perfect for kids, lounging, or just soaking in the sun. Toss in a line for some of the area’s best fishing, or head out on the dock with your morning coffee or evening beverage of choice.
As the day winds down, take in some of the most stunning sunsets around while gathered around the campfire pit perched right over the water. It’s a postcard-perfect view every night.
With access to electricity, a peaceful setting with only one neighbor nearby, and nature all around you, this is the kind of spot that makes you want to stay an extra night or two. Whether you're looking to unplug, reconnect, or just catch a few fish and some serious sunset vibes, this hidden gem has you covered.
Note there are two campers on the property that stay parked there but will not be in use during renting.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Off Grid Thrift & Events
16. Off Grid Thrift & Events
28mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
28 beautiful acres in Amish Country! Owner is friendly and runs a thrift store on site. 3 separate fields to choose from. “Shepherds Field” has an outdoor music stage with an upright piano and power to it as well as a grand piano available to play in the thrift shop. “Husky field” is more woodsy feeling and last but not least is “Field of Dreams” the most off grid we can offer here! No power, water, WiFi or noise! We are Canna friendly if you can be discreet. 360 deg views of nature and sky! Beautiful sunrises & sunsets. Bring your animals (Dogs, horses, you pick) and some hiking shoes and rock hound on site. 15 minutes to nearest Walmart. 7 minutes to nearest nice restaurant & bar. Wadena & Staples are a thrift shoppers dream! Wadena also features fantastic restaurants including a superb German brewery with the best wood fire pizzas in the state, with many other unique places to check out! Nearest lake is about a 15 minute drive. There are currently 2 well water spouts to hook up to. Working on 240, but can only offer 120 by extension cord at this time. Unless you have a 20’ plus cord and don’t mind parking close to the garage. WiFi available near the house. Or get away from all the static in field of dreams.
This ranch was established in 1907 and the outbuildings still need work, as well as public bathrooms which we can only offer by Porta potty for $100/day which is what we are charged. This is our first year offering camping to the public, so bear with us and help support a good cause so we can continue to add amenities here.
There’s endless miles of absolutely beautiful motorcycle & trail riding out here!
Funds help us continue to raise awareness to addiction & suicide and bring support to those who have been affected by either.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
Bruce's RV spot
17. Bruce's RV spot
31mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Convenient location near multiple lakes and small towns. Stay here while you explore local fishing and small town central Minnesota activities.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Big Birch Slice Of Pie
18. Big Birch Slice Of Pie
32mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A slice of heaven all for your viewing pleasure!
Connected to another 1.25 acres with cabins is a 3 acre wide open space with 360 views of the lake and a RV hookup.
Patios to sit and view and no neighbours make this the most sought after heavenly space!
Game room on property fun for all types with pool table and shuffleboard, darts and air hockey.
Great for rainy days too!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Walker Lake Preserve
19. Walker Lake Preserve
34mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Lake access Camping Sites. 68 Seasonal Sites and 4 Short-Term sites available.
Large beach and 28 Boat Slip Marina. Boat into Otter Tail Lake most times.
Two picnic shelters, two play areas for the kids and large playfield.
Over two miles of nature trails.
Natural areas teeming with wildlife.
Quiet, friendly residents. Pet Friendly.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Fish Trap Oasis
20. Fish Trap Oasis
82%
(11)
39mi from Lake Carlos State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come relax and restore at a quiet lakeside camp spot on Fish Trap Lake! The property is perfect for any small group fishermen, campers or RVers who want private lake views.
The property is next to a government nature preserve and located near various cabins. Fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing and swimming can all be enjoyed on Fish Trap Lake. We are less than a mile from the boat launch on Lake Alexander which is great for fishing. A dock is also on the property for lake access.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Rose
3 days ago
16 ft car
Had such an amazing time camping! Seen so many different type of birds and wildlife. Very peaceful and my dog is definitely worn out from all the fun
See more
M
Marcy
4 days ago
15 ft truck camper
With pets
From the very beginning Russell was great to work with! He answered all of our questions in a timely manner. He was always polite and helpful with suggestions of places in the area. His communication was amazing! He let us know about the wildlife on the property. He told us there was a killdeer birds nest in the grass which was helpful so we’re able to avoid it with our dogs.. We stayed there for Memorial weekend and had a great time. It was peaceful and relaxing. We enjoyed kayaking off the dock they had. We enjoyed sitting around the camp fire. We all enjoyed being at Russel’s place. We would go again in a heart beat. Only thing to watch out for would be one of the neighbors dog, a German Shepard. He was really sweet and friendly, just startled us every time because he was so quiet. You would look over and he would be standing there like he was part of the group hanging out. There is plenty of room to play yard games. It was a great getaway. Thank you Russell for having us!!
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Nora
1 week ago
1 night at Andes RV Park
Super cute spot! Really enjoyed it. Loved the spaciousness around the cabin and the fact that it had a picnic table right outside of it. Lots of trails to walk my dog around, which was perfect. The only thing I'd say is--make sure you pay attention to your drive to the spot. There are no wayfinding signs out in the trails!
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Samuel
2 weeks ago
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is one of my favorite camping spots. Beautiful, remote location and fantastic host.
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andrea
3 weeks ago
Tent
This is the perfect spot to get away. Private but not hard to find and only two hours from Fargo! Will definitely be back!
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T
Taylor
3 weeks ago
Tent
We stayed on the island site and it was beautiful. Its a bit of a walk to and from the car/bathroom, but still very worth it. The rushing river is the perfect natural white noise to fall asleep to and makes it feel like a very private area even with other sites not far away. We didn't even hear the other campers. Downsides: the shower isn't very good. Just a pipe coming out of the wall (water is a good temp though), a mirror in the bathroom would also go a long way, and finally we couldn't find/buy wood where they said it would be and never received an answer or call back when we tried to asked about it and even left a voicemail Friday evening (we stayed fri-sun).
Overall I'd still definitely recommend this site and would happily come again. Very peaceful beautiful area with a state park not far away. Great weekend getaway!
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J
Jim
October 2025
A
ANDREW
October 2025
20 ft campervan
Wonderful establishment! Well thought out. Beautiful and peaceful stay. Communication with host was very accommodating. All the amenities needed.
See moreL
L
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
We enjoyed our stay so much! This is a lovely, quiet spot. Easy to find, but no highway noise. Check in was straightforward with great communication from the hosts. You can see the other sites, but they are comfortably separated. Beautiful sunset view from under the giant old oak tree shading our little camper. We were so happy to have had the opportunity to stay and would definitely recommend.
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Heidi
October 2025
Tent
I stayed at the Peak in May 2025 and couldn’t think of a better place to close out my camping season. The site was even more beautiful with fall colors emerging. Mindy is attentive and helpful, and the farm eggs are amazing. Highly recommend this Hipcamp.
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D
Derek
September 2025
32 ft Class A
With pets
Swan Lake Resort and Campground was the perfect escape for our family. From the moment we arrived, the peaceful atmosphere wrapped around us — quiet mornings with birdsong, calm lake breezes, and spacious campsites that gave everyone room to breathe. One of the best parts was the uninterrupted stillness during the day and especially in the evenings. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and generously sized slots, there was very little noise or commotion from neighboring campers, which made it easy to truly relax.
The staff were incredibly kind and attentive — when my son crashed his bike, they didn’t hesitate to help with his wounds, showing genuine care that meant a lot to us. Their flexibility with boat rentals was also a gift; they rolled with our shifting plans and even a last-minute cancellation when the kids hit a moody streak on our final day.
We loved the honor-system store, where you could grab a snack or drink from the fridge or shelves and simply jot it down for later billing. It felt like a place built on trust and community. And scattered throughout the grounds were these amazing tree carvings — almost like totem poles — that added a touch of rustic artistry and whimsy to the landscape.
This wasn’t just a campground — it was a place where we felt cared for, connected, and free to enjoy the simple joy. We will definitely be going back.
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Mary and Dan
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
Wonderful campground with amazing amenity and game room.
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S
Sam
September 2025
28 ft travel trailer
Kobi's place was an amazing site, just outside of town so everything was close, but the site was nice and quiet and very secluded. We were encouraged to burn as much wood as we desired for our campfires, which was awesome. We also enjoyed the calm lake with our paddleboard, and visits from the ever so friendly pup. They gave us a local area tourist guide and were happy to provide any help. All in all I wouldn't hesitate to come back as the site was fantastic and the hosts were even better!
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V
Vamsi
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Loved tent camping on the Site! And the view from the top was a reward after the short trek. Was able to take pretty much everything in two trips and the cart helped a lot!
See moreSamuel
September 2025
Tent
Always one of my favorite places to camp! Michael is the best host and the property is beautiful a secluded.
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Doug
September 2025
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
It is secluded and peaceful. Had a nice time walking up the road between the corn fields. He was quick with response time and there was firewood available. The sight was also well taken care of. Great place to get away from everything.
See moreA
Amber
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
2nd booking! Will be continuing to book in the future!
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K
Karen
September 2025
26 ft travel trailer
This place was perfect for us. It had full hook-ups for a reasonable price. Easy to get to and was close to town and the bike trail. It was a clean, quiet campground which suited our needs perfectly. The manager, Amy, was very friendly and accommodating. I would definitely come back!!
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N
Nickolis
September 2025
20 ft pop-up camper
It was nice and quite had a couple of very relaxing days. The bathrooms where always clean and plenty of activities to keep you busy if you wanted to be!
See moreW
Whitney
August 2025
22 ft campervan
Beautiful camp site! Will be back! The host provided a lot of great information right after booking and was super friendly!
See moreLake Carlos State Park camping guide
Overview
About
You can thank the glaciers for this one. Long, long ago, those big chunks of ice gave way to Minnesota’s Lake Carlos State Park. Now, in it’s 21st-century state, this park is a wilderness wonderland that has everything you could want: woodland ponds, acres of forest, tamarack bogs, wide-open grasslands, marshes, meadows, lakes, prairies, rolling hills, way-high ridges, the list could go on and on. These clear and pristine waters are surrounded by beauty in all forms, which gives way to seriously endless possibilities when it comes to fun and activities. With everything being within a few minutes of each other, this is the perfect spot to bring a bunch of friends and grab one of the awesome lakeside group spots! Over one-third of Minnesota’s wildlife lives here, so if they love it, we know you will find something to love about Lake Carlos, too.
When to go
The best time to visit Lake Carlos State Park is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when all activities are fully accessible. Winter offers a serene, snowy escape, though some amenities may be limited. Avoid visiting during extreme weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Know before you go
- Highway 67 is closed; follow alternative directions provided to access different park areas.
- Google Maps may mislead; use provided GPS coordinates for accurate navigation.
- Check in at your campsite; park staff will assist with registration.
- Stay updated on events by signing up for the park's email updates.
- Contact the park at 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367 for any inquiries.
Reviews for Lake Carlos State Park Campgrounds
100%
3 ratings · 2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Lower Campground
This site, by the river, was sublime. A great experience. The hosts were amazing and the site well-stocked. My only regret is that I only stayed one night. I hope to be back.
J
John P.
7 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
This was a great spot. Hosts were very gracious. Highly recommend.
J
John P.
7 reviews
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