The best camping in Monson Lake State Park, MN

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🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway

100%
(11)
21mi from Monson Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Glenwood, MN
🌿 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 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night

Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup

98%
(54)
44mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site · RV · Hoffman, MN
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

Makers' Acres

100%
(3)
47mi from Monson Lake State Park · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kimball, MN
Makers Acres is our home, our pottery studio named, Maine Prairie Studio, the Lakeside Campground, The Wedge and our camper, Andromeda. Guests are able to reserve the camper, The Wedge or Lakeside Campground to stay in. The camper is equipped with running water, electricity etc. The lakeside campground has enough space for 3 different dispersed campsites. The Wedge, is just enough for 1-2 people to stay. Since we are potters, guests are able to book some cool "Extras" at the studio. Below are the "Extras" we have available to register for. - "Come Try It" Pottery Experiences - Kayak Rentals - Paddleboard Rentals - Seasonal Garden Vegetables - Firewood - Athletic Brewing Company, NA Brews -20% Discount on our handmade pottery in our Gallery while your Hipcamping at Makers Acres. We look forward to helping you find your next hipcamping experience here at Makers Acres. During warm weather you are able to access Murray Lake from our property to swim, kayak or paddle board. During winter, we live 1/2 mile from a ski hill, Powder Ridge, which has tubing, downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

Four Leaf

92%
(6)
49mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Brandon, MN
Tucked away at the very end of a dead-end road, Four Leaf Campground offers a peaceful, private retreat on one of Minnesota’s quiet gems—Big Chippewa Lake. This one-acre slice of heaven boasts 400 feet of lakeshore and borders state land, giving you direct access to nature and unmatched seclusion. Set up your tent or park your RV beneath a canopy of mature trees that provide natural shade and a cool, relaxing atmosphere. With two private docks, you can fish right from shore or take your boat out—walleye are plentiful and the lake is perfect for a quiet morning cast or a sunset reel-in. While we don’t have hookups, well water, or septic, we offer something you won’t find at most campgrounds: privacy, beauty, and space to breathe. This spot is ideal for families, solo campers, or anyone looking to unplug and enjoy the simple joys of lakeside camping. Come experience the magic of Four Leaf Campground—where the only sounds you’ll hear are the breeze in the trees and the splash of fish on the line.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night

Other options near Monson Lake State Park

The best camping in Monson Lake State Park, MN guide

Overview

About

Though it doubled in size in 2009, Monson Lake State Park remains one of Minnesota’s smallest (and awesomest) spots to don a bathing suit (or fishing vest). Due to a lower visitation, not much has been altered since it opened in the 1930s, and why would they? With Sunburg Lake by which to sun, tons of game fish to bait, and boat rentals on the shore, Monson Lake is a pretty rad place to spend a weekend (only open in the summer months and with just 20 campsites, you’ll want to reserve right about now—thank us later).

Originally established as a memorial to 13 Swedish American pioneers who died in the Dakota War of 1862, this park contains archaeological evidence of Native American tribes as early as 1000 BCE! And the variety of tools and materials they found suggested a wide and healthy trade route with Wisconsin, North Dakota, and even Canada.

Notable campgrounds

  • Yellow Medicine River Campground - Offers a tranquil riverside camping experience amid lush greenery.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, as campsites fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as last-minute openings can occur.
  • Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Monson Lake State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it's also the busiest season. Winters can be harsh, making some areas less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Highway 67 is closed; follow alternative directions provided by the park to reach different areas.
  • Prepare for limited cell service; plan your route and communications in advance.
  • Check the park's website for the latest updates on trail and facility closures.
  • Remember to pack essentials for outdoor activities, including water and sun protection.
  • Respect wildlife and natural habitats by staying on designated trails and observing park regulations.
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