The best camping in Monson Lake State Park, MN
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Discover Monson Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.
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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Monson Lake State Park adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Monson Lake State Park
Monson Lake Campground
1. Monson Lake Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Monson Lake State Park
Swift Falls County Park
1. Swift Falls County Park
98%
(21)
9.2mi from Monson Lake 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
2. Wold Ranch
95%
(11)
14mi from Monson Lake 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
🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway
3. 🌿 Oak Crest RV Getaway
100%
(12)
22mi from Monson Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Oak Crest RV Sites | Near Glenwood, MN
Enjoy a peaceful country stay just minutes from Glenwood and Grove Lake.
Each back-in RV site includes:
* 50-amp electric
* Water hookup (May 1–Nov. 30)
* Free Wi-Fi
Property amenities:
* Nature walking trail
* One hammock
* Countryside swing
* Wildlife viewing
Please note:
* Three back-in RV sites on the property.
* A private tiny home is also located on the property and may be occupied during your stay.
* One RV and one vehicle per site.
* Registered guests only.
* No parties or unapproved visitors.
Nearby:
* Grove Lake
* Lake Minnewaska
* Rolling Forks Vineyards
* Downtown Glenwood
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Woods
4. The Woods
99%
(71)
28mi from Monson Lake 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
Campfires
Picnic table
Pearsons Century Farm
5. Pearsons Century Farm
99%
(145)
35mi from Monson Lake State Park · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Homesteaded more than 100 years ago this farm is somewhat stuck in time. Once this was a prosperous dairy operation. Location location location, this place is my slice of heaven on earth. Located in the corner of 4 townships on an extremely quiet road. Our farm now raises grass fed beef and wooly pigs pastured along driveway along with the usual cast of a farm, dogs, cats, chickens, guineas and goats
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
6. Alexandria Lakes Area Camp
98%
(41)
35mi from Monson Lake 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.
Your campsite includes a fire pit and picnic table, perfect for cozy evenings and shared meals under the stars. You have access to the entire 2.5 acer property, so pick a spot that suits you.
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
Campfires
Picnic table
The Auntie's Grove at Moonstone
7. The Auntie's Grove at Moonstone
99%
(78)
36mi from Monson Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Moonstone Farm is a perennial polyculture (no annual crops, lots of diversity) on the bluffland of the Upper Minnesota River Valley.
A family-based farm specializing in grass-fed organic beef production, we also maintain a vineyard, an edible forest, occasional farmstore, farmstay guest cottage and a full-shade camping area, the Auntie's Grove within walking distance of our pond, little beach, water points and restrooms.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Andes RV Park
8. Andes RV Park
97%
(17)
41mi from Monson Lake 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
Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
9. Kobi’s Backyard Getaway
98%
(22)
42mi from Monson Lake 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
Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup
10. Lower Elk Lake - Full RV Hookup
98%
(60)
45mi from Monson Lake 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
Creekwood Acres, LLC
11. Creekwood Acres, LLC
99%
(116)
45mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site
We purchased the property in 2003 in order to escape the city life and be closer to nature. Over the years we have developed our sustainable farm, raising grass-fed cattle, chickens, and various other animals over the years. We also breed Bernese Mountain Dogs, so you'll see some of our pack wandering the property. We work hard to maintain practices that heal the land and preserve it for the future. No chemicals, hormones, antibiotics, pesticides or herbicides are used here. We raised our four children here and have made many memories together as we learned to farm, build and enjoy our land. We continue to create and build towards a long-term vision, creating a haven for artisans with self-sufficient living in mind.
Welcome to our inviting custom built cottage. It is located on our property, approximately 300' from on our home on our 55 acre land plot, located 10 minutes outside of St. Joseph, MN. We are very near St. John's University and the College of St. Benedict. Hiking trails located on our property as well as nearby County parks and St. John's University. We are 6 miles from the Wobegon Trail (76 miles long) which is great for biking, roller blading, walking and running.
Come explore Creekwood Acres which is host to a great deal of wild life as well as sustainably raised animals with a process we call rejuvenative farming. Wander through the woods and listen to the birds, watch monarch butterflies, our cattle and hear the, frogs, crickets and occasionally distant coyotes. The Watab Creek runs through the property which consists of fields, forest and a pond.
Our cozy cottage was built by our family using lumber sawn on our property. There are two double beds up in the loft accessible by ladder and one queen size sofa sleeper (very comfortable!) on the main level . A wood burning stove keeps the cottage cozy in cooler weather. There is a bathroom with flushing toilet and shower. Electricity keeps the cottage aglow and runs a refrigerator, microwave, sound system and fans. Also available for your convenience, an apartment size range and kitchen sink.
Enjoy a fire in a private fire ring near the cottage. Firewood available for purchase (for exterior fire ring). Enjoy a wood-fired sauna upon request. The sauna has been known to get quite hot!
Theres so much more to come and your current support to help with our reinvestment in Creekwood Acres is so greatly appreciated!!!
Side Note: We truly strive to accommodate everybody's needs and wishes. The more we host, the more we understand that some people just want to be left to enjoy a quiet weekend while others love to engage and develop a connection. We enjoy engaging in conversation and developing connections and yet completely respect the desire for others privacy to the utmost degree. We try to let the guest set the stage and expectations based on the first greeting and any encounters. Please feel free to state your hopes and wishes.
Also..., we are passionate about our farming methods with a strong sense of homesteading. If you are interested in learning more about regenerative farming, we are happy to chat! Our hope is to bring people back to the land in a holistic, spiritual, and conscientious manner.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Private secluded camp
12. Private secluded camp
100%
(3)
12mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Next to the slough with open water. Lots of wildlife especially in the spring. There are three spots to choose from, two are more secluded and not really meant for large campers. But the bigger spot is really large.
Pets
Campfires
Canary Beach Resort
13. Canary Beach Resort
28mi from Monson Lake State Park · 12 sites
Welcome to
Canary Beach Resort
Canary Beach RV Resort has officially joined the Unhitched family! Unhitched Management has stepped in to lead operations for this premier lakeside destination. Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Villard in Minnesota, Canary Beach RV Resort is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking both relaxation and adventure. We are honored to take the wheel for this next chapter and preserve the summer traditions you love while steering toward an even brighter future
Canary Beach Resort
Get Unhitched
We’re bringing our Safe, Clean, and Friendly promise to life with enhanced standards and a renewed focus on building a real community.
Playground
Boat Ramp
Laundry
Bathhouses
Volleyball
Dump Station
Dog Park
WiFi
Beach
Canary Beach RV Park offers three comfortable ways to stay along the water in Villard. Choose a seasonal site, book an RV site, or settle into a cabin for an easy lakeside getaway. However you stay, you will find a welcoming place built for relaxation, family time, and days by the beach.
Life at Canary Beach is peaceful, family-friendly, and centered around the lake. Enjoy the beach, boat ramp, playground, volleyball, unleashed dog park, WiFi, and easy access to the water for a full day outside. With laundry, bathhouses, and a dump station on-site, your stay feels simple, comfortable, and easy to enjoy.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
The Reset
14. The Reset
100%
(1)
28mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site
Whether you're looking for a women's retreat, men's group getaway, backdrop for a photo shoot, or a place for team-building events, this property has it all! With a peaceful lake and tranquil surroundings, it's the perfect place to relax and reset.
Everyone who has stayed here says the same thing: there's something magical about this place. Come experience it for yourself!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
RV There Yet
15. RV There Yet
79%
(12)
38mi from Monson Lake 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
16. The Motel & Motor Lodge
38mi from Monson Lake State Park · 16 sites · RVs, Lodging
Just steps from the Central Lakes Trail and within walking distance of downtown Osakis, our Trailside Hookup Sites are designed to be an easy, comfortable place to settle in.
Whether you're exploring the Alexandria lakes area, biking the trail, or road-tripping through central Minnesota, we're conveniently located just off Interstate 94, making it simple to pull in, unwind, and enjoy a slower pace for a while.
On-Site Amenities:
• High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Private-use bathrooms with individual showers (coming soon!)
• Pet-friendly RV sites
• Fully virtual check-in process
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Big Birch Slice Of Pie
17. Big Birch Slice Of Pie
41mi from Monson Lake 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
Lakefront or Woodland
18. Lakefront or Woodland
45mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Lakefront
Enjoy the beauty of camping right along the lake where you can wake up to the sunrise
Woodland
Tucked away among the trees are Woodland campsite offers a peaceful, private escape, surrounded by nature.
Pets
Campfires
Native Prairie Buffalo Site
19. Native Prairie Buffalo Site
45mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site
Carved out over 12,000 years ago by the Iowa glacial lobe, this land rests within the easternmost wintering area of the North American buffalo herd. This is a rare and untouched native prairie site near known Indigenous artifacts.
It is also just 25 minutes from world-class healthcare facilities and shopping in Alexandria, MN, or just 9 minutes from Osakis, MN. Head of the Lakes Resort, known for its generous portions of French fries, is also just a short drive away.
Walk to the nearest access point on the Long Prairie River, or travel just a couple of miles down Fairfield Drive—also a scenic walk—to Lake Osakis, one of the most heavily stocked walleye lakes in Minnesota. Battle Point also offers a nearby fishing pier.
Drive just 5 minutes northeast on County Road 1 to an easy tubing access point, then enjoy a couple of relaxing hours floating down the lazy river back toward the campsite.
The site is rustic, with no utilities or outhouse. Pack out what you pack in. Parking is available at the entrance only, and no motorized vehicles are allowed in the campground.
The western boundary is marked by a white poly fence, while the rest of the property extends to the river. See the photos for the boundary outline.
Pets
Campfires
Bruce's RV spot
20. Bruce's RV spot
100%
(1)
46mi from Monson Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to Bruce's RV Spot, a quiet and convenient place to stay in central Minnesota. Surrounded by scenic countryside, lakes, and outdoor recreation, this peaceful RV site is perfect for travelers looking to relax, explore the area, or enjoy a comfortable overnight stop.
Whether you're fishing, sightseeing, or simply unwinding, you'll find a welcoming basecamp for your Minnesota adventure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Caela
1 week ago
Tent
This place is absolutely idyllic! I really enjoyed staying here. I would love to come back if I’m in Minnesota again.
See more
Jeslyn
2 weeks ago
With pets
this is our 3rd time being back at the cabin & it just keeps getting better & better! we actually got a bit of rain this year & it made for a fun ride into the woods😂 we had so much fun fishing on the lake & exploring the area. this is such a cool spot to unplug & get away from the outside world. we can't wait to be back!!!💜
See more
Lydia
2 weeks ago
Tent
Audrey and Richard have a beautiful clean place that's just far enough away from the Twin Cities. Sadly, it rained for most of our stay but we were able to hang out in the summer kitchen all day. I brought some games and we packed our lunch. It was a perfect way to spend the day away from it normally hectic weekends.
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Matt
2 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
We always have a great time. Lake, bullfrogs bar, thrift store. We will be back.
See moreNicholas
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great spot! Hosts were super friendly and accommodating. Definitely recommend.
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Ami
3 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
With kids
Excellent site! Quiet, convenient and just what we needed for the bike race weekend. Thanks!
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Leah
3 weeks ago
56 ft travel trailer
With kids
Basic no frills no fuss RV spot that was really easy to park and set up at.
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Michelle Rose
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful park with a clean restroom and hot shower. Highly recommend!
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Aubrey
September 2026
Tent
lovely hideaway spot! walking paths throughout the tree cluster. lots of wildlife: deer, chipmunk, squirrels, butterflies. great sunrise view!!
See moreCara
September 2026
20 ft travel trailer
It’s a great spot right in Alexandria! Easy to find, easy to back in, Scott was a great host and made us feel very welcome! Right between the lakes and still felt like we were out in nature, which is just what we were looking for. So many stars! Thanks so much guys!
See moreAmber
September 2026
20 ft travel trailer
With pets
It was a great stay as usual! Will book again.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
See moreErin
September 2026
Tent
We loved tent camping in The Woods! Michael was an amazing host and was very responsive to any questions we had. It was secluded and so nice to have the space completely to ourselves! We’ve already started planning our next trips there!
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Jorge
August 2026
26 ft travel trailer
Host went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. Close to host home but not as close as we've been to other campers. Host was respectful of our privacy.
See moreGeorge
August 2026
26 ft travel trailer
The host went way beyond to make our stayenjoyable and memorable.
Some reviews said the site was to close to the home. But really it was really no closer than another camper at most camping grounds. We barely saw the owners unless they were asking if we needed more wood or anything else. I admit I was a little nervous at first, but I would and will stay here again.
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Glen
August 2026
20 ft travel trailer
A great secluded campsite . Quiet and picturesque woods with dark sky viewing
Thanks
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Debbie Sue
August 2026
13 ft campervan
This was a Quiet and safe spot a little off the beaten path for a quick stay in our conversion van over night. Pulled in the dark and left before the sun came up.
See moreNathan
August 2026
21 ft travel trailer
I loved the tranquility and the peace & quiet. Plus, the lake view and new dock are very nice.
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Nathan
August 2026
With pets
Great little cabin secluded in the woods by the lake with nice trails to hike. Friendly staff and smooth arrival.
See moreDan
August 2026
20 ft travel trailer
Quiet and peaceful stay, hosts never bothered us, perfect 2 night stay near Alexandria, close enough to town, far enough to feel like your not!
See more
Patrick
August 2026
Tent
With pets
Fun place to stay. Not super quiet/private if that's what you're looking for but it was a nice property and the farm animals were a fun bonus :)
See moreMonson Lake State Park camping 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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