Big Island Campground, Albert Lea, MN

For Minnesotans seeking an immersive outdoor experience, Big Island Campground, located within the picturesque Myre-Big Island State Park in Albert Lea, offers a fantastic escape into nature. This campground provides a diverse range of camping options, from RV and tent sites to even a cozy camper cabin, catering to various preferences for outdoor adventure. Situated on a large, 116-acre island in Albert Lea Lake, the campground is enveloped by a lush maple and basswood forest, providing ample shade and a sense of privacy that campers often cherish.

Big Island Campground is particularly praised for its natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, even during the colder months. Reviews highlight "Great big trees!" and "Spaced out camp spots," indicating a focus on a natural, uncrowded camping experience. One camper enthusiastically shared, "A great one night winter camp out!! Great walking /cross country skiing trails. Electric hook up." This speaks to the campground's versatility and appeal across seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Minnesota's changing landscapes.

The park is a haven for wildlife, especially birdwatchers, as it attracts numerous species of migratory waterfowl. The presence of Albert Lea Lake adds another layer of recreational opportunity, from fishing and boating to simply enjoying the serene lakeside views. Whether you're planning a summer getaway or a peaceful winter retreat, Big Island Campground offers a tranquil and engaging environment for those looking to connect with Minnesota's natural splendor.

Big Island Campground is situated at 19499 780th Avenue, Albert Lea, MN 56007, USA, placing it firmly within the beautiful Myre-Big Island State Park. This location is approximately three miles southeast of the city of Albert Lea, in Freeborn County, Minnesota. The park's distinct setting on an island within Albert Lea Lake provides a unique sense of natural seclusion while remaining highly accessible.

Albert Lea, a city in southern Minnesota, offers all the necessary amenities and services for campers. From grocery stores and restaurants to gas stations and emergency services, everything you might need is just a short drive away. This convenient proximity means campers can easily resupply or enjoy a meal out without sacrificing the peaceful atmosphere of the campground.

For those traveling from further afield within Minnesota or from neighboring states, the accessibility of Myre-Big Island State Park is excellent. Albert Lea is located at the intersection of Interstate 35 (I-35) and Interstate 90 (I-90), two major interstate highways that traverse the state. This makes the campground a remarkably easy destination to reach from various parts of Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metropolitan area (Minneapolis and St. Paul), which is approximately an hour and a half to two hours north via I-35. The straightforward highway access ensures a smooth journey for campers, allowing them to quickly transition from travel to relaxation and outdoor adventure.

The integration of the campground within a state park also means that it benefits from well-maintained roads and clear signage, further enhancing its accessibility for all types of vehicles, including RVs and trailers (which can be up to 60 feet in length). This combination of natural beauty and convenient access makes Big Island Campground a highly desirable location for campers across Minnesota.

Big Island Campground, as part of Myre-Big Island State Park, offers a range of services designed to enhance the camping experience for its visitors. These services cater to both comfort and outdoor activities.

Campsites: The campground features 35 densely wooded campsites, with 17 offering electric hookups and 18 non-electric sites. Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering. The sites are noted for being well-spaced, offering privacy.
Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides access to both vault toilets (which are praised in reviews for being clean and even smelling like coconut) and flush toilets. Hot showers are also available, though access to showers may be seasonal (typically late April to late October).
Potable Water: Drinking water is accessible within the campground, ensuring campers have a reliable source for hydration and cooking.
Dump Station: A trailer waste (dump) station is available within the broader Myre-Big Island State Park campground, open from late April to late October. An alternative dump station is accessible year-round at the Trails Truck Stop, three miles from the park.
Firewood Sales: Firewood bundles are available for sale at the park office. The park adheres to Minnesota state law regarding firewood, prohibiting non-local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Recreational Equipment Rentals: The park office offers rentals for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, providing easy access to water activities on Albert Lea Lake.
Nature Store/Gift Shop: A nature store or gift shop is available at the park, offering convenience for any forgotten essentials or souvenirs.
Hiking and Skiing Trails: Direct access to miles of walking, hiking, and cross-country skiing trails is a primary service, allowing campers to explore the diverse landscapes of the park.
Year-Round Camping: Both electric and non-electric sites are available year-round, accommodating winter campers, although bathrooms may be closed during colder months.

It's important for campers to be aware that while electric hookups are offered, they may not be available at all sites. Additionally, while the park strives for cleanliness, campers should note the seasonal availability of flush toilets and showers, with pit toilets being the alternative during off-season. Vehicle permits are required for entry and can be purchased at the park office or entrance kiosk.

Big Island Campground, nestled within Myre-Big Island State Park, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination for Minnesota locals:

Dense, Shaded Campsites: The campground is characterized by "nice big trees" and a "maple and basswood forest," providing abundant shade and a natural, private setting for each of its 35 sites. This dense woodland offers a true immersion in nature, enhancing the camping experience.
Well-Spaced Sites: Campers appreciate the "Spaced out camp spots," which ensures a sense of privacy and tranquility, allowing for a more peaceful retreat compared to campgrounds where sites are tightly packed.
Extensive Trail System: A major highlight is the access to miles of well-maintained trails. These include excellent walking, hiking, and cross-country skiing trails, allowing visitors to explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and grasslands. The Blazing Star State Trail also connects the park to Albert Lea for extended biking or walking.
Clean Facilities (Including Vault Toilets): Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, even the pit toilets, which one reviewer charmingly noted "smell like coconut." This attention to cleanliness significantly enhances the comfort of rustic camping.
Beautiful Natural Setting: The campground's location on a large island in Albert Lea Lake, surrounded by a diverse forest, offers stunning natural beauty. It's a haven for birdwatchers, with many species of migratory waterfowl visible, and also home to deer and other wildlife.
Year-Round Accessibility: Big Island Campground is open year-round, allowing Minnesota residents to enjoy camping in all seasons, from the vibrant colors of fall to the serene snowscapes of winter, with specific accommodations like electric hookups for colder weather.
Access to Albert Lea Lake: The proximity to the 2,600-acre Albert Lea Lake provides opportunities for various water activities including fishing (for northern pike, walleye, bass, panfish, carp, and bullheads), canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Rental equipment is available at the park office.
Camper Cabin: For those seeking a less rustic experience, a cozy log camper cabin is available on Big Island, equipped with electricity and conveniently located near restrooms, providing a comfortable getaway option.
Proximity to Albert Lea: While offering a natural escape, the campground is just a short drive from Albert Lea, providing easy access to essential supplies, dining, and other city amenities.
Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, providing the basic necessities for outdoor cooking and dining.

These features combine to make Big Island Campground a highly desirable and functional destination for a wide range of campers in Minnesota.

As a Minnesota State Park campground, Big Island Campground's pricing and any available discounts or promotions are typically governed by the statewide policies of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) rather than individual park-specific offers. Therefore, direct "promotions" in the commercial sense are not usually advertised for specific campgrounds.

However, Minnesota residents may be eligible for various fee reductions and annual passes that can provide savings on camping at Big Island Campground and other state parks. These include:

Minnesota State Park Vehicle Permits: A vehicle permit is required for entry into all Minnesota State Parks. Visitors can purchase a daily permit or an annual permit, which provides unlimited entry for a full year. An annual permit offers significant savings for frequent visitors.
Camping Discounts: While not always explicitly advertised as "promotions," certain groups may qualify for discounts on camping fees. For example, discounts for veterans, seniors, or those with certain disabilities are sometimes available through the Minnesota DNR. It is important to check the official DNR website or inquire directly about eligibility.
Seasonal Availability: While not a "promotion," the year-round availability of camping at Big Island Campground, including electric sites in winter, offers flexibility for off-season camping experiences that might be less crowded and provide a different appeal.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, vehicle permit costs, and any potential discounts or special pass programs applicable to Big Island Campground, it is highly recommended to visit the official Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/reservations) or contact the park office directly. This will ensure you have the most current information for planning your trip.

For inquiries, reservations (for the camper cabin or general park information), or to learn more about camping at Big Island Campground within Myre-Big Island State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 19499 780th Avenue, Albert Lea, MN 56007, USA

Phone: (507) 668-7060

Mobile Phone: +1 507-668-7060

Email: MyreBigIsland.StatePark@state.mn.us (as provided by some sources for general park inquiries)

It is best to contact the park office during regular business hours. When you call, you can inquire about specific campsite availability (especially for electric sites), current conditions of trails and facilities (e.g., bathroom closures in winter), firewood regulations, and any other specific questions you may have to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience. Reservations for campsites can typically be made through the Minnesota DNR's statewide reservation system, which can be accessed online or via phone.

Big Island Campground, situated within Myre-Big Island State Park in Albert Lea, stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Minnesota locals seeking a diverse and enriching outdoor experience. Its primary appeal lies in its unique location on a forested island within Albert Lea Lake, offering a sense of natural tranquility and privacy that is highly valued by campers. The well-spaced, shaded campsites provide a comfortable base, whether you're bringing a tent or an RV.

What truly makes this campground ideal for Minnesotans is its year-round accessibility and the wide array of activities it supports. From extensive hiking and biking trails that wind through varied ecosystems to excellent opportunities for birdwatching and fishing on Albert Lea Lake, there's always something to engage with nature. Even in winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making it a perfect spot for those who embrace Minnesota's colder months.

The convenience of being just a short drive from Albert Lea ensures that essential services and supplies are always within easy reach, offering a practical balance between natural immersion and modern comfort. The consistent praise for clean facilities, including vault toilets, further enhances the overall camping experience. For locals who appreciate beautiful natural settings, diverse recreational opportunities, and the peaceful escape that only a well-maintained state park campground can offer, Big Island Campground is a highly recommended choice for your next Minnesota adventure.