County Park

- Dawson, MN 56232

For Minnesotans seeking a convenient, amenity-rich, and beautifully situated spot for their next RV trip or weekend escape, the County Park Campground in Dawson, MN, offers an exceptional experience. While the name is modest, the park's offerings are anything but. It is a true local "gem," as one customer eloquently described, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and essential modern comforts. This city park campground is a testament to the strong community focus on providing excellent recreational spaces for both residents and visiting travelers.

Located strategically in Western Minnesota, Dawson’s campground serves as an ideal base camp. It connects visitors directly to the region's rich outdoor landscape, including the scenic Lac qui Parle River and an extensive network of local trails. It is the kind of welcoming, well-maintained space that embodies the friendly spirit of Minnesota's small towns—clean, spacious, and focused on providing a relaxing environment. Whether you are pulled in by the history of the area, the call of the river, or simply the need for a beautiful and quiet overnight stay, this County Park provides a memorable and refreshing experience.

The positive sentiment, captured simply as "Beautiful" and highlighting the "open spaces," "river runs through it," and "history to explore," reflects the campground's appeal. It's a place where you can easily find your own peace while having the necessary amenities for a comfortable, modern camping trip.

The County Park Campground in Dawson, MN, often operates under a couple of names, reflecting its important role in the city's park system. It is recognized as a quiet, picturesque destination situated either as "Gnome Park Campground" or "Veterans' Park Campground," both managed by the City of Dawson and known for their superb accessibility and comprehensive full-hookup sites. This campground is more than just a place to park your RV; it’s a gateway to local history and nature, situated along the tranquil Lac qui Parle River.

The focus here is on ease and relaxation. Campers benefit from full utility services, clean restrooms, and the unique advantage of being adjacent to key city recreational facilities, including a municipal Aquatic Center and sports courts. This combination of being nestled in nature—with trails and a river nearby—while retaining access to modern amenities and urban activities, makes it a highly practical and desirable spot for Minnesota campers. It provides a peaceful escape without sacrificing convenience.

Located in the heart of Western Minnesota, the County Park Campground in Dawson, MN, is highly accessible for travelers utilizing U.S. Highway 212. Dawson is a thriving community positioned on the Lac qui Parle River, making the campground a naturally beautiful spot.

The primary address for the area is:

Dawson, MN 56232, USA

The campground is strategically placed either on the east edge of town (Gnome Park) or along the Lac qui Parle River on the southwest side (Veterans' Park), depending on the specific location of the camping spots, but both are central to the city’s amenities. This excellent positioning means Minnesotans from the Twin Cities, Willmar, or Marshall can reach the location easily. The proximity to the river not only enhances the scenic quality but also offers immediate access to water-based activities and the new riverside walking/biking trail. Easy navigation and proximity to the city center for supplies and dining enhance its appeal as a stress-free camping destination.

The County Park Campground is designed to offer a full-service experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for both short-term and extended stays:

• Full Hookups: All available sites provide a complete utility connection, including electricity (often featuring new 50 amp service for larger rigs), water, and sewer connections.
• Restrooms and Showers: A dedicated, clean bathroom and shower house is conveniently located adjacent to the camping area.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump site station is available nearby, simplifying RV waste disposal for departing campers.
• Online Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is provided, often shared with the adjacent public pool area, allowing campers to stay connected.
• Site Variety: The city offers a variety of camping options, with a total of ten to sixteen available spots across its park system, accommodating both RV/trailers and traditional tent campers.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open seasonally, running from mid-April to mid-October, weather permitting.

What truly makes Dawson's County Park Campground stand out are the surrounding park features and local attractions that create a well-rounded recreational opportunity:

• River and Trail Access: The Lac qui Parle River runs through the area, with a beautiful new riverside walking/biking trail accessible right from the campground, offering scenic routes for exercise and relaxation.
• Proximity to City Recreation: Campers are steps away from a wide range of municipal facilities, including a new outdoor Aquatic Center, tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, and a softball complex.
• Disc Golf and Golf: The campground is situated next to a popular disc golf course, and the 9-hole Dawson Golf Club is nearby, catering to both casual and serious golfers.
• Historical Exploration: The city itself encourages visitors to explore its history, which includes several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, such as the Commercial Bank Building and the Carnegie Library.
• Community Charm: The park on the east edge of town is home to the 'Gnomes,' unique displays celebrating outstanding citizens, adding a touch of unique local charm and history for families to explore.
• Clean, Open Sites: Visitors consistently describe the park as well-maintained, with open spaces that contribute to a peaceful and uncluttered camping environment.

For reservations, especially during peak times like the annual Riverfest weekend, it is recommended to contact the City of Dawson offices.

Address: Dawson, MN 56232, USA

Phone: (320) 769-2154 (City Office - for Campground information)

For Minnesota residents, the County Park Campground in Dawson is an exceptional destination that ticks all the boxes for an ideal local getaway. Its suitability stems from the perfect balance it strikes between providing a natural, scenic outdoor experience and immediate access to modern urban amenities. You get the tranquility of camping along the Lac qui Parle River, the chance to explore hiking trails, and the open spaces beloved by local campers, without sacrificing comfort.

For families, the adjacent Aquatic Center, playground, and various sports courts offer endless entertainment, making it far more than just a place to sleep. For RV enthusiasts, the promise of full hookups, including the robust 50 amp service, and a convenient dump station translates to a hassle-free vacation. The city’s commitment to providing clean facilities, as reflected in customer reviews, ensures that locals can expect a high standard of quality.

Ultimately, the Dawson County Park Campground is a reliable, feature-rich, and friendly environment. It is a place where locals can truly relax, connect with the natural beauty of Western Minnesota, and feel proud of the community-supported recreational options available to them. It is highly recommended as a weekend retreat or a strategic stop on a broader Minnesota road trip.

County Park

Dawson, MN 56232, USA