Group Camp, Battle Lake, MN

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans seeking an immersive, natural, and dedicated space for their next large outdoor gathering, the Group Camp at Glendalough State Park near Battle Lake is a premier destination. Located in the picturesque Otter Tail County, this group site provides a truly secluded and spacious setting perfect for family reunions, scout troops, youth organizations, or any large circle of friends looking to connect with nature without the interruption of traditional drive-in camping traffic. The Group Camp is specifically designed for tent-only camping, fostering a more communal and traditional outdoor experience while still providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay. It’s nestled in a beautifully shaded area of mature oak trees, offering a rustic feel combined with convenient access to some of the park's most cherished features, including pristine lakes and winding Battle Creek.

Glendalough State Park itself is a unique Minnesota gem, known for preserving nearly 2,000 acres of land and over nine miles of undeveloped lakeshore across five lakes, sitting right in the transition zone between prairie and northern hardwood forest. The Group Camp allows your party to take advantage of this preserved landscape, putting you within easy walking distance of both the quiet, non-motorized Annie Battle Lake—a designated "Heritage Fishery"—and the recreational opportunities available on Molly Stark Lake. It is an ideal basecamp for exploring the park’s extensive trail system and engaging in various water activities that define the classic Minnesota camping trip.

Location and Accessibility

The Group Camp is situated within the expansive and scenic Glendalough State Park, just outside the charming town of Battle Lake in west-central Minnesota. The general park address is 25287 Whitetail Lane, Battle Lake, MN 56515, USA, and the Group Camp itself is pinpointed near the approximate GPS coordinates of 88CH+PV, Battle Lake, MN 56515, USA, placing it specifically along Battle Creek, which runs between Molly Stark and Annie Battle Lakes. This location is easily accessible from major state and county highways leading into the Battle Lake area.

Access to the Group Camp is unique, contributing to its secluded nature. Campers are permitted to drive in and drop off their equipment directly at the site, which is a significant convenience for large groups managing a lot of gear. However, once unloading is complete, vehicles must be parked in a nearby designated parking lot. This keeps the campsite free of vehicular traffic, enhancing the peaceful and natural atmosphere—a key feature appreciated by local users. Furthermore, the camp’s strategic positioning provides a short, easy walk to key day-use facilities like the Molly Stark Lake picnic area and swimming beach, making daily excursions effortless.

Services Offered

The Group Camp at Glendalough State Park is equipped with a selection of dedicated services to accommodate gatherings of up to approximately 40 people, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable group camping experience. These services focus on the essentials for rustic, traditional group camping:

Vault Toilets: The campsite features its own dedicated vault (pit) toilets, offering immediate restroom access, although full modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers are available a short distance away near the park's Trail Center (seasonal operation for showers).
Hand-Pump Water Source: A dedicated hand water pump is available at the campsite for convenient access to potable water.
Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables (generally four are provided) are available throughout the large camping area, ensuring ample seating and food prep space for large groups.
Fire Rings: Multiple fire rings (typically four) are installed, allowing groups to have multiple campfires simultaneously for cooking or evening gatherings.
Gear Carts: Though it is a drive-in drop-off site, the proximity to other areas is enhanced by available carts (as noted in customer reviews) to help transport gear, particularly for accessing nearby facilities like the beach.
Dedicated Parking: Nearby parking is provided for all group members after equipment drop-off, maintaining the tranquility of the campsite itself.
Proximity to Day-Use Area: The camp is just a short walk from the Molly Stark picnic and swim beach area, providing easy access to a sandy beach and ADA accessible fishing pier.

Features / Highlights

What makes the Glendalough Group Camp an exceptional choice for Minnesotan groups is a collection of features that blend seclusion, nature, and recreation:

Seclusion and Space: The camp is strategically located in its own distinct area, separated from the main cart-in campground, providing a level of privacy and space ideal for larger groups.
Old-Growth Shade: The site is heavily shaded by mature oak trees, offering natural relief on hot summer days and a classically beautiful wooded atmosphere.
Waterside Location: The camp is situated right along Battle Creek, the charming stream that connects the park’s chain of lakes, offering scenic views and easy access for exploring by canoe or kayak.
Access to Multiple Lakes: Campers have walking access to both the tranquil, non-motorized Annie Battle Lake (perfect for quiet canoeing and "Heritage Fishing" for large panfish) and Molly Stark Lake (featuring the swimming beach and boat ramp for non-motorized and electric-motor boating).
Paved Bike Trail Connection: The park features a paved trail loop, the Glendalough Trail, which is perfect for biking, jogging, or walking and connects to the nearby town of Battle Lake.
Historic Park Context: Glendalough State Park, formerly a private retreat for the Minneapolis Tribune, offers historical interpretation at the Glendalough Lodge and a unique story of land preservation.

Contact Information

Since the Group Camp is managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of Glendalough State Park, all inquiries, and reservations should be directed to the park office.

Address: 25287 Whitetail Lane, Battle Lake, MN 56515

Phone: 218-864-0110 (Glendalough State Park Office - Note: Different parks may use different numbers, but this is the primary park number found publicly)

Reservations: Reservations for the Group Camp are highly recommended and can typically be made a year in advance through the Minnesota State Park reservation system.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Glendalough State Park Group Camp is uniquely suited for Minnesota residents looking for an authentic and convenient group camping experience. Its location in Otter Tail County, a regionally significant recreation area often referred to as 'Lakes Country,' makes it a prime getaway destination that is still manageable to reach from the Twin Cities and other major population centers in the state. For local families, youth groups, and friends, it offers the perfect balance of rugged, tent-only camping and accessibility to modern park amenities like nearby showers and flush toilets (seasonally). The dedicated, spacious, and shaded area means your large party can enjoy its own space and make noise without disturbing smaller, neighboring campsites. Most importantly, the Group Camp places Minnesotans directly within the heart of the state’s most beloved natural activities—fishing on a Heritage Fishery, paddling a chain of clear lakes, and walking or biking scenic trails through restored prairie and hardwood forests. It embodies the best of the Minnesota outdoor tradition, providing a secluded, memory-making hub for your entire group.