Lake Marion Campground, Brownton, MN

For Minnesotans seeking a tranquil and well-maintained escape into nature, Lake Marion Campground offers an idyllic setting on the beautiful shores of Lake Marion in Brownton, MN. As a cherished part of the McLeod County Park system, this campground provides a clean, quiet, and family-friendly environment that caters to both RV and tent campers looking to unwind and connect with the outdoors. Unlike some larger, more bustling campgrounds, Lake Marion is known for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly relax and enjoy the serene beauty of a Minnesota lakefront.

Lake Marion Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to various outdoor activities, from fishing and boating on Lake Marion to exploring walking trails and enjoying family picnics. The park's commitment to being well-kept and providing spacious sites ensures a comfortable experience, making it a favored spot for many local residents. This article will provide a detailed overview of Lake Marion Campground, covering its strategic location and accessibility, the services and amenities it offers, unique features that set it apart, and why it stands out as an ideal camping destination for Minnesotans seeking a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Lake Marion Campground is conveniently located at 11655 MN-15, Brownton, MN 55312, USA. This prime address places it on the southeast corner of Lake Marion in Collins Township, near the charming community of Brownton. Its position directly on Highway 15 provides excellent accessibility, making it an easy drive for campers coming from various parts of Minnesota. The campground is approximately six miles south of Hutchinson and six miles north of the Highway 15 and Highway 212 junction, offering a convenient balance between natural seclusion and proximity to local amenities.

The accessibility of Lake Marion Campground is a significant advantage for local Minnesotans. Being near Hutchinson means campers have relatively quick access to grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and other essential services should they need them during their stay. This allows for a comfortable camping experience where you can enjoy the peace of the lake without feeling entirely isolated from conveniences. Furthermore, the surrounding area of McLeod County offers additional recreational opportunities and small-town charm to explore. This strategic location truly provides the best of both worlds: a serene lakeside camping experience that's still within easy reach of urban necessities and other regional attractions, making it an ideal spot for a local getaway.

Services Offered

Lake Marion Campground, managed by McLeod County Parks & Recreation, provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors.

Campsites: The campground offers a variety of campsites, including RV/Electric sites and Tent/Non-Electric sites. These sites are noted for being spacious and level.
Water Hookups: Electric sites typically include water hookups. While some reviews mention low water pressure, these connections are generally available for convenience. Campers should be aware that water hookups may be shared between sites.
Electrical Hookups: RV sites come with electrical hookups (ranging from 20 AMP to 50/30/20 AMP service), accommodating various RV needs.
Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides restrooms with showers. While some reviews suggest they could use updating, they are generally described as clean and spacious, including a "family" shower option.
Sanitary Dump Station: For RV campers, a sanitary dump station is available on-site for convenient waste disposal.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a large fire ring, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires.
Firewood Sales: A generous amount of firewood is often available for purchase on-site, simplifying campfire preparations.
Boat Access and Fishing Piers: Direct boat access to Lake Marion and dedicated fishing piers provide easy opportunities for water-based activities like fishing and boating.
Picnic Shelters: Several picnic shelters are available for day use or for group gatherings, offering shaded areas for meals and relaxation.
Playground: A playground area is available for children, providing a dedicated space for recreation and fun within the park.
Walking Trails: The park features walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the natural surroundings of Lake Marion Park.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome in the campground but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and personally attended at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Features / Highlights

Lake Marion Campground stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a highly desirable camping destination for Minnesotans, emphasizing comfort, cleanliness, and direct access to natural recreation.

Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The primary highlight is its stunning location directly on Lake Marion. This offers picturesque views, easy access for swimming (at the beach), boating, and excellent fishing opportunities for species like walleye, northern pike, crappies, and bullheads.
Clean, Quiet, and Well-Maintained: Multiple reviews consistently praise the campground for being "clean, quiet and well maintained." This dedication to upkeep ensures a pleasant and relaxing environment for all campers. The gravel pads and nicely mowed grass areas contribute to its tidy appearance.
Spacious and Level Sites: Campers appreciate that the sites are "spacious and level" and "far enough away from each other that you didn't feel like you were on top of each other." This provides a sense of privacy and comfort often sought in camping.
Generous Firewood: The availability of "big fire rings and generous amount of firewood" is a practical highlight, making it easy for campers to enjoy traditional campfires without the hassle of bringing their own wood or finding it off-site.
Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, picnic shelters, a swimming beach, and open spaces for activities, the campground is well-equipped to entertain families and children, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Managed by McLeod County Parks: Being a McLeod County Park, the campground benefits from public oversight and resources, which often contributes to its high standards of maintenance and accessibility for local residents.
Various Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, walking trails, and simply relaxing by the lake, offering a diverse range of activities for all interests.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public park managed by McLeod County, Lake Marion Campground generally operates on a fixed rate schedule, rather than offering frequent promotions or special discounts. However, understanding their current rates and reservation policies is key for planning your trip.

Current rates for the 2025 season are:

RV/Electric Sites: $37 per night
Tent/Non-Electric Sites: $27 per night
Picnic Shelters: $58 per day

Reservations for Lake Marion Campground typically open on March 1st for the upcoming season (which runs from May 9th to October 19th in 2025). It's highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for summer and peak times, as sites can fill quickly. Reservations are made online through the McLeod County Parks & Recreation website. There are specific cancellation policies in place: a $10 administration fee is forfeited if cancelled 14 days or more prior to arrival, and the first night's fee plus a $10 administration fee is forfeited if cancelled fewer than 14 days prior. Credit/debit card fees of 3% or higher will apply, charged by the processor. For the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, and policies, always refer to the official McLeod County Parks & Recreation website or contact them directly.

Contact Information

For detailed information, reservations, or any inquiries about Lake Marion Campground, you can contact the McLeod County Parks & Recreation department, which manages the park.

Address: 11655 MN-15, Brownton, MN 55312, USA

Phone: (320) 484-4334

Mobile Phone: +1 320-484-4334

You can also visit the official McLeod County Parks & Recreation website for online reservations, campground maps, policies, and brochures related to Lake Marion Park.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lake Marion Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for local Minnesotans seeking a serene, well-maintained, and accessible outdoor escape. Its location in Brownton, directly on the scenic Lake Marion, offers a peaceful environment that feels far removed from daily stresses, yet remains conveniently close to nearby towns like Hutchinson for any necessary supplies or services. For residents of McLeod County and surrounding areas, this campground provides an ideal setting for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation.

The consistent praise for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and spacious, level sites truly highlights its suitability for those who prioritize comfort and relaxation in their camping experience. The availability of both RV and tent sites, coupled with amenities like clean restrooms and showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and readily available firewood, caters to a wide range of camping preferences. Furthermore, the direct access to Lake Marion for fishing, boating, and swimming, along with on-site walking trails and a playground, ensures there are ample activities for all ages. Lake Marion Campground embodies the essence of Minnesota's natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of peaceful lakeside living and convenient recreational opportunities, making it a highly desirable destination for locals to create lasting outdoor memories.