Lee Lake Long-Term Campground; No Vacancies

- 823 270th St S, Hawley, MN 56549

Introduction / Overview

For Minnesotans who dream of a permanent summer getaway without the cost and upkeep of a cabin, Lee Lake Long-Term Campground in Hawley, MN, offers the perfect solution. Nestled in the picturesque lake country just east of the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, this destination is far more than a simple overnight stop—it’s a cherished, seasonal-only community where generations of families have spent their summers.

Established in 1981, this "Ma-and-Pa style," privately owned campground has cultivated a famously friendly and family-oriented vibe. The current owners, Justin and Amanda Halvorson, have continued this tradition, earning praise from campers for their respectful, kind, and attentive management. The focus here is on long-term stays (May 1 to September 30), allowing campers to establish deep roots and a true feeling of a second home in a beautiful, natural setting.

While a small number of daily RV and tent sites (five RV, two tent) are sometimes available, the primary function of Lee Lake is to serve its 92 seasonal lot holders, providing an array of amenities that foster relaxation, recreation, and community. With hundreds of mature trees, breathtaking rolling views, and direct access to quaint Lee Lake, this campground is a secluded haven that remains conveniently close to major services.

Location and Accessibility

Lee Lake Long-Term Campground is ideally situated for residents of West Central Minnesota and the Fargo-Moorhead area, offering a quick escape to the countryside.

Address:

823 270th St S, Hawley, MN 56549, USA

Located just a few miles east of Hawley, MN, the campground provides easy access to Highway 10, a major artery connecting the region. This proximity makes it a seamless and short commute for locals:

Conveniently Close to Fargo/Moorhead: The location is a significant benefit for metro-area residents looking to minimize driving time for weekend or seasonal stays.

Near Detroit Lakes: You’re also close to the resort-town amenities, events, and larger lakes of Detroit Lakes, offering a wide range of nearby entertainment and dining options.

Secluded Country Setting: Despite its accessibility, the campground is situated on rolling hills and surrounded by farmland and woods, providing the quiet, natural environment people seek when they head "Up North."

The property sits directly on Lee Lake, offering immediate water access for boating and fishing, and features several smaller ponds throughout its scenic acreage.

Services Offered

Lee Lake Long-Term Campground is fully equipped to support comfortable, extended stays, blending essential services with fun recreational amenities.

RV Site Hookups: The campground offers an extensive number of seasonal lots, with most providing Water and Electric hookups, and a significant portion (34 lots) offering full hookups (Water, Electric, Sewer).

Dump Station: Sanitary dump stations are conveniently located on the grounds to service all RV units.

Laundry Facilities: A coin-operated laundry facility is available, a key convenience for long-term residents.

Modern Shower Houses: Clean and spacious shower buildings are provided for guest use, ensuring basic amenities are well-maintained.

Food Service: A brand-new, modern lodge offers exclusive services for campers, including a small restaurant/coffee shop that serves homemade goods like pizza, cookies, and caramel rolls, along with a variety of ice cream.

Watercraft Access: Guests have lake access with a boat launch and rentals, including kayaks and paddle boats, for enjoying Lee Lake.

Cell Reception: Campers often note good cell reception (e.g., with Verizon) and access to local TV channels, ensuring you’re connected when you want to be.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Lee Lake Long-Term Campground apart is its focus on community and a broad range of recreational activities that appeal to all ages.

The "Seasonal-Only" Community: With over 90 seasonal lots, the environment is peaceful, well-established, and fosters a friendly, second-family atmosphere that guests cherish—many having camped here for decades.

On-Site Swimming Pool: A clean, outdoor swimming pool is available for cooling off during the hot Minnesota summers.

Recreational Variety: The property includes several organized activities and areas for fun, such as two separate playgrounds, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and a frisbee golf course.

Nature and Scenery: The large lots are set amidst hundreds of mature trees (oaks, elms, maples, etc.), offering large, grassy spaces and walking trails that highlight the breathtaking hills and views of the property.

Attentive Owners: Campers consistently praise the new owners, Justin and Amanda, for treating everyone like family, ensuring a friendly, kind, and respectful environment for all.

Future Enhancements: The owners are dedicated to continuous improvement, with plans underway for a campground-run dock system and fishing pier to enhance the experience on Lee Lake.

Contact Information

Given the seasonal and long-term nature of this campground, vacancies are rare, and it is often necessary to be placed on a waiting list. Prospective seasonal campers should call directly for the most current information regarding lot availability and rates.

Address:

823 270th St S, Hawley, MN 56549, USA

Phone:

(218) 937-5306

Please note that all inquiries regarding seasonal openings or daily site rentals should be made via phone or email, as the property is typically closed to unauthorized walk-throughs during the off-season (October 1–April 30).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lee Lake Long-Term Campground is uniquely suited to Minnesota locals, particularly those in the western and central parts of the state, because it provides the stability and comfort of a vacation home with the flexibility of an RV park. For residents of the Fargo-Moorhead area, the short, easy drive means you can be at your "cabin" nearly every weekend without the hassle of a long, stressful commute.

The core appeal lies in its commitment to the seasonal camping model. This creates a reliable, welcoming community environment, free from the constant turnover of nightly campgrounds. Families can return year after year, forging lifelong friendships and creating deeply embedded summer traditions, all while enjoying full-service amenities like a pool, lake access, and a lodge that feels like a shared community center. Despite a minor, temporary note on the water's natural mineral taste, the overwhelmingly positive sentiment from long-time patrons highlights that Lee Lake Long-Term Campground is a well-manicured, family-safe, and highly social summer retreat, embodying the friendly, nature-loving spirit of Minnesota's best lake experiences. It's the perfect, hassle-free spot for local families to truly relax and make lasting memories.

Lee Lake Long-Term Campground; No Vacancies

823 270th St S, Hawley, MN 56549, USA