Lower Campground

For Minnesotans seeking a quintessential outdoor experience, the Lower Campground within Camden State Park near Lynd offers a fantastic and accessible retreat. Nestled in the picturesque Redwood River Valley, this campground provides a delightful blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and well-maintained facilities. Unlike some more remote or rustic options, Lower Campground offers the comforts that make camping enjoyable for families and individuals alike, all while immersing you in the diverse landscapes of Southwest Minnesota. It’s a cherished spot for those who appreciate clean surroundings, refreshing swimming opportunities, and a network of trails waiting to be explored.

Minnesota is rightly celebrated for its abundant natural beauty, from the northern forests to the prairie lands. State parks play a crucial role in making these landscapes accessible for recreation, and Camden State Park is a prime example of this commitment. The Lower Campground, situated within the park, caters to campers who desire a balance between experiencing the wild and having convenient amenities. Reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities and the easy access to key attractions, underscoring the park's dedication to providing a high-quality camping experience.

What truly sets Lower Campground apart is its unique environment. Located in the denser woods near the Redwood River and a popular swimming pond, it offers a distinctly different vibe from the park's more open Upper Campground. This wooded setting provides welcome shade and a more secluded feel, often preferred by those looking to relax amidst trees. The proximity to the "swimming hole" (the spring-fed swimming pond) is a major draw, especially during Minnesota's warm summers, providing a refreshing escape for all ages.

Moreover, the surrounding Camden State Park is a hub of activity. Visitors to the Lower Campground gain immediate access to a wide array of hiking, biking, and even horse trails. This integration with the park's extensive trail system means that every day can bring a new adventure, from exploring the wooded river valley to venturing out into the restored prairie. It's this combination of natural charm, convenient facilities, and abundant recreational opportunities that makes Lower Campground a top choice for many Minnesotans planning their next outdoor escape.

The Lower Campground is located within Camden State Park, situated at 1897 Camden Park Road, Lynd, MN 56157, USA. Lynd is a small community in Lyon County, Southwest Minnesota. This location makes the campground an accessible destination for residents across the region, including those from larger towns like Marshall, which is connected to the park by the paved Camden Regional Trail.

Accessibility to Lower Campground is straightforward, as it's part of a well-established Minnesota State Park. The park is easily reachable via major county and state roads. Once inside Camden State Park, clear signage will direct visitors to the Lower Campground area. This section of the campground is typically located north of the park office, nestled closer to the Redwood River and the popular swimming beach.

The drive to Camden State Park offers a glimpse into Minnesota's agricultural heartland, transitioning into the unique river valley and prairie landscape of the park. While it offers a feeling of escape, it remains conveniently close to the town of Lynd for any last-minute supplies or emergencies. The layout of the campground itself features a main road with a loop at the end, making navigation easy for campers with RVs or trailers. This thoughtful design contributes to a hassle-free arrival and setup, allowing guests to quickly settle into their outdoor adventure.

• RV and Tent Sites: The Lower Campground accommodates both RVs and tents, offering a variety of site types to suit different camping preferences.
• Electrical Hookups: Many sites within the Lower Campground offer electrical hookups (30-amp and 50-amp options are typically available in state parks) for RVs, providing power for appliances and charging devices.
• Flush Toilets and Showers: Clean restroom facilities with flush toilets and showers are available, generally from mid-May to mid-October during the main camping season. This is a highly valued amenity, ensuring comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Vault Toilets: During the off-season, or in more rustic sections, vault toilets are available.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided within Camden State Park, offering a convenient way for RVers to empty their waste tanks before departure.
• Potable Water: Access to potable (drinking) water is available, typically through communal spigots within the campground loops.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase at the park office or contact station, ensuring campers have access to approved wood.
• Camp Store/Gift Shop: A contact station at the park entrance usually features a small gift shop, offering souvenirs and essential items.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online through the Minnesota DNR website or via phone, allowing campers to secure their preferred site in advance.
• ADA Accessible Sites: Some sites within the Lower Campground are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

• Spring-Fed Swimming Pond and Beach: A major highlight, the park features a refreshing spring-fed swimming pond with a sand beach and a historic bathhouse built from local stone. This "swimming hole" is a popular spot for cooling off and family fun.
• Extensive Trail System: Camden State Park offers approximately 16 miles of hiking trails (ranging from prairie walks to rugged river valley paths), 5 miles of mountain biking trails, and 10 miles of horse trails. The Lower Campground provides convenient access to many of these trails.
• Redwood River Access: The campground is situated near the Redwood River, a designated trout stream, offering opportunities for fishing (stocked with brown trout) and enjoying the river's flow.
• Varied Scenery: The park boasts a diverse landscape, from dense woods in the river valley (where Lower Campground is located) to open prairie with wildflowers, offering continuously changing beautiful panoramas throughout the seasons.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a swimming pond, a playground near the lower campground, and plenty of open space, it's an ideal spot for families with children.
• Clean Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Historical Significance: Camden State Park is an important archaeological area, and 13 buildings and structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the bathhouse.
• Paved Regional Trail: The Camden Regional Trail is a roughly 10-mile paved trail connecting the park to Marshall, offering excellent opportunities for cycling.
• Shaded and Wooded Sites: The Lower Campground is known for its sites located in denser woods, providing shade and a more natural, secluded feel compared to the open prairie sites of the Upper Campground.

As part of the Minnesota State Parks system, Lower Campground at Camden State Park primarily operates under standard state park fees and regulations. Specific "promotions" in a commercial sense are not typically offered. However, the state park system provides inherent value through its well-maintained facilities and access to natural resources at reasonable rates.

• Daily Park Permit: A daily park vehicle permit costs $7.00.
• Annual Park Permit: For frequent visitors to Minnesota State Parks, an annual permit costs $35.00 (or $26.00 for a second vehicle permit, $12.00 for a handicapped permit), providing significant savings over multiple daily visits.
• Camping Fees: Camping fees are separate from the park permit and vary based on the site type (e.g., non-electric, electric). For reference, non-electric sites might be around $24.00 per night, and electric sites around $34.00 per night, though these rates can change.
• Reservations: While not a promotion, the ability to make online or phone reservations 24 hours a day ensures campers can secure their preferred sites, especially during peak season.
• Free Park Days: The Minnesota DNR occasionally designates "Free Park Days" when vehicle permits are not required, offering a special opportunity to visit the park without the daily entrance fee. It's advisable to check the DNR website for these specific dates.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, permit requirements, and any potential special programs or events, it is always best to consult the official Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for Camden State Park or contact the park office directly.

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or inquire further about Lower Campground at Camden State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1897 Camden Park Road, Lynd, MN 56157, USA
• Park Phone: (507) 872-7031
• State Park Reservations (Toll-Free): (866) 857-2757 (Available 24 hours a day for online or phone reservations)
• Email: camden.statepark@state.mn.us

The park staff are generally very helpful and can provide specific details about site availability, amenities, and recreational opportunities within the park.

For Minnesotans, the Lower Campground within Camden State Park near Lynd is an exceptionally suitable and highly appealing destination for a myriad of outdoor pursuits. Its strong appeal to locals stems from its combination of accessibility, diverse recreational opportunities, and a commitment to providing a clean and family-friendly environment.

Firstly, its location in Southwest Minnesota makes it a manageable drive for many residents across the state, offering a tangible escape into nature without requiring an extensive journey. This convenience is particularly valuable for weekend getaways or spontaneous camping trips. The specific appeal of the Lower Campground, with its wooded sites nestled near the Redwood River and the iconic "swimming hole," provides a classic Minnesota summer experience. This spring-fed swimming pond is a unique draw, offering a safe and refreshing place for families to cool off and create cherished memories.

Secondly, the integration of the campground within Camden State Park means immediate access to an impressive network of trails. Whether you're a hiker, mountain biker, or enjoy horseback riding, the park's diverse landscapes – from forested river valleys to sprawling prairies – offer endless exploration. This makes it an ideal spot for active Minnesotans who want to combine camping with their favorite outdoor activities. The presence of flush toilets and showers, which are consistently praised for their cleanliness, adds a layer of comfort that many locals appreciate, especially when camping with families.

In essence, Lower Campground at Camden State Park provides a comprehensive and enjoyable camping experience that resonates deeply with the spirit of Minnesota. It's a place where natural beauty is easily accessible, recreational opportunities abound, and the simple joys of outdoor living are emphasized. For any Minnesotan seeking a reliable, clean, and engaging camping destination that offers both relaxation and adventure, this campground stands out as a prime choice.