Picnic Point County Park

For Minnesotans looking for a vibrant and active lakeside camping experience, Picnic Point County Park in Lake Benton, MN, is a destination that offers "a lot going on." Situated at 2461 Co Rd 103, Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA, this large county park is renowned for its expansive setting and direct access to the beautiful Lake Shaokatan. It's a place where outdoor recreation takes center stage, providing a fantastic backdrop for family vacations, fishing trips, or simply a relaxing escape into nature.

Picnic Point County Park provides a dynamic environment with diverse camping options, from sites with essential hookups to more traditional tent camping areas. While the park is a hub of activity, offering amenities like a beach, playground, and excellent fishing opportunities, it's worth noting that some areas are designated for seasonal campers, which is a common practice in popular lakeside parks across Minnesota. Despite a minor hiccup one camper encountered regarding site clarity, the overwhelming sentiment is that this is a "beautiful place" to enjoy the natural splendor of western Minnesota. The park's appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities, making it a beloved spot for locals to create cherished memories amidst breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the lake.

Picnic Point County Park is beautifully situated at Co Rd 103, Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA. This address places it directly on the shores of Lake Shaokatan, a picturesque lake that provides the perfect backdrop for a quintessential Minnesota camping experience. Lake Benton, the charming town nearby, is located in Lincoln County, in the southwestern part of Minnesota, making the park an accessible destination for residents throughout the region and beyond.

For those traveling by RV or with trailers, access to Picnic Point County Park is generally straightforward. Co Rd 103 is a county road, typically well-maintained, ensuring a relatively smooth journey to the park entrance. While a review mentioned a slight initial confusion regarding site availability, the park itself is large and designed to accommodate various types of camping. The specific directions provided by Lincoln County are helpful: the park is located 8 miles north of Lake Benton on US Hwy 75, then 3 miles west on Lincoln County Hwy 15, and finally 1 mile north. This detailed guidance ensures visitors can navigate directly to the park without difficulty.

The park's location offers a fantastic balance of natural seclusion and proximity to local amenities. While campers can immerse themselves in the lakeside environment, the town of Lake Benton is just a short drive away, providing access to groceries, supplies, and other services should the need arise. The ease of access combined with its stunning lakeside setting makes Picnic Point County Park a highly desirable and convenient destination for Minnesotans seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.

• Campsites with Water and Electricity: The park offers 30 campsites equipped with both water and electrical hookups, providing essential conveniences for RV and trailer campers.

• Sites without Hookups: For those who prefer a more rustic experience or tent camping, sites without hookups are also available.

• Three Camping Areas: The campground is divided into three distinct areas, offering different settings and potentially different experiences for campers (though clarification on reserved vs. open areas is advised).

• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach is available, allowing campers to cool off and enjoy the waters of Lake Shaokatan.

• Playground Equipment: Families with children will appreciate the presence of playground equipment, providing entertainment for younger campers.

• Bathhouse with Showers: The park features a bathhouse with showers, offering convenient facilities for personal hygiene, a crucial amenity for any campground.

• Boat Launch: Direct access to Lake Shaokatan is provided via a boat launch, making it easy for campers to put their boats, kayaks, or canoes on the water for fishing or recreation.

• Fish Cleaning Shed: For anglers, a dedicated fish cleaning shed is available, providing a convenient and clean space to prepare their catch.

• RV Dump Station: An RV dump station is on-site, allowing RV campers to easily dispose of wastewater before departing.

• Shelter House: The park has at least one shelter house, which can be a great spot for group gatherings or finding shade.

• Seasonal Camping Options: Certain areas are designated for seasonal camping (May 1 – October 15), offering long-term stays with full hookups.

• Overnight Camping Rates: Daily rates are available for sites with electricity, no electricity, and tents, ensuring options for various camping preferences.

• Reservation by Phone: While not explicitly detailed, Lincoln County Parks often offer reservations by phone, and some sites may be first-come, first-served for overnight. It is best to call to clarify current reservation policies, especially given the mention of seasonal spots.

• Stunning Lakeside Location on Lake Shaokatan: The premier highlight of Picnic Point County Park is its magnificent setting directly on Lake Shaokatan. This provides campers with unparalleled access to breathtaking views of the lake, including spectacular sunrises and sunsets that illuminate the Minnesota sky. The lakeside location is perfect for those who dream of waking up to the sounds of the water and enjoying immediate access to aquatic activities.

• Abundant Fishing Opportunities: Lake Shaokatan is known for its "pretty good fishing," making the park a dream destination for anglers. With a dedicated fish cleaning shed and a boat launch, campers have everything they need to enjoy a successful day on the water, targeting local species.

• Family-Friendly Amenities, Including a Beach and Playground: Picnic Point County Park is designed with families in mind. The presence of a swimming beach provides a safe and fun area for children and adults to enjoy the water, while the playground equipment offers hours of entertainment for younger campers. These features contribute to a dynamic and engaging environment for all ages.

• Diverse Camping Options: The park caters to a wide range of camping preferences, offering 30 campsites with water and electricity hookups for RVs and trailers, as well as sites without hookups for a more traditional tent camping experience. This versatility ensures that nearly every camper can find a suitable spot.

• Spacious Campground with Distinct Areas: Described as a "large campground with a lot going on," the park is thoughtfully divided into three different camping areas. While understanding the layout might require initial clarification, this design allows for varied camping experiences, from bustling family zones to potentially quieter spots.

• Essential Facilities for Comfort: The park provides crucial amenities such as a bathhouse with showers and an RV dump station. While one review noted potential cleanliness issues with bathrooms, the provision of these facilities is essential for a comfortable stay and indicates the park's commitment to basic camper needs.

• Proximity to Lake Benton: The nearby town of Lake Benton offers convenient access to any supplies or services campers might need, combining the tranquility of nature with the practicality of local amenities.

As a county-managed park under Lincoln County, Minnesota, Picnic Point County Park primarily operates on established daily and seasonal rates rather than frequent, fluctuating promotions seen at private commercial campgrounds. The core "offer" is its competitive and accessible pricing for a range of camping options.

Based on available public data from Lincoln County Parks, the following rates apply for overnight camping:

• Electricity Sites: $30 per night

• No Electricity Sites: $25 per night

• Tents: $20 per night

Additionally, the park offers seasonal camping options (May 1 – October 15) for those looking for longer-term stays:

• Seasonal Full Hookup (if available in certain areas): $1800 per season (this rate likely applies to specific designated seasonal areas, as mentioned in customer reviews).

While formal "promotions" like "buy two nights, get one free" are uncommon for county parks, the overall affordability of these rates, especially for a lakeside park with diverse amenities like a beach and playground, can be considered a consistent value offer.

For the most current rates, seasonal availability, and any specific reservation details, it is always recommended to contact Lincoln County Parks directly. They can confirm any unique offers or changes to their pricing structure.

For all inquiries, reservations, or to get the most up-to-date information about Picnic Point County Park, please use the following contact details for Lincoln County Parks:

Address: Co Rd 103, Lake Benton, MN 56149, USA

Phone: (507) 368-9350

Mobile Phone: +1 507-368-9350

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially when planning your visit, to confirm site availability, understand the distinctions between the three camping areas (particularly regarding seasonal vs. overnight spots), and inquire about any specific reservation policies. Given the feedback about potentially reserved seasonal spots, a direct call will ensure a smooth check-in process and help you find the perfect site for your stay at this popular Minnesota county park.

For Minnesotans, Picnic Point County Park in Lake Benton is an excellent local choice that perfectly encapsulates the diverse outdoor experiences our state offers. Its suitability for residents stems from its comprehensive amenities, beautiful lakeside setting, and a lively atmosphere that caters to various recreational interests.

Firstly, its location on Lake Shaokatan provides the quintessential Minnesota lake experience right in our backyard. We cherish our lakes for recreation, and Picnic Point offers direct access to swimming, fishing, and boating, making it an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation without the need for extensive travel. The breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the water are a natural spectacle that locals will deeply appreciate.

Secondly, the park's diverse offerings appeal to a wide range of local campers. Whether you prefer the convenience of an RV site with water and electricity, the simplicity of a non-hookup spot, or pitching a traditional tent, Picnic Point accommodates all. The presence of a swimming beach and a playground makes it particularly appealing for families with children, ensuring there's "a lot going on" to keep everyone entertained. The fishing opportunities, complete with a fish cleaning shed, are a significant draw for local anglers looking to enjoy their favorite pastime.

While some past feedback suggested areas for improvement in clarity regarding site reservations and restroom maintenance, the overall consensus remains that this is a "beautiful place." As locals, we understand the charm of a bustling county park and often bring our own solutions to enhance the experience. The affordability of the rates, especially for a lakeside park with so many features, makes it an accessible option for many Minnesota families and outdoor enthusiasts.

In essence, Picnic Point County Park offers Minnesotans a vibrant, activity-filled, and budget-friendly lakeside camping experience. It’s a place where communities come together, memories are made, and the natural beauty of Lake Shaokatan can be fully embraced, making it a truly suitable and beloved local destination.