Sunrise Campground

For Minnesotans dreaming of a comfortable lakeside escape where the beauty of nature is complemented by convenient amenities, Sunrise Campground at Lake Shetek State Park in Currie, MN, offers an ideal destination. As one of the premier camping areas within this beloved state park, Sunrise Campground is renowned for its full hookup RV sites, making it a particularly attractive option for those who prefer modern conveniences while immersing themselves in the great outdoors. It’s a perfect spot to wake up to glistening sunrises over Minnesota's largest southwestern lake, spend days full of adventure, and enjoy peaceful evenings under the vast prairie sky.

Lake Shetek State Park itself is a jewel in Minnesota's park system, offering a rich tapestry of water recreation, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance. Sunrise Campground distinguishes itself by providing 32 spacious sites, each thoughtfully equipped with water, sewer, and 50-amp electrical hookups. This "glampground" feel ensures that campers can enjoy the natural beauty without sacrificing comfort, making it suitable for everyone from seasoned RV travelers to families looking for an easy and enjoyable camping experience.

The positive experiences shared by visitors highlight the campground's pleasant atmosphere, the enjoyment of its trails, and the convenience of its facilities. While the park is a public space, the focus of Sunrise Campground remains firmly on providing excellent recreational opportunities and a welcoming environment for all. It truly allows Minnesotans to fully embrace the joys of lakeside living, whether that means an early morning fishing trip, a leisurely day of boating, or simply relaxing at your comfortable site.

Sunrise Campground is perfectly situated within Lake Shetek State Park, located at The Lakes, MN 56123, USA. More specifically, the park's main office and general access point are at 1 Armstrong Ln, Currie, MN 56123. This prime location places the campground directly on the shores of Lake Shetek, which holds the distinction of being the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota, found within Murray County.

The park's geographical position offers excellent accessibility for residents across Minnesota. It is well-connected by state and county highways, facilitating a straightforward drive from various population centers. For those traveling from Minneapolis-St. Paul, the journey to Lake Shetek typically takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, making it a viable option for a rewarding weekend getaway or an extended vacation. From Rochester, campers can expect a drive of about 2.5 to 3 hours, while from Mankato, it's a relatively short 1.5 to 2 hours. These manageable travel times allow Minnesotans to spend less time on the road and more time enjoying the serene beauty of the lake and park.

Upon entering Lake Shetek State Park, clear signage guides visitors to Sunrise Campground, which is known for its open setting and easy access to the lake. The park operates daily from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., with a ranger station typically available during business hours for smooth check-ins and information. The nearby town of Currie, though small, provides essential services and supplies, ensuring convenience for campers during their stay.

Sunrise Campground, as a key component of Lake Shetek State Park, is specifically designed to offer a comfortable and amenity-rich camping experience, particularly for RVers. Here's a breakdown of the services you can expect:

• Full Hookup RV Sites: A significant highlight of Sunrise Campground is its 32 sites equipped with full hookups. This means each site provides 50-amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections, offering the ultimate convenience for recreational vehicles of all sizes, including "big rig friendly" options.

• Spacious Sites: Visitors often comment on the large, spacious nature of the sites at Sunrise Campground, providing ample room for your RV, a tent, and outdoor living space, ensuring a comfortable and uncrowded feel even during busy periods.

• Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: The campground boasts well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers. These facilities are generally clean and conveniently located, contributing significantly to a pleasant camping experience.

• Centrally Located Picnic Shelters: Sunrise Campground features two convenient picnic shelters, some with solar panels, that provide excellent gathering spaces. These are perfect for group meals, playing games, or simply relaxing in the shade, making it easy to "feed the masses" or meet fellow campers.

• RV Dump Station: A seasonal dump station is available within Lake Shetek State Park for easy wastewater disposal for all RVers.

• Potable Water Access: Fresh drinking water spigots are readily accessible throughout the campground.

• Firewood for Purchase: Firewood is available for purchase within the park, typically at the park office, ensuring you have what you need for enjoyable campfires.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome at Sunrise Campground and on park trails, provided they are kept on a 6-foot leash and owners adhere to cleaning up after them. Pets are not permitted in park buildings or on swimming beaches.

• Equipment Rentals: While not directly at Sunrise Campground, the wider Lake Shetek State Park offers rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats, and paddleboats, providing easy access to water recreation.

Sunrise Campground's allure is deeply intertwined with the exceptional features and activities offered by Lake Shetek State Park:

• Prime Lakeside Location: Situated directly on Lake Shetek, the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota, Sunrise Campground offers direct access to the water. Many sites boast beautiful lake views, making for picturesque mornings and evenings.

• Spectacular Sunrises: As its name implies, the campground is perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking sunrises over Lake Shetek. This daily natural spectacle is a major draw for early risers and photographers.

• Full Hookup Convenience: The abundance of full hookup sites (water, sewer, electric) is a significant highlight, offering unparalleled convenience for RV campers. This feature elevates the camping experience to a "glamping" level, allowing for extended comfortable stays.

• Excellent Water Recreation: Lake Shetek is a haven for water enthusiasts. Campers can enjoy:

  • Fishing: The lake is teeming with walleye, northern pike, crappie, and more, offering fantastic fishing opportunities. An accessible fishing pier is also available.
  • Boating & Paddling: Ample space for powerboating, and rentals for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats provide options for serene paddles or exhilarating rides.
  • Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach near the campground offers a safe and refreshing spot for all ages to cool off.

• Extensive Trail System: The park features over 14 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Campers can explore restored prairie, wooded areas, and even connect to the paved Casey Jones State Trail, which extends into the nearby town of Currie.

• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching: The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer and various waterfowl. Lake Shetek is particularly famous for its white pelicans, from which the lake derives its Ojibwe name, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities.

• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, the rural setting of Lake Shetek State Park provides exceptional conditions for stargazing on clear nights.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The spacious sites, access to recreational activities, and overall peaceful atmosphere make Sunrise Campground ideal for families seeking quality time together outdoors.

Sunrise Campground, being an integral part of the Minnesota State Parks system, adheres to the fee structure and policies set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). As such, promotional "deals" in a commercial sense are not typically offered.

However, the value comes from the high quality of facilities and the access to the park's natural amenities. The fees for campsites at Sunrise Campground, specifically the full hookup sites, typically range from $30 to $45 per night. These rates represent excellent value for the comprehensive services provided (electric, water, sewer hookups).

It is important to remember that all motor vehicles entering a Minnesota State Park are required to display a vehicle admission sticker. This can be purchased as a daily permit for $7 or an annual permit for $35, which offers unlimited entry to all Minnesota State Parks for a full year. For frequent visitors to state parks, the annual pass is a cost-effective choice.

The Minnesota DNR does offer specific reductions for certain groups, such as half-priced campsite fees Sunday through Thursday nights for Minnesota residents with physical disabilities who hold a Federal Access Pass.

For the most accurate and current information on fees, availability, and to make reservations, it is strongly recommended to visit the official Minnesota DNR website for Lake Shetek State Park or to contact the park office directly. Booking well in advance, especially for full hookup sites during peak seasons, is highly advisable due to their popularity.

Sunrise Campground (within Lake Shetek State Park)

Address: The Lakes, MN 56123, USA (Park office/main access at 1 Armstrong Ln, Currie, MN 56123)

Park Office Phone: (507) 763-3256

(The provided phone number (602) 571-6989 and mobile number +1 602-571-6989 may be an alternative contact or a past listing; the official DNR park office number is typically the most reliable for state park inquiries.)

Minnesota State Parks and Trails Reservation Line: 866-857-2757

For specific inquiries about Sunrise Campground's availability, site details, or any questions about park conditions, contacting the Lake Shetek State Park office directly is the best approach. Reservations for state park campgrounds are primarily handled through the Minnesota DNR's online reservation system or the statewide reservation phone number.

For Minnesotans, Sunrise Campground at Lake Shetek State Park is an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable camping destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience right in their home state. Its appeal for locals stems from its ability to provide a comfortable, yet authentic, Minnesota outdoor experience.

The primary reason for its suitability is the abundance of full hookup RV sites. This feature is a significant draw for local RV owners and families who prefer the comforts of home while enjoying the outdoors. It means less hassle with utilities and more time spent relaxing and engaging in park activities, making it an ideal choice for multi-day stays or quick weekend getaways.

Beyond the amenities, Sunrise Campground offers direct access to Lake Shetek, the largest lake in southwestern Minnesota. This opens up a world of water-based recreation – from excellent fishing for walleye and northern pike to enjoyable boating, paddling, and swimming at the designated beach. These activities are core to the Minnesota summer experience, and having them readily available at the campground enhances its local appeal.

The park's well-maintained trail system, easily accessible from the campground, invites hikers and bikers to explore the diverse landscapes of restored prairie, wetlands, and wooded areas. The opportunity to spot iconic Minnesota wildlife, particularly the white pelicans, adds a special touch to any visit.

In essence, Sunrise Campground provides Minnesotans with a convenient, comfortable, and activity-rich environment to connect with nature. It’s a place where local families can create enduring memories, enjoy stunning sunrises over the lake, and experience the best of what Minnesota's state parks have to offer, all without having to travel far from home.