Upper Campground

For Minnesotans who cherish spending time outdoors, the Upper Campground at Camden State Park in Lynd, Minnesota, is a well-known destination. As part of the expansive Camden State Park, this specific campground offers a dedicated space for campers to set up their temporary homes amidst the natural beauty of southwest Minnesota. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a mix of tranquility and access to recreational activities, reflecting the classic Minnesota camping experience.

The Upper Campground is characterized by its "private treed spots," which, as noted by a past visitor, contribute to a pleasant camping atmosphere. While some aspects, like unpaved roads and the design of some sites, might present challenges, the overall setting within a beloved state park ensures access to a wide array of natural attractions and amenities. This campground offers a chance to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse oneself in the unique landscapes of Camden State Park, from its lush woodlands to its open prairies and the meandering Redwood River. It's a place where memories are made around campfires and adventures unfold on scenic trails, making it a valuable option for locals seeking an authentic Minnesota outdoor escape.

The Upper Campground is located within Camden State Park, specifically situated at 1897 Camden Park Road, Lynd, MN 56157, USA. This address places it firmly in Lyon County, in the picturesque southwest region of Minnesota. The location is a significant draw for local Minnesotans, as it offers a convenient escape into nature without requiring excessive travel time.

Access to Camden State Park, and subsequently the Upper Campground, is generally straightforward. The park is easily reachable via State Highway 23, a well-maintained roadway that connects Marshall (a larger nearby city) to other regional towns. This accessibility is crucial for campers, especially those towing RVs or trailers, as it ensures a smooth and less stressful journey. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors to the Upper Campground area, which is located south of the park office and across the railway from the horse camp. While some internal roads are noted as unpaved, potentially becoming muddy after rain, the overall accessibility to the park itself is a strong point. The proximity to Marshall, roughly ten miles away, also means that campers have access to necessary supplies, gas stations, and other services should the need arise during their stay. This blend of natural seclusion with practical accessibility makes the Upper Campground a desirable choice for a convenient outdoor adventure.

The Upper Campground at Camden State Park provides a range of services designed to make camping comfortable and enjoyable for its visitors. These services are typical of state park campgrounds and aim to meet the needs of various camping styles.

• Campsites: The Upper Campground features a selection of drive-in sites, including several pull-through sites, and notably, 20 electric sites. Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate, perfect for outdoor cooking and campfires. The sites are described as "private treed spots," offering a sense of seclusion.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: For convenience, flush toilets and hot showers are available seasonally within the Upper Campground. These facilities are also wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for a wider range of visitors. During the off-season, vault toilets are typically available.

• Potable Water: Water spigots are located throughout the campground, providing easy access to drinking water for campers.

• Sanitary Dump Station: A central dump station is available within Camden State Park for RV and trailer campers to dispose of their wastewater.

• Firewood and Ice Sales: For added convenience, firewood and ice are typically available for purchase at the park office, ensuring campers have essentials for their stay.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally permitted in the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and owners adhere to park regulations regarding pet waste and behavior.

While a review noted a single dump station and unpaved roads, it's important to understand these within the context of state park operations which balance user experience with natural preservation.

The Upper Campground's appeal is significantly enhanced by the broader features and highlights of Camden State Park itself, offering a diverse array of natural attractions and recreational opportunities.

• Private, Treed Campsites: As highlighted by a positive review, the Upper Campground offers "private treed spots," providing a sense of seclusion and natural ambiance, which is highly valued by many campers. This natural shielding helps create a more intimate outdoor experience.

• Spring-Fed Swimming Pond and Beach: A unique gem within Camden State Park is its spring-fed swimming pond, complete with a sandy beach and a bathhouse. This provides a refreshing and natural swimming experience, especially enjoyable during the warmer months.

• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts miles of diverse trails suitable for hiking and biking. These trails wind through varied landscapes, including wooded river valleys (along the Redwood River), open prairies, and offer opportunities to climb to scenic overlooks like the Dakota Valley Lookout.

• Fishing Opportunities: Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Redwood River, which is a designated trout stream, or in Brawner Lake, known for bass and bluegill. The park also features a fishing pier on Brawner Lake.

• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The diverse habitats within the park provide excellent opportunities for observing local wildlife and various bird species, appealing to nature enthusiasts and photographers.

• Year-Round Activities: While specific campground facilities may be seasonal, Camden State Park itself offers year-round recreation, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, allowing for varied experiences throughout the year.

• Proximity to Horse Camp: For equestrian enthusiasts, the Upper Campground's proximity to the Horse Camp means easy access to dedicated horse trails, even if staying in the Upper Campground itself.

As a component of the Minnesota State Park system, the Upper Campground at Camden State Park does not typically feature "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. However, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers value-driven programs and pricing structures that benefit all Minnesotans who frequent their state parks. These can be considered a form of ongoing "offer" for the public:

• Annual State Park Vehicle Permits: For visitors who plan to visit Camden State Park or other Minnesota State Parks multiple times within a year, purchasing an annual vehicle permit is a cost-effective option. The standard annual permit is $35, with a second vehicle permit costing $26, and a special rate of $12 for handicapped visitors. This provides unlimited access to all state parks for 12 months from the purchase date.

• Daily Vehicle Permits: For shorter or single visits, a daily vehicle permit is available for $7. While a fee, it's a transparent and standard charge for park access.

• Online Reservation System: The DNR's centralized online reservation system is a valuable service that allows campers to view real-time availability and book campsites, including those in the Upper Campground, up to 12 months in advance. This ensures a secured spot, especially during peak season, and streamlines the planning process.

• Free Park Days: The Minnesota DNR occasionally designates "Free Park Days" throughout the year. On these specific dates, the vehicle permit fee is waived for all visitors, offering an excellent opportunity to explore Camden State Park without the entry cost (though camping fees still apply).

• Educational and Interpretive Programs: State parks frequently host free or low-cost educational programs, guided hikes, and interpretive events that enhance the visitor experience and add value to a camping trip without significant additional charges.

For the most current information on park fees, reservation policies, or any specific statewide initiatives, it is always best to consult the official Minnesota DNR website for Camden State Park.

For inquiries, reservations, or to obtain more detailed information about the Upper Campground and Camden State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1897 Camden Park Road, Lynd, MN 56157, USA

• Park Office Phone: (507) 872-7031

• Email: camden.statepark@state.mn.us (as provided by the Minnesota DNR)

• Centralized Reservations: Minnesota State Parks operate a centralized reservation system. Bookings for campsites, including those in the Upper Campground, can typically be made online via the Minnesota DNR website or by calling their toll-free reservation line (often 866-857-2757).

Direct contact with the park or through the official reservation system is the most reliable way to confirm availability, understand specific site details, and ensure a smooth camping experience.

For Minnesotans seeking a convenient and authentic outdoor experience, the Upper Campground at Camden State Park offers a highly suitable option. Its location in Lynd, southwest Minnesota, provides a relatively accessible retreat from more populated areas, allowing locals to maximize their time enjoying nature rather than traveling long distances. This convenience is a significant factor for weekend getaways or even spontaneous day trips, enabling frequent connections with the outdoors that are so vital to the Minnesota way of life.

The Upper Campground, with its "private treed spots" and availability of electrical hookups, caters to various camping preferences, from tenters seeking natural seclusion to RVers desiring basic amenities. While there are noted considerations like unpaved roads and a single dump station, these are often typical of state park settings that prioritize natural preservation. Locals understand that these minor trade-offs contribute to maintaining the park's rustic charm and extensive natural features. The park's diverse highlights, including the unique spring-fed swimming pond, miles of multi-use trails for hiking and biking, and excellent fishing opportunities in the Redwood River and Brawner Lake, offer something for every member of a family or group.

Choosing to camp at the Upper Campground in Camden State Park also means supporting the Minnesota State Park system, which plays a crucial role in conserving our state's natural heritage. It's a way for Minnesotans to reinvest in the very landscapes that define our identity, ensuring these beautiful spaces remain accessible for generations to come. Ultimately, a stay at the Upper Campground provides a genuine, accessible, and enriching Minnesota outdoor adventure right in our own backyard.