Sandy Lake
4.4096 reviews22205 531ST LANE McGregor, MN 55760
Sandy Lake
$16.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$18.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 for primitive walk-to tent sites to $60 for cabins and group sites with electric hookups. Additional reservation service fees apply based on the method of booking.
About this campground
Nestled where Big Sandy Lake meets the mighty Mississippi River, Sandy Lake Recreation Area beckons families seeking pristine waters and outdoor adventure. This cherished destination combines crystal-clear swimming holes, prime fishing spots, and peaceful boating waters with immaculate facilities that have welcomed generations of visitors. The centerpiece Sandy Lake Dam, standing proud since 1895, serves as both a testament to engineering history and a scenic backdrop for your lakeside memories.
Sandy Lake accommodates a variety of camping styles including tent camping, RV sites, group camping, and a camper cabin. "Eight primitive walk-to tent sites (four of which have electrical hookups), a camper cabin with bunk beds, and a day-use group picnic shelter are also available" highlights this.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history where ancient canoe routes once connected the Mississippi River to distant Lake Superior. These waters carried voyageurs and fur traders through Minnesota's wilderness, their legacy preserved in the on-site museum's fascinating collection of local artifacts. Every paddle stroke on Big Sandy Lake follows the path of centuries-old commerce and exploration that shaped the North Woods.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect camping weather with comfortable temperatures that invite long days on the water and cozy evenings around the campfire. While the warm season creates ideal conditions for outdoor recreation, savvy campers come prepared for nature's tiny aviators – mosquitoes can make their presence known, especially following summer rains when the forest comes alive with new growth.
ElevationPerched in the heart of northern Minnesota's lake country, this recreation area occupies the gentle terrain where forest meets water, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring the region's natural splendor.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Sandy Lake spreads before you as a shimmering reservoir embraced by stands of majestic red and white pines that pierce the sky. The surrounding mixed hardwood forests paint a living canvas that changes with the seasons, while the haunting call of loons echoes across the water. Keep your camera ready – bald eagles soar overhead, black bears amble through the woods, and playful otters splash along the shoreline in this vibrant ecosystem.
Geological RegionWhere Big Sandy Lake spills into its outlet, the landscape tells the story of Minnesota's Mississippi Headwaters Project. This remarkable confluence creates a diverse ecosystem where towering red and white pines stand sentinel over mixed hardwood forests. The rich habitat supports an impressive array of wildlife, from soaring eagles to secretive woodland creatures, all thriving in this carefully preserved slice of northern Minnesota wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include lighting, tent pads, and well-marked paths. "North camp sites have lots of room for your pets and you to relax in" suggests comfort and accessibility.
Sites SizeSites range in size from standard to group accommodations, with many described as spacious. "The sites are very big and level" confirms this.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels are reported, with the north side offering better spacing and privacy than the south side. "The north side of the dam the sites are better spaced, but still pretty open and close to the road" and "South side the spots are much closer together and not much privacy" highlight this.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 45 due to bright street lighting. Sites on the north side are generally more spacious and private.
Best CampsitesWalk-to tent sites (e.g., Tent Site 4) are rated highly for privacy and views. Site 49 is frequently praised for its size and openness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within rolling 30-day periods.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Each site can accommodate sufficient guests
- exact number not specified.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties with ample space. "Beautiful site very big had 4 picnic tables" confirms spacious setups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into north and south sections by the Sandy Lake Dam, accessible via separate vehicle entrances.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to October 14 (reservable season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible, but exact site details and fill patterns are unclear.
Cancellation PolicyGuests can cancel any time before arrival; cancellations after the late window incur fees including loss of first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Sandy Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and cultural programs. "Lots of amenities n beach, multiple boat ramps, docks, and slips," and "Fishing was good even just from the docks" showcase its variety.
Hiking
Short hiking trails are available, offering moderate exploration opportunities. "Day use facilities are intertwined within the campground and contain [...] a short hiking trail" confirms this.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, targeting species such as Northern pike, walleye, smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappies, and catfish. "Fishing was good even just from the docks" highlights user satisfaction.Swimming
A well-maintained sandy beach is available for swimming. "The beach is wonderful with picnic area and campground" and "The swimming beach is large and plenty of sandy area for swimming, sunbathing, or playing" confirm this.Biking
Biking paths are available within the campground. "Appreciated the tar roads for kids to ride bike or to push our 5-month-old in the stroller" provides evidence of biking opportunities.Boating
Boating activities include access points to Big Sandy Lake and Sandy River, with facilities such as boat ramps and docks. "Great spot! Plenty of boat slips to park and camp" emphasizes the suitability for boating.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of bald eagles, loons, otters, and deer. "Areas flooded but still my favorite park. Discovered eagle's nest in park and photographed them" highlights unique experiences.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and playing. "The beach is wonderful with picnic area and campground" reaffirms this.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal educational programs and a museum with historical artifacts are available. "The old lock house has been converted into a free small museum containing historical artifacts from the area" confirms this.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and canoeing are available. "Kayaked the rivers (Sandy and Mississippi). Nice access right from the campground" confirms this.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Certified pest-free firewood required. Campfires allowed within designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours observed; exact times not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a significant hazard during rainy seasons. Some sites face issues with eagle droppings and proximity to wildlife.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and emergency services located in McGregor, MN (13 miles away). Police and ranger services are available within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are available, with loop garbage services praised. "Love the clean restrooms and loop garbage service" indicates user satisfaction.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Big Sandy Lake, the Sandy River, and the Mississippi River.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations, lack of privacy, and maintenance issues such as mowing carelessness and dock conditions are recurring complaints.
HostRangers and campground hosts noted for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
22205 531ST LANE McGregor, MN 55760
Driving directionsTake Highway 65 for 13 miles north of McGregor, Minnesota. Follow 'South Entrance' signs for campsites 1-21, tent sites 1-4, and south group campsite. Follow 'North Entrance' signs for campsites 22-49, tent sites 5-8, north group campsite, and camper cabin. If assistance is needed, follow 'South Entrance' signs to the campground office.
Roads are paved and accessible year-round. Separate vehicle access roads to the north and south sides of the campground. Accessibility issues may arise due to heavy rain or snow.Nearby places
McGregor (13 miles, approximately 20-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in McGregor, MN, approximately 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
96 reviews
Sandy Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, amenities, and variety of activities, while also mentioning issues such as mosquitoes and limited privacy in certain areas. "Fantastic state park extremely well managed" and "Very clean and well maintained campground" showcase overall positive sentiments.
Review Summaries
Based on 96 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the variety of activities, and the friendliness of staff. "The sites are spacious, the facility clean, the play areas looked fun"...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include mosquitoes, limited privacy in certain areas, and occasional maintenance issues such as docks and mowing accidents. "Need massive mosquito treatment throughout the campground" and...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend staying on the north side for better spacing and privacy, bringing bug spray for mosquitoes, and using the south side for better access to amenities like flush toilets and showers....
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned in reviews during late spring and summer, correlating with wet conditions. The campground is highly popular for fall foliage and summer activities, with "The fall...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Fantastic state park extremely well managed." "The pros on the south side are that you're much closer to the showers and at least on the peninsula you can dock your boat right at your camp spot."...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews provide insight into individual experiences. For example, "Site 45 is right under a bright street light, chose another site" and "The bald eagle nest and watching the eaglet and...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are appreciated by users, especially in the north campground where pets and spacious areas are highlighted. "North camp sites have lots of room for your pets and you to relax...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users often comment on spacious sites and the ability to relax with their pets. "North camp sites have lots of room for your pets and you to relax in" confirms this.
Based on 96 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025