Carley Campground

Star4.51
50 reviews
Carley Campground
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Pets Allowed

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Minnesota State Parks (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources) site

Official Website

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026
Carley Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
Reservations are required for all campsites. A non-refundable reservation fee is charged for each advance reservation ($10 by call center / $8...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Minnesota State Parks
Provider
866-857-2757 (reservations); 888-646-6367; 651-296-6157
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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 50 reviews

48 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulshadehikingwater

Some mention

mosquitoes

"Reviews are generally positive, praising scenic trails, wildflower displays and a quiet, back‑to‑nature camping experience. Common negatives cite basic or aging restroom/shower facilities, rough/unpaved roads and, at primitive island sites, heavy mosquitoes and bold raccoons."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Carley Campground
No map location available

Best Time to Camp at Carley Campground

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Shaded, large campsites and lake access point to a very pleasant summer experience.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Oak savanna and wooded areas likely provide strong fall color and quiet seasonal appeal.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 14% in MN

Wetlands and bird activity suggest spring is excellent for wildlife viewing and renewal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

No winter specifics provided; Minnesota winters possible but undocumented here.

Planning Tips

    About Carley Campground

    Why rush home when the best part of your day at Carley State Park is just beginning? Set up camp as the sun dips below the horizon, then gather around the campfire for s'mores and stories, join rangers for evening nature programs, or take a peaceful walk under the stars—the magic of Carley doesn't end at sunset.
    Reported campground options include tent and RV sites in the main campgrounds and a primitive hike‑in/group site on a small island; group sites are available. Cabin/modern lodging is not documented for this campground.
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    Amenities available

    Showers
    Potable water
    Electricity hookups
    Flush toilets
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables

    Activities you can enjoy

    Evening naturalist programs and moonlit walks are mentioned; multiple trails and water trails provide opportunities for hiking, biking, paddling/boating, fishing and wildlife viewing (notably birding).
    HikingEvening naturalist activities and moonlit walks are noted; multiple trails run through woods, prairie and along the lake providing hiking opportunities.
    FishingReviewers report fishing along nearby lakes and streams, including trout fishing mentioned in reviews.
    Biking
    Boating
    Wildlife viewing
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    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsFollow fire safety rules and use local or approved firewood to help prevent the spread of harmful forest pests. Light fires only within fire rings or charcoal grills, do not leave fires unattended, and extinguish all fires before leaving. Do not burn trash.
    No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

    Weather at Carley Campground

    Reviews

    4.5
    50 reviews
    Top-Rated
    Top-Rated
    Carley Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Reviews are generally positive, praising scenic trails, wildflower displays and a quiet, back‑to‑nature camping experience. Common negatives cite basic or aging restroom/shower facilities, rough/unpaved roads and, at primitive island sites, heavy mosquitoes and bold raccoons.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 50 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Scenic hiking and wildflower displays (Virginia bluebells), peaceful and often shaded/private campsites, good birdwatching and proximity to water; dog‑friendly and suitable for rustic camping.
    Based on 50 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Bring insect repellent and secure food from wildlife; bring water and a cart/wagon for the primitive island site; arrive mid‑week for more solitude; expect rustic facilities and consider arriving...
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    Based on 50 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    Nice little primitive park with camping,hiking, fishing ect. Outhouse style toilets but very clean. enjoyable park!; Beautiful park!; Magical place; Wish the campground had a longer season.
    Based on 50 reviews

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    Last updated February 17, 2026
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