The camper cabins sit on a separate drive near Beers Lake in Maplewood State Park, where the Leaf Hills transition from western prairie to eastern hardwood forest. A short trail leads directly from the cabins to the water and a private dock. The location is fairly secluded, offering immediate access to nearly 30 miles of hiking trails, eight fishing lakes, and a swimming beach.
Camper cabins are available at the Camper Cabins Campground (cabins located near Beers Lake).
Historical Significance
The park was established in 1963 to preserve hilly, lake-dotted terrain shaped by retreating glaciers roughly 20,000 years ago. The land proved better suited to recreation than the surrounding farmland.Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the clearest advantage: daytime highs commonly run 45–65°F in September and October, and the hardwoods and prairie grasses turn red, orange, and gold. Deer and migrating songbirds become more active, trails are cool and dry, and the lakes are quiet for late-season paddling or fishing. Crowds thin out compared to summer weekends. April through October brings mild conditions for boating, hiking, and wildlife watching. Winter opens groomed cross-country ski trails, but Minnesota cold snaps can be severe. Check seasonal availability before booking.
Natural Features and SceneryMaplewood occupies the Leaf Hills transition zone, where rolling glacial hills drop up to 300 feet and prairie grasslands give way to stands of sugar maple, basswood, oak, and red cedar. Beers Lake sits just steps from the cabins, one of eight major lakes scattered through the park. Tamarack trees line the shorelines. Wildflowers. Trillium, yellow lady's slipper, prairie rose, showy milkweed. Bloom along the trails in spring and summer. Hallaway Hill offers views over South Lida Lake and the surrounding patchwork of forest and restored prairie.
Geological RegionLeaf Hills / rolling glacial hills transition zone between western prairies and eastern forests
Scenic ViewsScenic overlooks include Hallaway Hill with views of South Lida Lake and picnic grounds; trails and a 5-mile scenic drive offer views of wooded knolls, shady hollows, prairie restorations and several lakes.