Collinwood Regional Park & Campground

For Minnesotans passionate about embracing the great outdoors, from seasoned campers to families seeking a refreshing escape, Collinwood Regional Park & Campground in Cokato, MN, presents a robust and engaging destination. This 308-acre lakeside park offers a myriad of recreational opportunities set against the scenic backdrop of Collinwood Lake. Whether you're looking to hike extensive trails, enjoy a day at the beach, cast a line into the lake, or simply relax by a campfire, Collinwood Regional Park & Campground provides a comprehensive outdoor experience designed to cater to diverse interests.

Operated by Wright County Parks & Recreation, this campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant community hub for outdoor activity. While some unique aspects of the lake and trails are worth noting, the overall positive feedback on its facilities and range of features make it a strong contender for your next Minnesota adventure. This article will provide a detailed overview of what you can expect when visiting Collinwood Regional Park & Campground, focusing on its location, amenities, and the highlights that make it a suitable choice for locals.

Location and Accessibility

Collinwood Regional Park & Campground is conveniently located at 17251 70th St SW, Cokato, MN 55321, USA. This address places the park just three miles southwest of Cokato, off CSAH 31, making it easily accessible for visitors from across Minnesota. Its proximity to Highway 12 also means it's a manageable drive from larger metropolitan areas, including the Twin Cities, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway without extensive travel.

The park's setting on the shores of Collinwood Lake enhances its appeal, offering picturesque views and direct water access. While nestled in a natural environment, the park's well-maintained roads and clear signage ensure that all types of vehicles, from small cars to large RVs, can navigate to their campsites with ease. For those looking to explore beyond the park, the nearby towns of Cokato and Dassel provide access to groceries, local shops, and other conveniences, ensuring that campers have everything they need within a short drive.

Services Offered

• Campsites (67 units): The campground features a total of 67 campsites, offering variety to suit different camping needs.
• Electrical Hookups: Forty sites are equipped with electric hookups (30 amp), providing power for RVs and other camping equipment.
• Full Service Hookups: Fifteen sites offer full service, including 50/30 amp electrical, water, and sewer connections, ideal for larger RVs and longer stays.
• Rustic Sites: Ten non-electric or rustic sites are available for a more traditional camping experience.
• Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: The campground boasts two modern shower and restroom facilities, ensuring clean and comfortable amenities for all guests, though some feedback suggests hot water can be lukewarm.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is located within the campground for RV waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is furnished with one picnic table and one fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires.
• Group Camp Facilities: For larger gatherings, the park provides dedicated group camp facilities with vault toilets and water access.
• Fish Cleaning Facility: Anglers will appreciate the on-site fish cleaning facility, making it easy to prepare their catch.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for sale at the park office, ensuring you have everything you need for a cozy campfire.
• On-site Manager: An on-site manager is present for six months, typically from mid-April to mid-October, providing assistance and ensuring smooth operations.

Features / Highlights

• Miles of Hiking/Walking Trails: The park boasts extensive trails, approximately five miles, suitable for hiking, walking, and cross-country skiing in winter. These trails wind through wooded areas and offer scenic views, though some sections can be very muddy after rain due to clay soil.
• Lakeside Setting on Collinwood Lake: The park's location on the shores of Collinwood Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating (with boat access), and waterfront activities. A fishing pier is also available.
• Swimming Beach: A spacious sandy beach is available for swimming and other water activities. Recent reviews noted the beach's cleanliness and lack of goose droppings, indicating good maintenance. However, it's important to be aware that the lake can experience algae blooms late in the season, which might affect swimming preferences.
• Large Playground and Picnic Facilities: The park features a "nice playground" for children and well-maintained picnic areas with reservable shelters, making it ideal for family outings and gatherings.
• Sports Courts: Outdoor amenities include a basketball court and sand volleyball court, providing opportunities for friendly competition.
• Winter Sledding Hill: For off-season enjoyment, the park also offers a sledding hill, adding to its year-round appeal.
• Site Variety: Campers can choose between "numbered sites are treed" (though potentially questionable for very large units) and "alphabet sites are great for large units, but no trees." This variety allows campers to pick a spot that best suits their needs, whether seeking shade or open space for satellite reception.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome in most areas of the park, including trails, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet and owners clean up after them. Pets are not allowed in the beach area, park buildings, or day-use picnic area.
• Affordable Rates: The camping fees are reasonable, with differential pricing for Wright County residents and non-residents, making it an accessible option for many.

Contact Information

Address: 17251 70th St SW, Cokato, MN 55321, USA

Phone: (320) 286-2801

Mobile Phone: +1 320-286-2801 (This is the same as the main phone number listed)

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans, Collinwood Regional Park & Campground offers a robust and versatile outdoor destination that caters to a wide range of interests and camping styles. Its proximity to local communities and easy accessibility from major roadways make it an ideal choice for a convenient getaway without a lengthy drive. This means more time enjoying the park and less time on the road, a significant advantage for families and individuals seeking a quick escape to nature.

Despite some minor considerations regarding lake quality late in the season or trail muddiness after rain, the overwhelming array of features makes Collinwood a strong contender for locals. The "miles of walking/hiking" trails provide ample opportunity for exercise and exploration, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Wright County. The diverse camping options, from full-service RV sites to rustic tent spots, ensure that all types of campers can find a suitable place. Furthermore, the modern amenities, including clean shower houses (though the hot water can be inconsistent), a playground, picnic facilities, and sports courts, enhance the overall comfort and enjoyment of a family camping trip.

The fact that it's a regional park managed by Wright County ensures it's well-maintained and focused on providing public recreational opportunities. For locals, this means a consistent standard of quality and a commitment to preserving natural spaces. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a family outing with kids who love playgrounds and beaches, or a quiet weekend surrounded by trees, Collinwood Regional Park & Campground provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. It's a valuable local resource that encourages Minnesotans to connect with their state's beautiful landscapes and active outdoor lifestyle.

Collinwood Regional Park & Campground

17251 70th St SW, Cokato, MN 55321, USA