Group Camp

For Minnesotans planning a gathering with family, friends, or a community organization, finding a dedicated space that combines natural beauty with practical amenities can be a challenge. Group Camp, located within the expansive and beautiful Lake Washington Regional Park in North Mankato, Minnesota, offers an ideal solution. This specialized campsite is designed to accommodate larger parties, providing a secluded yet accessible environment perfect for family reunions, scout troops, youth groups, or any gathering seeking a collective outdoor experience.

Unlike individual campsites, the Group Camp is tailored to foster shared experiences, with ample space and dedicated facilities for a larger number of people. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories amidst the serene landscapes of Le Sueur County, offering a blend of peaceful natural surroundings and convenient access to the recreational wonders of Lake Washington. While specific reviews for "Group Camp" directly might be integrated into feedback for the broader Lake Washington Regional Park, the park itself is known for its well-maintained facilities and tranquil atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience for your entire group.

Group Camp is strategically situated within Lake Washington Regional Park, identifiable by its general location at 5W48+W2, North Mankato, MN 56001, USA. This places it on the southeastern shore of beautiful Madison Lake (also often referred to as Lake Washington, particularly in Le Sueur County park contexts), approximately two miles southeast of the city of Madison Lake itself. While the address provided is a Plus Code for a general area, the campground is part of the well-known Lake Washington Regional Park managed by Le Sueur County.

Accessibility to the park and its Group Camp is excellent. Located off County Road 48, the park is easily reachable from North Mankato and other surrounding communities. For visitors coming from larger metropolitan areas, the drive is straightforward, ensuring that your group can arrive without unnecessary travel stress. The park’s location offers the perfect balance of a quiet, natural retreat while remaining within reasonable driving distance of North Mankato and Mankato, which provide a wide array of services, including grocery stores, restaurants, and additional attractions.

The proximity to Lake Washington (Madison Lake) is a significant advantage, providing immediate access to water-based activities. The surrounding area is characterized by scenic landscapes, offering a picturesque backdrop for your group's outdoor adventures. This convenient location makes Group Camp an appealing choice for local Minnesotans looking for an accessible and well-equipped site for their larger gatherings.

Group Camp at Lake Washington Regional Park is specifically equipped to cater to the needs of larger groups, offering a range of services that enhance collective camping experiences. While some amenities are shared with the broader campground, the group site itself has features designed for communal use.

• Electric Hookups: The Group Camping Site is typically equipped with multiple electric hookups (e.g., 4 electric hookups as per some park descriptions), accommodating several RVs or providing power for larger tent setups and communal lighting/appliances.
• Spacious Gravel Pads: Sites, including the group site, usually come with large and spacious gravel pads, ensuring stable and level ground for setting up.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Ample picnic tables and fire rings are provided within the group site area, facilitating group meals and evening campfires.
• Modern Shower House: A well-maintained shower house with flush toilets and hot showers is available within the campground, often a short walk from the group site, ensuring comfort and hygiene for all members of your party.
• Potable Water Access: While individual sites may not have water hookups, multiple water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground for potable water access.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available within the campground for convenient waste disposal from RVs.
• Playgrounds: Two playgrounds are located within the larger campground, providing entertainment for children in the group.
• Community Building/Shelter Rental: The park often has a picnic shelter or community building that can be rented for larger group meetings or gatherings, offering a protected space in case of inclement weather.

The allure of Group Camp at Lake Washington Regional Park extends beyond its basic services, offering unique features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for group outings in Minnesota.

• Dedicated Group Space: The primary feature is having a designated, often somewhat secluded, area specifically for your group, providing privacy and ample room for activities without disturbing other campers.
• Lake Washington Access: Enjoy direct access to Lake Washington, providing opportunities for:
  • Fishing: The lake is stocked with crappies, sunfish, walleye, northerns, bass, and bullheads. A fishing dock is available.
  • Boating/Paddling: A canoe/kayak launch into Bakers Bay is available, and motorized boating is allowed on the lake.
  • Scenic Views: The campground offers peaceful scenery and beautiful views of Lake Washington.
• Extensive Trails: The park features 3.5 miles of walking or hiking trails, allowing your group to explore the natural surroundings. In winter, approximately 3 miles of cross-country ski trails are groomed.
• Open Fields for Recreation: Large open fields within the park provide ample space for group games, sports, and other recreational activities.
• Basketball Hoop: A basketball hoop is available for some friendly competition within your group.
• Natural Beauty: The park boasts Shanaska Creek and multiple tree groves, adding to the picturesque setting and providing opportunities for nature observation.
• Historical Significance: The Shanaska Creek Bridge, built in 1875, serves as a pedestrian bridge along a trail in the park, offering a touch of local history.
• Proximity to Regional Attractions: Beyond the park, your group can easily access attractions in North Mankato and Mankato, including Minneopa State Park (with its bison herd and waterfalls), Sibley Park Zoo, and various shopping and dining options.

To inquire about the Group Camp at Lake Washington Regional Park, check availability, or make a reservation for your group, please use the contact information for Le Sueur County Parks and the specific park management.

Address: 5W48+W2, North Mankato, MN 56001, USA (Refers to the general area within Lake Washington Regional Park)

Phone: (507) 995-1161 (This number is often cited for campground reservations and inquiries for Lake Washington Regional Park.)

Reservations for the campground, including the Group Camp site, typically begin on April 1st of each year. It is highly recommended to book the Group Camp well in advance, especially for popular dates, as dedicated group sites can fill up quickly.

Group Camp at Lake Washington Regional Park in North Mankato, Minnesota, offers an outstanding solution for any group seeking a memorable outdoor experience. Its specialized design and amenities cater specifically to larger parties, providing a dedicated space with essential electric hookups, clean facilities, and plenty of room for communal activities. The park's stunning location on Lake Washington grants access to a wealth of recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating to hiking and sports in open fields.

For Minnesotans planning family reunions, youth camps, or any large gathering that thrives in a natural setting, Group Camp provides the perfect blend of tranquility, accessibility, and fun. Embrace the beauty of the North Mankato area, enjoy the conveniences designed for your group, and create unforgettable memories at this exceptional Minnesota campground.

Group Camp

5W48+W2, North Mankato, MN 56001, USA