Hollow Loop Campground: A Rustic Retreat in Maplewood State Park, MN

Hollow Loop Campground Introduce

For those in Minnesota yearning for an authentic connection with nature, away from the hum of modern life, Hollow Loop Campground offers a tranquil and immersive experience. Nestled within the picturesque Maplewood State Park in Maplewood Township, this campground is a haven for campers who appreciate a more rustic and peaceful outdoor adventure. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, and the vibrant hues of autumn or the lush greens of summer provide an ever-changing natural canvas. Hollow Loop Campground is designed for those who seek simplicity and a deep appreciation for Minnesota's diverse landscapes.

Hollow Loop Campground is specifically known for its serene setting, tucked amidst Maplewood's characteristic sugar maple, basswood, and oak tree forests. This natural insulation provides a sense of seclusion and quiet, making it an ideal choice for campers looking to truly unwind and reconnect with the wilderness. While it may not offer all the modern amenities found in some larger RV parks, its charm lies in its untouched beauty and the opportunity to experience camping in its purest form. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen birdwatcher, or simply someone who enjoys the peace of a campfire under the stars, Hollow Loop Campground invites you to discover the serene beauty of Maplewood State Park. It's a testament to Minnesota's commitment to preserving its natural heritage for all to enjoy.

Hollow Loop Campground is located within Maplewood State Park, specifically in Maplewood Township, MN 56572, USA. While the park itself has a main entrance road at 39721 Park Entrance Road, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572, Hollow Loop is one of several camping loops nestled deeper within the park's extensive 9,200 acres. This location places it in Otter Tail County, a region renowned for its rolling hills, numerous lakes, and stunning fall foliage.

Accessibility to Hollow Loop Campground involves navigating into Maplewood State Park. The park is generally accessible via well-maintained state highways, making it a manageable drive for Minnesotans from various parts of the state, including the Fargo-Moorhead area and the greater Detroit Lakes region. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors to the different campground loops, including Hollow Loop. Its placement within the dense forest ensures a sense of remoteness, yet it remains within a reasonable driving distance of essential services and local communities like Pelican Rapids, where visitors can find groceries, gas, and other necessities. This balance allows campers to feel immersed in nature while retaining the convenience of nearby resources. The beauty of the drive into and around the park is an experience in itself, with opportunities for wildlife sightings and panoramic views of the unique prairie-forest transition zone.

Hollow Loop Campground, being part of Maplewood State Park, offers specific services tailored to a more rustic camping experience, while still providing essential comforts.

Campsites: Each campsite in Hollow Loop is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking meals outdoors and enjoying campfires.
Non-Electric Sites: Importantly, the Hollow Loop campground does not have electric hookups, catering to campers who prefer a more traditional and off-grid experience.
Restrooms: Vault toilets are available within the Hollow Loop and other campgrounds in the park.
Shower Facilities: While Hollow Loop itself may not have showers directly at the loop, accessible shower buildings are available within the broader Grass Lake Campground area (which includes Hollow Loop, Main Loop, and Knoll Loop), typically open from May to October.
Drinking Water: Access to drinking water spigots is provided within the campground area.
Firewood Sales: Firewood can be purchased at the park's contact station, ensuring compliance with park regulations and preventing the spread of tree diseases.
Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available within Maplewood State Park (specifically at Grass Lake Campground) for RV waste disposal.
Park Office/Ranger Station: Provides information, permits, and assistance, with seasonal operating hours.

Hollow Loop Campground, as part of the larger Maplewood State Park, boasts several features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts.

Stunning Fall Colors: Located amidst sugar maple, basswood, and oak trees, the campground offers breathtaking displays of fall foliage, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds.
Secluded Forest Setting: The campsites are nestled deeply within the forest, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility, ideal for a peaceful retreat away from crowds.
Access to Extensive Trails: Guests have direct access to Maplewood State Park's vast network of multi-purpose trails, including nearly 30 miles of hiking trails and 20 miles of horseback riding trails. The North Country Trail also weaves through the park.
Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The diverse landscape, a transition zone between forest and prairie, supports a rich variety of wildlife, including over 150 bird species (like loons and bald eagles) and 50 mammal species (such as deer, beaver, and raccoons), offering excellent opportunities for nature watching.
Lake Access: While Hollow Loop is forested, the overall Maplewood State Park features eight major lakes and many ponds. Campers have access to boat launches on lakes like Beers Lake and South Lake Lida, popular for fishing walleye, northern pike, and panfish. Beers Lake also has a fishing pier.
Swimming Beach: A sandy swimming beach is located on Lake Lida within the park, offering a refreshing spot for a dip during warmer months.
Scenic Drives and Overlooks: The park offers a scenic 5-mile auto tour and overlooks like Hallaway Hill, providing dramatic vistas of the rolling hills and lakes.
Pet-Friendly: The campground and park trails are pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join in the outdoor adventures (with leash requirements and other rules).

Hollow Loop Campground is part of Maplewood State Park. For direct inquiries, reservations, or more information about the park and its campgrounds, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Maplewood Township, MN 56572, USA (within Maplewood State Park, the park office address is 39721 Park Entrance Road, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572, USA)

Phone: (218) 863-8383 (Maplewood State Park Office)

Email: maplewood.statepark@state.mn.us

It is highly recommended to check the Minnesota DNR website or contact the park office directly for the most up-to-date information on seasonal hours, campsite availability, and any park alerts before planning your visit.

Hollow Loop Campground is an excellent choice for Minnesotans seeking a classic state park camping experience that prioritizes nature and tranquility. Its location within Maplewood State Park offers a unique blend of dense hardwood forests and rolling hills, a landscape distinctive to this region of Minnesota. For locals, the accessibility to this natural gem means a relatively short drive to a world away, providing a perfect escape from urban environments. The absence of electric hookups in Hollow Loop caters specifically to those who desire a more traditional tent camping experience, encouraging a deeper connection with the outdoors.

Minnesotans, known for their love of the outdoors and appreciation for the changing seasons, will particularly enjoy the stunning fall colors that envelop Hollow Loop. The extensive trail system provides endless opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation, activities deeply ingrained in the local culture. Furthermore, the numerous lakes within Maplewood State Park offer ample chances for fishing, boating, and swimming, all within a short distance of the campground. For a genuine, peaceful, and visually spectacular camping adventure that celebrates the natural beauty of Minnesota, Hollow Loop Campground offers an unforgettable experience right in your backyard.