McCullough County Park

McCullough County Park, nestled in the charming rural landscape of Lonsdale, Minnesota, offers a tranquil and welcoming escape for campers seeking a peaceful retreat. This quiet little park, operated by Rice County, provides a convenient and family-friendly environment with a focus on ease of access and essential amenities. Unlike some larger, more bustling campgrounds, McCullough County Park maintains a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate a laid-back camping experience. With its online reservable sites, campers can plan their visits with confidence, ensuring a spot at this beloved lakeside haven. The park is particularly noted for its clean and newer facilities, including a well-maintained shower house and a convenient dump station, which enhance the comfort of any stay. Its connection to Shields Lake, a main attraction, ensures that water activities are readily available, creating a well-rounded outdoor experience for all visitors.

McCullough County Park is strategically located in Lonsdale, MN 55046, USA, placing it within Rice County in southeastern Minnesota. This region is characterized by its scenic rural landscapes, dotted with numerous lakes and charming small towns, making it a popular area for local outdoor enthusiasts. The park's address ensures straightforward navigation for campers traveling from various parts of Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metropolitan area, which is within a reasonable driving distance. The park's primary draw, Shields Lake, is directly accessible from the campground, providing convenient opportunities for water-based recreation. While offering a sense of being away from the hustle and bustle, the park remains well-connected, allowing campers easy access to Lonsdale for any last-minute supplies or local dining options. This blend of peaceful seclusion and practical accessibility makes McCullough County Park an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation in the heart of Minnesota's beautiful lake country.

• Online Reservable Sites: McCullough County Park offers the convenience of online reservable campsites, allowing campers to secure their preferred spot in advance, which is particularly useful during peak seasons. Reservations for the 2025 season typically open in early March and the season runs from early May through late October.
• Variety of Campsites: The campground features 30 campsites, including 20 sites with water and electric hookups (both 30- and 50-amp available) for RVs and campers, and 10 designated as seasonal sites, some of which are full hookup. This variety caters to different camping preferences and needs.
• Newer Shower House: Visitors benefit from a newer, modern shower house with clean facilities, providing hot showers and well-maintained restrooms. This amenity significantly enhances the comfort for all campers, especially those in tents or smaller RVs.
• RV Dump Station: A convenient RV dump station is available on-site, making it easy for RV and trailer campers to manage their waste before departure. This well-maintained facility is a highly appreciated service.
• Picnic Shelter: An open-wall picnic shelter is available, offering a communal space for gatherings, meals, or shelter from the elements. This is ideal for families or groups.
• Playground: For families with children, a dedicated playground area provides entertainment and a safe space for kids to play, making the park very family-friendly.
• Fishing Pier: The park boasts a fishing pier with access onto Shields Lake, providing a designated and accessible spot for anglers to enjoy fishing directly from the shore.
• Adjacent DNR Boat Access: For those bringing their own watercraft, there is an adjacent Department of Natural Resources (DNR) boat access point to Shields Lake, ensuring easy launch and retrieval.

• Quiet Little Park: McCullough County Park is consistently described as a "quiet little park," offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and escaping daily noise.
• Friendly Local Atmosphere: Many visitors note the friendly atmosphere, with a significant number of other campers being locals. This fosters a welcoming and communal environment where it's easy to connect with fellow Minnesotans.
• Newer and Clean Facilities: The "newer shower house" and generally clean bathrooms and showers are major highlights, indicating a commitment to guest comfort and hygiene.
• Direct Access to Shields Lake: The park's location directly on Shields Lake provides excellent opportunities for water activities such as fishing, boating, and potentially swimming. The lake is a primary draw for campers.
• Versatile Camping Options: With both water/electric sites for RVs and dedicated seasonal sites, the park caters to a wide range of camping preferences, from short-term visits to extended stays.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a playground and picnic shelter makes it an excellent choice for families looking for a convenient and enjoyable outdoor experience.
• Reasonable Pricing: While some recent concerns about price increases have been noted, the overall pricing is generally considered reasonable for the amenities and experience offered.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Descriptions of the park suggest well-maintained grounds, contributing to an overall pleasant and tidy environment for campers.

Address: Lonsdale, MN 55046, USA

For reservations, current rates, specific site availability, or any detailed inquiries about McCullough County Park, it is best to contact Rice County Parks & Facilities directly. Their main phone number for park-related questions is often available on the Rice County, MN government website. A general search for "Rice County MN Parks contact" or "McCullough County Park reservations" should provide the most current and accurate phone number to speak with park staff.

For Minnesotans, McCullough County Park offers an outstanding and genuinely suitable option for a local camping getaway, perfectly aligning with the desire for accessible, comfortable, and peaceful outdoor experiences. Its location in Lonsdale, within Rice County, makes it an easy drive for residents across the southern and central parts of the state, including the Twin Cities metropolitan area. This convenience means less time traveling and more time enjoying the natural surroundings, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous weekend trips or planned family vacations.

The park's "quiet little park" atmosphere and the prevalence of friendly local campers create a welcoming and familiar environment. This sense of community is highly valued by Minnesotans, fostering a relaxed setting where families can truly unwind and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. The newer shower house and dump station address practical needs, ensuring a comfortable stay for RVers and tent campers alike, while the playground and open-wall picnic shelter cater specifically to families, providing ample opportunities for children to play and for group gatherings.

Perhaps the most significant draw for local Minnesotans is the park's direct access to Shields Lake. Given Minnesota’s identity as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," having a campground with a fishing pier and adjacent DNR boat access is incredibly appealing. Whether it's for a morning of fishing, a leisurely afternoon on the water, or simply enjoying the lakeside views, McCullough County Park provides the quintessential Minnesota lake experience. This combination of a serene setting, practical amenities, a community-focused atmosphere, and prime lake access makes McCullough County Park a top-tier choice for any Minnesotan looking to make the most of their state's natural treasures without venturing far from home.

For a visual overview of the park, you might want to watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKRzIBIsUG8). This video offers a tour of the campground and its surroundings, providing a helpful perspective for potential visitors.

McCullough County Park

Lonsdale, MN 55046, USA