Ronald Luis Cltier Recrtl Area

Are you a Minnesotan yearning for a quintessential Up North experience, where crystal-clear waters meet lush forests and endless recreational opportunities abound? The Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area, widely known as the Cross Lake Recreation Area, offers precisely that. Nestled at the Pine River Dam in the charming town of Crosslake, this highly-regarded campground provides a perfect setting for families, couples, and solo adventurers to immerse themselves in Minnesota's famous lake country. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it's a testament to well-maintained facilities and a commitment to providing an exceptional outdoor experience. Whether you're an avid angler, a dedicated boater, a relaxed swimmer, or simply someone seeking a tranquil escape into nature, Cross Lake Recreation Area promises a memorable stay on the popular Whitefish Chain of Lakes.

Minnesota, the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," offers an unparalleled variety of natural beauty, and the Brainerd Lakes Area stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Cross Lake, part of the extensive Whitefish Chain, epitomizes this appeal with its vast waters and scenic shorelines. The Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area capitalizes on this natural splendor, providing a well-equipped and welcoming environment for campers. This article will guide you through what makes the Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area a compelling choice for your next local camping adventure, highlighting its strategic location, comprehensive services, unique features, and how it perfectly caters to the needs of Minnesota residents looking for an accessible and enriching outdoor escape.

The Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area is located at the Pine River Dam in Crosslake, Minnesota, with its official mailing address listed as PO Box 36, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA. More specifically, you can find the entrance at 35507 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442. This prime location places it approximately 22 miles north of Brainerd, Minnesota, along Crow Wing County Road 3. For Minnesotans, its accessibility is a significant advantage. The park is easily reachable via well-maintained county roads that connect to major state highways, ensuring a smooth journey for campers coming from various parts of the state, including the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Being situated directly on Cross Lake, part of the 13,660-acre Whitefish Chain of Lakes, offers unparalleled access to a vast body of water with 119 miles of shoreline. This means immediate opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The campground's setting is distinctly wooded, providing natural shade and a classic "Up North" feel, yet it remains within walking distance of some of Crosslake's amenities. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to local shops and services makes the Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area a highly practical and appealing destination for Minnesotans eager to explore their renowned lake country without extensive travel.

The Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, provides a comprehensive array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. While the prompt listed the phone number (218) 692-2025, it's noted that Explore Minnesota lists (651) 290-5793 for the Cross Lake Recreation Area, which might be the district office. For direct inquiries to the park, the provided 218 number is the one to use.

• Campsites: Offers 121 campsites, including 91 with electric hookups (various amperage options). Non-electric sites are also available.
• Accessible Hot Shower Facilities: Two well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers for guest comfort.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and accessible restroom facilities.
• Potable Water Stations: Convenient access to fresh drinking water.
• Dump Stations: Available on-site for convenient RV waste disposal (a fee may apply, e.g., $5 as per some older information).
• Boat Ramps: Two boat ramps provide direct and easy access to Cross Lake for boating and fishing.
• Swimming Beach: A dedicated beach area for safe swimming (waterskiing is available on the lake but not in the designated swimming area).
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic spots are available, including two picnic shelters, ideal for day use and group gatherings.
• Playground Areas: Several playgrounds provide entertainment for children.
• Water Spigots: Located throughout the campground for easy water access.
• Boat Beacing: Designated areas for temporarily beaching boats.
• Pay Phone: Available on-site for communication needs.
• Fire Rings: Provided at individual campsites for campfires.
• Picnic Tables: Available at each campsite.
• Park Attendant / Hosts: Typically on-site to assist campers and manage facilities.
• Managed by US Army Corps of Engineers: Ensures professional oversight and maintenance standards.

The Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area stands out with numerous features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in Minnesota:

• Prime Location on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes: Offers unparalleled opportunities for boating, fishing (known for walleye, northern pike, bass), and other water sports across a vast, interconnected chain of lakes.
• Wooded Camping Setting: Provides ample shade and a true "Up North" ambiance with a variety of tree species.
• Picturesque Sunsets: The campground is renowned for its beautiful sunsets over Cross Lake.
• Well-Maintained Campsites: Praised for cleanliness and upkeep, ensuring a pleasant stay.
• Variety of Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping, guests can enjoy swimming, picnicking, hiking (implied by natural setting), and playground activities.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds and various activities, it's ideal for families with children.
• Accessible Facilities: Includes accessible hot shower facilities and fishing docks, promoting inclusivity.
• Proximity to Crosslake Amenities: Within walking distance or a short drive to local shops, restaurants, and other attractions in Crosslake.
• Year-Round Park Access: While camping season may be specific (e.g., May to September as per older data), the park itself may be accessible for day use year-round.
• Popular Destination: Its location on the highly popular Whitefish Chain makes it a significant draw.

Address: PO Box 36, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA (Physical location is 35507 County Rd 66, Crosslake, MN 56442)

Phone: (218) 692-2025

General inquiries/Corps of Engineers District Office Phone: (651) 290-5793 (as listed on Explore Minnesota)

For Minnesotans, the Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area, affectionately known as Cross Lake Recreation Area, is an exceptional and highly suitable destination for embracing the state's iconic outdoor lifestyle. Its prime location at the Pine River Dam on Cross Lake, part of the expansive Whitefish Chain, places residents directly in the heart of unparalleled aquatic recreation. The ease of accessibility from major population centers like the Twin Cities makes it an ideal choice for both spontaneous weekend getaways and extended summer vacations, minimizing travel time and maximizing enjoyment of the "Up North" experience right in their home state.

The campground's comprehensive amenities, including 121 well-maintained campsites (many with electric hookups), clean hot showers, modern restrooms, and convenient dump stations, ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay for all types of campers. Beyond the practicalities, the wealth of recreational features – from direct lake access via two boat ramps and a swimming beach to multiple playgrounds and picnic shelters – guarantees endless entertainment for families. The wooded setting provides a serene backdrop, perfect for unwinding after a day of fishing for walleye, exploring the lake by boat, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening by the campfire.

Moreover, as a US Army Corps of Engineers managed site, visitors can expect high standards of maintenance and operation, contributing to its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable destination. For any Minnesotan seeking a well-equipped, family-friendly, and stunningly beautiful lakeside camping experience that captures the true essence of their state's natural charm, the Ronald Louis Cloutier Recreation Area is undeniably a top-tier choice for your next unforgettable local adventure.

Ronald Luis Cltier Recrtl Area

PO Box 36, Crosslake, MN 56442, USA