Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah

For Minnesotans seeking a tranquil and unpretentious lakeside camping experience, Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah, located in Garvin, offers a charming and well-regarded destination. This Murray County Park is celebrated for its quiet atmosphere and direct access to West Lake Sarah, a body of water renowned for its walleye fishing. Unlike larger, more bustling campgrounds, Sundquist Park prides itself on providing a peaceful environment where the sounds of nature and the gentle lapping of lake waters set the tone for your stay. It's a place where families can enjoy simple pleasures, from building sandcastles on the beach to casting a line from the pier. While recent reviews indicate some challenges for bank fishing due to overgrown edges, the overall consensus points to a "Great place to camp! Nice and quiet." It embodies the essence of a classic Minnesota lakeside getaway, offering essential amenities without over-commercialization, allowing campers to truly connect with the natural beauty of southwestern Minnesota. Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend escape or a longer summer retreat, Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah provides a welcoming and serene backdrop for creating cherished outdoor memories.

Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah is conveniently located at 1410 211th St, Garvin, MN 56132, USA. This address places it directly on the western shore of West Lake Sarah in Murray County, southwestern Minnesota. The park is easily accessible via County Road 30, a hard-surfaced road, making the journey smooth for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. Its lakeside position means immediate access to the water for a variety of activities. While the park is described as "well-kept," the internal layout for camping might require some consideration, as one reviewer mentioned that RVs might need to "drive on the grass" to set up, suggesting that while the sites are generally drive-in, larger rigs might find specific maneuvering beneficial. Despite this, the overall accessibility to this peaceful lakeside retreat remains high for Minnesotans. The park's location offers a sense of being away from it all, yet it's still within a reasonable driving distance for many communities across the state, making it an ideal choice for a convenient and quiet natural escape.

• Electric Campsites: Sundquist Park offers 14 campsites, all of which are equipped with electricity, providing essential power for RVs and other camping needs.
• Tent and RV Camping: The park accommodates both tent campers and recreational vehicles, offering a flexible camping experience for various preferences.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically comes with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available at each site, allowing for safe campfires, ideal for cooking or enjoying evening ambiance.
• Public Restrooms: Clean public restrooms are provided for camper convenience. While some county parks may have vault toilets, general information about Sundquist suggests clean public facilities.
• Public Showers: Refreshing public showers are available, a welcome amenity for campers after a day of outdoor activities on the lake.
• Playground: A designated playground area, complete with slides and swings, offers entertainment for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Entrance and Parking: The park strives for accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a designated parking lot to accommodate all guests.
• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome at Sundquist Park, allowing furry family members to join in the camping adventure.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVers, providing a convenient way to empty waste tanks.
• Wireless Internet (WiFi): Wireless internet is offered throughout the campground, allowing campers to stay connected, though reliability may vary.
• Boat Landing and Dock: Direct lake access is provided via a boat landing and a small fishing pier/dock, making it easy to launch watercraft and fish from shore.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: With the exception of seasonal campsites, all sites are typically available on a "first come, first served" basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Seasonal Campsite Availability: Sundquist Park offers 6 seasonal campsites (May 1 – October 1), providing an option for those seeking a longer-term lakeside base (lottery drawing may apply for these).

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Consistently praised by visitors, the tranquility of Sundquist Park is a major highlight. It's an ideal spot for those truly looking to unwind and escape urban noise.
• Prime Location on West Lake Sarah: Direct access to West Lake Sarah, one of southwestern Minnesota's "best Walleye lakes," is a significant draw. This offers excellent opportunities for fishing and water recreation.
• Accessible Fishing Pier: A handicap-accessible fishing pier allows everyone to enjoy casting a line into the productive waters of Lake Sarah. While bank fishing may be challenging due to overgrown edges, the pier provides a good alternative.
• Sandy Swimming Beach: The presence of a sandy beach and designated swimming area is a fantastic feature for families, providing a safe and enjoyable spot to cool off on warm summer days.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The combination of a playground, swimming beach, and open spaces makes Sundquist Park highly suitable for families with children, ensuring plenty of entertainment.
• Well-Maintained Park: The park is described as "well-kept," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and upkeep that enhances the overall visitor experience.
• Electric Hookups at All Sites: The convenience of electricity at all 14 campsites is a valuable feature for both RV and tent campers, allowing for comfortable and modern camping.
• Affordable Camping: As a county park, camping fees are typically reasonable, making it an accessible option for many Minnesota families.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: The park is within a reasonable distance to other Murray County attractions, including Lake Shetek State Park, which adds options for day trips and exploration.

For more information or to inquire about Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 1410 211th St, Garvin, MN 56132, USA

Phone: (507) 836-1195

Mobile Phone: +1 507-836-1195

Email: Justin.Hoffmann@co.murray.mn.us (This is the email for Murray County Parks Director Justin Hoffmann, who oversees Sundquist Park and other county parks.)

As many sites are on a "first-come, first-served" basis, it's advisable to check with the Murray County Parks Department (via the provided phone or email) for current availability, especially during peak season. For seasonal campsites, a lottery drawing may be held, so it's important to inquire about that process well in advance. Calling ahead can also provide the most up-to-date information on park conditions, fishing reports, and any special events.

For Minnesotans seeking a straightforward, peaceful, and family-friendly camping experience, Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah stands out as an excellent local choice. Its quiet ambiance, directly on the shores of West Lake Sarah, provides an authentic escape where the natural beauty of southwestern Minnesota takes center stage. The park’s commitment to offering essential amenities, including electric sites, clean showers, a playground, and an accessible fishing pier, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both tent and RV campers. While bank fishing might present a challenge due to natural overgrowth, the popular fishing pier and the lake's reputation for walleye more than compensate, making it a dream for local anglers. The sandy swimming beach is a huge plus for families, offering a safe and fun way to enjoy the water. Sundquist Park embodies the charm of a well-maintained county park – unpretentious, welcoming, and focused on providing a genuine outdoor experience. Its accessibility, combined with the peaceful setting and a wealth of lakeside activities, makes it an ideal, close-to-home destination for any Minnesotan looking to unwind, connect with nature, and create cherished memories by the tranquil waters of West Lake Sarah.

Sundquist Park at West Lake Sarah

1410 211th St, Garvin, MN 56132, USA