Upper Group Camp

For Minnesotans who cherish the natural beauty and boundless recreational opportunities that our state offers, finding the perfect spot for a group getaway is key to creating unforgettable memories. Upper Group Camp, nestled within the picturesque Sakatah Lake State Park in Waterville, is an exceptional choice for those seeking a dedicated space for larger gatherings amidst the tranquility of a state park setting. This camp provides an ideal environment for family reunions, scout troops, youth groups, or friends looking to connect with nature and each other.

Located along the scenic shores of Upper Sakatah Lake, Upper Group Camp offers a blend of natural immersion and essential amenities designed to accommodate up to 50 people. It’s a place where the sounds of the lake and the rustle of leaves create a peaceful backdrop for outdoor adventures. This article will guide you through the unique offerings of Upper Group Camp, detailing its prime location, the specific services available, and the distinct features that make it a highly suitable option for groups looking to experience the best of Minnesota's natural landscape.

Upper Group Camp is situated at 6FFJ+WW, Waterville, MN 55052, USA. This Google Plus Code points directly to its location within Sakatah Lake State Park, a cherished gem in south-central Minnesota. The park itself is strategically positioned between the towns of Waterville and Morristown, offering a convenient balance of natural seclusion and access to local communities.

The camp's precise location within Sakatah Lake State Park is particularly advantageous: it's found along the shore of Upper Sakatah Lake, near the park's boat landing, and directly adjacent to the popular Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail. This provides incredible accessibility for various activities. For those traveling from the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area (Minneapolis-St. Paul), the drive to Waterville is approximately one hour south, making it a feasible destination for weekend trips without extensive travel. Major roadways, including US-14 and State Highway 60, provide clear routes into the Waterville area, ensuring a smooth journey for groups arriving with multiple vehicles. Once inside Sakatah Lake State Park, signage will guide visitors to the Upper Group Camp. The proximity to the boat landing means easy access for those bringing kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats, while direct access to the paved Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail is a dream for bikers, hikers, and inline skaters. Essential services like gas stations, grocery stores, and local eateries are available in Waterville, just a short drive from the park, ensuring that groups can easily resupply during their stay. This combination of natural beauty, recreational access, and convenient proximity to amenities makes Upper Group Camp an excellent choice for any group seeking an authentic Minnesota outdoor experience.

• Capacity for Large Groups: The Upper Group Camp is designed to accommodate groups with a capacity of up to 50 people, making it ideal for family reunions, youth organizations, and other large gatherings.
• Running Water: The site is equipped with running water, a significant convenience for cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene.
• Outhouses: Dedicated outhouse facilities are available on-site, providing essential restroom access in a rustic setting.
• Electricity: Electricity is available at the site for a fee, offering power for lights, charging devices, and other electrical needs, which can be particularly useful for larger groups.
• Tenting and Limited Trailer Accommodation: The site primarily accommodates tents, allowing for a classic group camping experience, but can also handle a limited number of trailers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: While not explicitly listed for this specific group camp, standard state park group camps typically include multiple picnic tables and fire rings to facilitate communal meals and campfires.
• Boat Landing Access: Being near the boat landing on Upper Sakatah Lake provides easy access for launching watercraft.

• Exclusive Group Setting: The primary highlight of Upper Group Camp is its designation as a group camp. This means your group has a dedicated, sizable area to yourselves, fostering a stronger sense of community and privacy away from individual campsites.
• Scenic Lakeside Location: Situated directly along the shore of Upper Sakatah Lake, the camp offers beautiful views and immediate access to the water. This provides a serene backdrop for relaxation and endless opportunities for lake-based activities.
• Direct Access to Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail: For active groups, this is a major draw. The paved 39-mile trail, ideal for biking, hiking, and inline skating, runs directly alongside the camp, offering miles of exploration through varied landscapes. In winter, it's popular for snowmobiling.
• Essential Utilities for Group Comfort: The provision of running water and electricity (for a fee) at a group camp is a significant convenience, simplifying meal preparation, cleanup, and ensuring comfort, especially for larger gatherings.
• Proximity to Park Amenities: Guests at Upper Group Camp have easy access to the broader amenities of Sakatah Lake State Park, which may include additional restrooms, interpretive messages, and the park office where canoe and kayak rentals, and fishing poles are available seasonally.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: As part of a state park known for its maple and basswood forests, the area around Upper Group Camp offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, enhancing the nature experience.
• Versatile for Activities: The open space and proximity to both the lake and the trail make the camp highly versatile for a range of group activities, from outdoor games to water sports and trail adventures.

Address: 6FFJ+WW, Waterville, MN 55052, USA

(Note: Specific phone number directly for Upper Group Camp is not publicly listed; general contact for Sakatah Lake State Park or Minnesota DNR for reservations would be the appropriate contact method.)

For Minnesotans, Upper Group Camp in Waterville is an ideal destination for cultivating shared experiences and enjoying our state's incredible natural resources. Its location within Sakatah Lake State Park, a comfortable drive from much of Southern Minnesota, including the Twin Cities, makes it an accessible and convenient choice for group outings. This means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the camaraderie and the beauty of the North Star State.

What truly makes Upper Group Camp suitable for local groups is its dedicated design for larger gatherings. Whether it’s a multi-generational family reunion, a youth group retreat, or a large gathering of friends, having a spacious, designated area that accommodates up to 50 people is invaluable. This allows for privacy, ample space for activities, and fosters a stronger sense of community among participants. The availability of running water, outhouses, and optional electricity adds a layer of comfort and convenience that makes planning and executing group meals and activities much simpler, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.

Furthermore, Upper Group Camp’s integration with Sakatah Lake State Park provides access to an array of quintessential Minnesota outdoor activities. The direct access to Upper Sakatah Lake is perfect for those who love to fish, paddle, or simply enjoy the lake views. The adjacent Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail offers endless opportunities for biking and hiking, allowing groups to explore the scenic landscapes at their leisure. For Minnesotans, who deeply value their state parks and the outdoor lifestyle, Upper Group Camp offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, functional amenities for groups, and opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. It’s a place where lasting memories are made, cementing its status as a top choice for group camping in our beautiful state.

Upper Group Camp

6FFJ+WW, Waterville, MN 55052, USA