BIG STONE LAKE STATE PARK CAMPGROUND

**Introduction / Overview**

For Minnesota residents and visitors seeking a classic, relaxing lakeside escape with exceptional fishing and quiet natural beauty, the **Big Stone Lake State Park Campground** near Ortonville is a hidden gem on the western edge of the state. Situated along the shores of the expansive Big Stone Lake, this destination provides a perfect blend of peaceful camping and active water recreation. Big Stone Lake itself is a historical and geographical landmark, serving as the very headwaters of the mighty Minnesota River, making your stay here feel connected to the heart of the region's natural history.

The campground is located within the park's **Meadowbrook Area**, which has been thoughtfully designed to blend recreational access with ecological preservation, including areas being restored to native prairie, woodland, and wet-meadow communities. What truly sets this campground apart is its manageable size and family-friendly atmosphere. As one local camper noted, it’s an "Awesome little campground. Well designed and spacious. Small enough for the kids to ride their bikes around and always keep an eye on them yet spacious enough to have their own privacy." This balance of community and personal space, combined with excellent facilities, makes it a highly recommended choice for both seasoned RV travelers and families introducing their children to the joys of tent camping.

Whether your passion is reeling in a prize walleye, birdwatching among the native prairie remnants, or simply watching a stunning sunset over the water, this Minnesota State Park offers a serene and rewarding outdoor experience.

**Location and Accessibility**

The **Big Stone Lake State Park Campground** is located in the beautiful prairie and lake region of western Minnesota, near the town of Ortonville in Big Stone County. Its location on the border of Minnesota and South Dakota adds a unique geographical element to the landscape and the fishing experience, as special border water regulations apply to the lake.

The physical address for the main Meadowbrook Area, where the primary campground is situated, is:

**35889 St Park Rd, Ortonville, MN 56278, USA**

The park is easily accessible via state and county highways leading into Ortonville. From the junction of Highway 7 and US-12, the park is only a short, scenic drive. This close proximity to Ortonville (about seven miles) is a major convenience for campers, as you can quickly run into town for any forgotten supplies, gas, or a specialty coffee, as mentioned by frequent visitors.

The State Park is comprised of three distinct units—the Meadowbrook Area (the main camping area), the Overlook Area (a scenic rest stop), and the Bonanza Area (a northern unit with hiking and a boat launch). This spread of land ensures that while the campground is quiet and secluded, multiple areas of the lake and diverse habitats are open for exploration within a short driving distance.

**Services Offered**

The campground and the surrounding Meadowbrook Area of the State Park are equipped with semi-modern facilities designed to provide comfort and convenience for all types of campers:

• **Drive-in Campsites:** The campground offers 37 total sites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs up to 48 feet in length.
• **Electric Hookups:** Ten sites are designated with electric service, a much-appreciated amenity for RV users.
• **Modern Showerhouse & Restrooms:** Centralized facilities on the campground loop feature flush toilets and hot showers, adding a high degree of comfort and convenience, which is noted by multiple customer reviews.
• **Sanitary Dump Station:** A dedicated area for RV campers to dispose of waste, located near the park office.
• **Boat Launch and Docks:** A dedicated, convenient boat launch allows campers with watercraft to easily access Big Stone Lake for boating and fishing.
• **Water Access:** Potable water spigots are conveniently spaced throughout the campground loops.
• **Firewood:** Approved, locally sourced firewood is available for purchase at the park office (or nearby vendors) to ensure fire safety and prevent the spread of invasive tree pests.
• **Equipment Rental:** Canoe and kayak rentals are typically available during the summer months, providing a perfect way to explore the lake without bringing your own gear. Fishing kits and birding kits can often be borrowed from the park office, making outdoor exploration easy for newcomers.

**Features / Highlights**

Big Stone Lake State Park Campground is celebrated by locals for its specific, high-quality features that enhance the camping and outdoor experience:

• **Lakeside Campsites and Views:** Over a dozen campsites are located directly along the lakeshore, offering campers the unique opportunity to shore fish right from their site and enjoy stunning, unobstructed sunsets over the water.
• **Exceptional Fishing Opportunities:** Big Stone Lake is renowned for its excellent walleye, northern pike, and panfish populations. The park’s boat launch and access points cater directly to anglers, with the lake’s headwaters status drawing diverse aquatic life.
• **Family-Friendly Layout:** The campground design features smaller, easy-to-navigate loops, which a reviewer highlighted as being "small enough for the kids to ride their bikes around and always keep an eye on them," fostering a safe and relaxed family environment.
• **Well-Maintained Site Amenities:** Each campsite is equipped with a high-quality steel fire ring that includes a cooking grate, along with a picnic table, ensuring every meal around the campfire is convenient and enjoyable.
• **Diverse Habitats for Wildlife Viewing:** The park protects native prairie, oak savanna woodland, and cattail wetlands. This ecological diversity means exceptional opportunities for birdwatching (including American White Pelicans and various migratory waterfowl) and viewing local wildlife like deer and wild turkeys.

**Contact Information**

For reservations, current park conditions, or general inquiries about the **Big Stone Lake State Park Campground**:

**Address:** 35889 St Park Rd, Ortonville, MN 56278, USA

**Phone:** (320) 839-3663

**Mobile Phone:** +1 320-839-3663

For reservations, it is best to check the official Minnesota DNR website or call their reservation line, as the on-site ranger station hours can be seasonal.

**What is Worth Choosing**

You should choose **Big Stone Lake State Park Campground** for your next Minnesota camping adventure if you prioritize **direct lake access, a clean and convenient facility experience, and a high-quality fishing destination.**

The combination of well-maintained sites with amenities like fire rings and modern showers (praised as being "pretty close, adding to the whole experience and convenience") ensures a comfortable stay whether you’re pitching a tent or setting up a large RV. Its location on Big Stone Lake, the source of the Minnesota River, provides not just a backdrop, but a main attraction—especially for anglers who appreciate the convenience of the dedicated boat launch and the chance to fish directly from their lakeshore campsite. The friendly, small-scale nature of the campground fosters a safe environment for families and a quiet atmosphere for couples seeking a peaceful getaway. When you choose Big Stone Lake, you are choosing a true Minnesota lakeside retreat that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with all the necessary comforts.