About Shady River Campgrounds
Shady River Campgrounds sits along the Shady River in Big Lake, Minnesota, 45 minutes northwest of Minneapolis. The park provides direct river access for fishing and kayaking.
Shady River Campgrounds lines the banks of the Shady River in central Minnesota. The river holds walleye, northern pike, and panfish for registered guests. A boat launch allows guests to launch kayaks and canoes directly.
The campground operates from May 1 through October 15 each season. Quiet hours run from 10 PM to 8 AM for a family-friendly atmosphere. Big Lake public beach sits 3.2 miles from the campground.
Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge lies 18 miles northwest of the park. Elk River provides shopping and dining 8 miles away. Seasonal camping requires first-come, first-served reservations during peak season.
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What Amenities Does Shady River Campgrounds Offer?
Shady River Campgrounds offers river access with a boat launch, fish cleaning station, and canoe rentals. The campground provides a playground, horseshoe pits, and a community fire ring for guest use. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
What Are the Rates at Shady River Campgrounds?
Nightly rates start at $35 for standard RV sites. Weekly rates offer a 10% discount. Additional vehicles incur a $5 per day charge. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Exact current rates should be verified by phone as they may vary by season.
What Are the Check-In Rules at Shady River Campgrounds?
Check-in time begins at 2:00 PM, with check-out by 11:00 AM. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Minimum stay requirements may apply on holiday weekends. Reservations are recommended during peak summer months from June through August.
Where Is Shady River Campgrounds Located?
What Attractions Are Near Shady River Campgrounds?
Big Lake public beach is 3.2 miles from the campground. Elk River offers shopping and dining 8 miles away. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge is 18 miles northwest. Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan attractions are approximately 45 miles southeast.
What Activities Are Available at Shady River Campgrounds?
Guests enjoy fishing for walleye, northern pike, and panfish in the Shady River. The campground provides canoe and kayak rentals by the hour or day. Hiking trails connect to nearby county parks. The community fire ring hosts weekend gatherings during summer months.
What Is the Atmosphere Like at Shady River Campgrounds?
Shady River Campgrounds attracts families, weekend anglers, and seasonal campers. The atmosphere is quiet and nature-focused with limited scheduled activities. Most guests stay for weekend or week-long vacations during the summer season.
Are Pets Allowed at Shady River Campgrounds?
Pets are allowed at Shady River Campgrounds. Dogs must be leashed at all times and attended. Pet owners must clean up after their animals. A maximum of two pets per site is permitted. Breed restrictions may apply.
