Iowa/Minnesota trip help
DW & I are planning to visit the 2014 NDOG (National Dutch Oven Gathering) in Monticello, Iowa on Sept 13 and then take part in the Midwest Sportsmobile Group Rally in the Amana Colonies RV Park Sept ...
Forum Discussion
Alfred622 wrote:
In the morning, head up to the Kathio State Park. Again, nice sites, not far from Mille Lacs Lake, interesting historical exhibits (I enjoy native american history), and fun places to eat. Hiking trail all over (hike to the fire tower) and well maintained. That will be about a 3 hr drive from Big Island. This would be a good one or two day camp.
I agree with all of Alfred's post except this little part :)
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park is the one park we would never return to! We are state park campers and are used to wildlife and bugs but this place was literally overrun with both (ie very large snapping turtles took over the swimming pond and playground, laying eggs everywhere; everyday I picked at least 20 ticks off of my dog; mosquitoes so bad you could not sit outside even with DEET).
Instead I'd recommend Father Hennepin State Park, which is located right on Lake Mille Lacs. It's a pretty park and there are many sites with lake views. Also many trails, it's home of some albino deer which are always a treat to see, and it's near the town of Isle which has a small grocery store and gas station, diner, shops. Kathio is off by itself, a bit of a drive from the nearest supplies.
I also think you'll enjoy Itasca State Park very very much! Have a wonderful trip!
