Maplewood State Park Travel Guide — Minnesota

Our Maplewood State Park guide covers practical planning for Maplewood State Park Minnesota — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

For those seeking a genuine escape into Minnesota's natural splendor, Maplewood State Park Minnesota stands out as a premier destination. Our team at Roam States has meticulously compiled this guide to ensure your visit is as seamless and enriching as possible. Known for its stunning fall foliage, this expansive park offers a captivating landscape of rolling hills, diverse forests, and numerous sparkling lakes. It's an excellent destination for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing, providing a tranquil yet active retreat into the heart of the Leaf Hills region.

Why Visit Maplewood State Park

Maplewood State Park is not just another green space; it's a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems where the western prairies meet the eastern hardwood forests. This unique transitional zone creates an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, making every visit a discovery. We recommend it for its breathtaking seasonal transformations, particularly the celebrated autumn colors when the maple, basswood, and oak trees ignite in brilliant reds, oranges, and golds.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the park offers a peaceful respite from the everyday. With over 20 lakes and ponds nestled within its rolling terrain, opportunities for serene moments are abundant. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a quiet paddle on a glassy lake, or simply a scenic drive through shaded hollows and wooded knolls, Maplewood delivers. The park's commitment to preserving its natural beauty, including spectacular prairie restoration efforts, ensures a rich and authentic outdoor experience.

Furthermore, Maplewood State Park serves as a gateway to the broader Minnesota experience, offering a taste of the state's renowned natural beauty. It's a place where you can truly connect with the environment, observe diverse wildlife, and immerse yourself in a landscape shaped by ancient glaciers.

Who It's Best For

Maplewood State Park caters to a wide array of outdoor enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for many types of travelers. Our team believes it's particularly well-suited for:

• **Nature Photographers:** The dramatic fall colors, serene lake reflections, and diverse wildlife provide endless photographic opportunities. The vistas from Hallaway Hill are especially rewarding.
• **Hikers of All Levels:** With over 25 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to moderate climbs, there's a path for everyone, from casual strollers to avid trekkers.
• **Equestrian Enthusiasts:** The park boasts 20 miles of dedicated horse trails and even offers horse camping sites, making it a prime destination for those who love to explore on horseback.
• **Families:** With a sandy swimming beach on Lake Lida, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, families will find plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.
• **Wildlife Observers and Birdwatchers:** The varied landscape supports over 150 bird species and 50 species of mammals, including deer, beaver, raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks.
• **Paddlers and Anglers:** The park's eight major lakes and numerous ponds are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Beers Lake even has a fishing pier.

If you appreciate tranquil settings, diverse recreational opportunities, and stunning natural scenery, Maplewood State Park will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.

Getting There & Parking

How to Get There

Maplewood State Park is conveniently located in west-central Minnesota, approximately seven miles east of Pelican Rapids in Otter Tail County. Its address is 39721 Park Entrance Road, Pelican Rapids, MN 56572.

For those traveling from Fergus Falls, we recommend taking US-59 North until you reach the Otter Trail Scenic Byway, where you'll turn right. Continue for about 2.5 miles, then turn left to reach the park entrance. The park is also easily accessible from other surrounding towns and is a manageable drive from larger metropolitan areas like Fargo, North Dakota (approximately 50 miles away). We always advise checking local road conditions, especially during winter months.

Parking at Maplewood State Park

Upon arrival at Maplewood State Park Minnesota, a vehicle permit is required for entry and parking. Daily permits cost $7, while an annual permit is $35, and a second vehicle permit is $26. Handicapped permits are available for $12. These permits can be purchased upon entry.

The park offers plentiful parking throughout, including convenient lots at the visitor's center and various trailheads. For those bringing horses, day-use equestrian parking is also available. We appreciate the clear signage and ample space, which makes navigating the park and finding a spot for your vehicle straightforward, even for larger RVs up to 50 feet in length.

Remember that on certain days, Minnesota state parks offer free admission. In 2026, these "Free Park Days" are scheduled for Monday, January 19; Saturday, April 25; Saturday, June 13; and Friday, November 27. On these days, no vehicle permit is needed.

Top Things to Do

Maplewood State Park Minnesota is a hub of activity, offering a diverse range of experiences throughout the year. Our team has highlighted the top things to do during your visit:

Maplewood State Park Hiking Trails

The park is renowned for its extensive network of Maplewood State Park hiking trails, totaling over 25 miles. These trails wind through rolling hills, hardwood forests, and restored prairies, offering scenic views and diverse terrain.

• **Hallaway Hill Trail:** A must-do, this 1/2-mile, one-way hike from the picnic area leads to impressive overlooks of the surrounding lakes and landscape. It's particularly stunning during fall foliage season.
• **Nature Center Trails:** Starting at the Visitor Center patio, these 1.5 miles of trails meander through oak woodland and around Green Heron Pond, featuring a 600-foot floating boardwalk for close wildlife viewing.
• **Longer Loops:** For those seeking a more extended trek, loops like the Grass/Bass Lake Loop offer nearly 30 miles of trails to explore.

The Maplewood State Park hiking trails are generally well-marked and cater to various fitness levels, from easy walks to moderate climbs. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes, bringing water, and checking for seasonal updates, as conditions can change quickly.

Horseback Riding

Equestrian enthusiasts will find Maplewood State Park to be an exceptional destination, with 20 miles of dedicated horse trails. The park even offers 24 horse camping sites, providing a comprehensive experience for riders. Day-use equestrian parking is also available.

Water Activities: Lakes and Fishing

With eight major lakes and numerous ponds, water-based recreation is a cornerstone of the Maplewood State Park Minnesota experience.

• **Swimming:** A sandy swimming beach awaits visitors along the shore of South Lida Lake, perfect for cooling off on warm summer days.
• **Boating & Paddling:** Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are available for rent at the park office. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own boats and utilize the various boat launches.
• **Fishing:** The lakes are popular for fishing, with species like bass, northern pike, bluegill, and other panfish reported. Beers Lake features a convenient fishing pier. A Minnesota state fishing license is required.

Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching

The park's diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife. Visitors can spot deer, beaver, raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, and chipmunks, especially during dawn and dusk drives. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the over 150 species that breed here, including bald eagles, loons, kingbirds, swallows, and warblers. The park is part of the international Pine to Prairie Birding Trail.

Picnicking and Scenic Drives

Enjoy a leisurely picnic at one of the park's designated areas, such as the Josh Hanson (Veterans) Memorial Picnic Shelter near Lake Lida. A scenic 5-mile drive through the park offers stunning vistas of shady hollows, wooded knolls, and prairie restoration areas, providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation from the comfort of your vehicle.

Winter Activities

When the snow falls, Maplewood State Park transforms into a winter wonderland. We recommend cross-country skiing on 5 miles of groomed classical trails and 5 miles of ungroomed backcountry trails. Snowshoeing is permitted anywhere in the park except on groomed ski or snowmobile trails. There are also 21 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit Maplewood State Park Minnesota largely depends on your preferred activities, as each season offers a distinct charm. Our team's expert verdict is that late September through mid-October is the undisputed champion for experiencing the park's most famous attribute: the fall foliage.

However, the park offers compelling reasons to visit during other seasons:

• **Spring (March-May):** Spring brings a fresh burst of green, blooming wildflowers like trillium, hepatica, and lady's slipper, and active migrating songbirds. Maple syrup events are also held in the spring.
• **Summer (June-August):** Ideal for water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating on the park's many lakes. The extensive trails are perfect for hiking and horseback riding, and the warm weather makes picnicking a delight.
• **Winter (December-February):** While cold, winter offers a quiet, snow-covered landscape perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Regardless of the season, we always recommend checking the park's seasonal updates for current conditions and event schedules. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round.

Where to Stay Nearby

Maplewood State Park Lodging

For those looking to stay directly within Maplewood State Park Minnesota, camping is the primary option. The park offers a variety of campsites to suit different preferences, with all sites requiring a reservation.

• **Drive-in Campsites:** There are 71 drive-in sites available, with 32 offering electric hookups. Electric sites cost $34 per night, while non-electric sites are $24 per night. These sites are divided across Grass Lake Campground (Main, Knoll, and Hollow Loops) and Lake Lida Campground. RVs up to 50 feet can be accommodated.
• **Camper Cabins:** Five camper cabins are available, located near Beers Lake, offering a more rustic cabin experience. These are fairly secluded and offer immediate access to trails and the lake. Note that camper cabins typically do not have showers, flush toilets, or potable water at the site level, and pets are generally not allowed inside.
• **Backpack Sites:** For a more secluded experience, three backpack sites are available.
• **Horse Camp:** Equestrian enthusiasts can utilize 24 dedicated horse camping sites. These are open from May to November, with restrooms and water centrally located, but no electrical hookups. A horse is required to camp here.
• **Group Camp:** One group camp site (GC1) can accommodate up to 30 people, ideal for larger gatherings. Group camps typically operate from mid-May through October.

All campgrounds are pet-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash and cleaned up after. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.. Water facilities, including showers, are generally shut off in mid-October for the winter season. Reservations can be made online or by calling 866-857-2757. We strongly recommend making reservations in advance, especially for summer and fall visits, as waterfront and shaded sites fill quickly.

Hotels and Lodging Near Maplewood State Park

If camping isn't your preference, or if you're looking for more amenities, several hotels and vacation rentals are available in nearby towns. When considering Maplewood State Park lodging, we've identified some excellent options:

• **Pelican Rapids, MN:** The closest town to the park, Pelican Rapids offers convenient options like the Pelican Motel, a budget-friendly and pet-friendly choice just 8 miles from the park. You'll also find various vacation rentals and cabins, many situated on nearby lakes like Lake Lida.
• **Fergus Falls, MN:** Approximately 17 miles from the park, Fergus Falls provides more extensive hotel choices, including the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, which offers comfortable stays with amenities like complimentary breakfast and a fitness center. The Comfort Zone Inn is another budget option about 16 miles away.
• **Battle Lake, MN:** This charming lakeside town offers additional cabin and resort options, such as the Sunset Hilltop Retreat on Stalker Lake, providing private hilltop camping and panoramic lake views.
• **Detroit Lakes, MN:** A larger hub about 30-40 minutes away, Detroit Lakes offers a wider range of hotels and resorts.

For a unique experience, consider lakefront cabins and vacation rentals on nearby bodies of water like Lake Lida, Star Lake, or Loon Lake, which often come with docks, fire pits, and ample space for families. We recommend using sites like Expedia or Travelocity to compare prices and amenities for Maplewood State Park lodging, especially for 2026 dates.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Maplewood State Park Minnesota, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary, focusing on the park's highlights and nearby attractions.

Day 1: Immersion in Nature & Scenic Views

• **Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrival & Hallaway Hill Hike**
  • Arrive at Maplewood State Park, purchase your vehicle permit ($7 daily fee or use an annual pass).
  • Head to the picnic area and embark on the Hallaway Hill Trail. This 1/2-mile, one-way hike offers impressive panoramic views of the park's lakes and forests. Allow 1-1.5 hours for the hike and enjoying the scenery.
  • After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the Josh Hanson (Veterans) Memorial Picnic Shelter near Lake Lida.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Lake Lida & Horse Trails**
  • Spend the early afternoon relaxing at the sandy swimming beach on Lake Lida.
  • Rent a canoe or kayak from the park office and paddle on one of the park's serene lakes, such as Lake Lida or Beers Lake.
  • Alternatively, explore a section of the 20 miles of horse trails on foot or, if you brought your own, on horseback.
• **Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Wildlife Drive & Stargazing**
  • Take a leisurely scenic drive through the park at dusk. This is an excellent time to spot deer and other mammals.
  • Enjoy dinner at your campsite or at a local restaurant in Pelican Rapids.
  • As night falls, find a clear spot away from campfires for stargazing. Maplewood's remote location offers excellent dark skies.

Day 2: Exploration, Local Charm & Departure

• **Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Hiking & Birdwatching**
  • Begin your day with a hike on one of the longer Maplewood State Park hiking trails, perhaps the Grass/Bass Lake Loop, to experience more of the park's diverse terrain.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park is home to over 150 bird species.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Pelican Rapids Exploration**
  • Head into Pelican Rapids, the charming town just outside the park. Visit "Pelican Pete," the world's largest pelican statue.
  • Explore local shops like Mercantile on Main for unique artisan goods.
  • Consider a short paddle on the gentle Pelican River for a different perspective of the local landscape.
• **Late Afternoon/Evening: Departure or Extended Stay**
  • Depending on your schedule, you can depart or choose to extend your stay, perhaps visiting another nearby Minnesota gem like Itasca State Park (the headwaters of the Mississippi) or exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for a more rugged adventure. You could also venture to the Cathedral of Saint Paul or the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis for a city experience.

This itinerary provides a solid framework, but we encourage travelers to customize it based on their interests and the season of their visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maplewood State Park

Maplewood State Park camping

Maplewood State Park offers 71 drive-in campsites, including 32 with electric hookups, 5 camper cabins, 3 backpack sites, 1 group camp for up to 30 people, and 24 horse camping sites. All campsites require reservations, which can be made online or by phone (866-857-2757). Electric sites cost $34 per night, while non-electric sites are $24 per night. Pets are welcome on a leash, but not in buildings or on ski trails. Water facilities are typically shut off mid-October for the winter.

things to do in Pelican Rapids

Pelican Rapids, located just 7 miles from Maplewood State Park, offers a charming small-town experience. Visitors can paddle the gentle Pelican River, visit "Pelican Pete" (the world's largest pelican statue), explore local shops like Mercantile on Main, and enjoy nearby golf courses such as Lida Greens Golf Course. The town also hosts community events like the "Showcase Pelican Rapids" on March 28, 2026.

Maplewood State Park with kids

Maplewood State Park is an excellent destination for families with kids. Children will enjoy the sandy swimming beach on Lake Lida, easy hiking trails like portions of the Nature Center trails with its boardwalk, and opportunities for wildlife viewing (deer, beaver, birds). Renting a canoe or kayak for a gentle paddle on one of the many lakes is also a popular activity. Picnic areas are abundant for family meals.

best hotels near Maplewood State Park

For hotels, we recommend the Pelican Motel in Pelican Rapids (8 miles away) for a budget-friendly and pet-friendly option, or the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson in Fergus Falls (17 miles away) for more amenities. Many vacation rentals and cabins are also available on nearby lakes like Lake Lida and Star Lake, offering private docks and ample space, which can be ideal for families.

Maplewood State Park tips

Our top tips for visiting Maplewood State Park Minnesota include: plan your visit for late September to mid-October for peak fall colors; make camping reservations well in advance, especially for popular seasons; bring a Minnesota state park vehicle permit or purchase one upon entry ($7 daily); wear sturdy shoes for hiking and pack insect repellent during warmer months; and bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities. Always check the park's official website or Explore Minnesota (exploreminnesota.com) for the latest seasonal updates and conditions.

where to stay near Maplewood State Park

Beyond the park's campgrounds, nearby towns offer various lodging options. Pelican Rapids (8 miles away) has motels and numerous lakefront vacation rentals. Fergus Falls (17 miles away) provides more hotel choices with standard amenities. Battle Lake and Detroit Lakes also offer a range of cabins, resorts, and vacation homes, many with direct lake access and outdoor activities. For a unique experience, consider private hilltop campsites or lakeside cabins for a tranquil retreat.

We hope this comprehensive guide assists you in planning an unforgettable trip to Maplewood State Park. Whether you're chasing the vibrant fall colors, exploring the extensive hiking trails, or simply seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat, this Minnesota gem promises a truly rewarding outdoor experience.

Last updated: 2026-07-14 by the Roam States team.