Far from the Box

We had no idea what to expect from Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area going into the 4th of July weekend. What we found was one of the most genuinely special places we have ever camped in Minnesota and we almost can’t believe we waited this long.
The weekend started with a late arrival and a quiet first night settling into one of Minnesota’s most underrated camping destinations. Saturday morning, we wandered through the Crosby Farmers Market before spending the afternoon paddling and swimming at Little Emily Lake. That night camp pies around the fire reminded us why we keep coming back to this group every summer.
Then came the 4th of July. A big breakfast, a slow morning, and then the moment that stopped us all, Miners Mountain views followed by our first look at Lake Huntington. Crystal clear water in the middle of Minnesota that looks like it has no business being this beautiful. We stayed as long as we possibly could before a quick dinner and some of the best small town fireworks we have ever watched.
Cuyuna Country felt like America at its most comfortable. A hidden gem that deserves every bit of attention it hasn’t been getting.

Out 7/7/26 @ 5:00!
https://youtu.be/0vZS3OX8hfo?is=wKmH7cL9BZb38tPa

We have always had Frontenac State Park on the camping list. This summer we finally made it. And it delivered everything we hoped for and then some.

This video follows our group through a long weekend at one of Minnesota’s most underrated state parks, perched on the bluffs above Lake Pepin along the Mississippi River. From the moment we arrived we knew this one was going to be special.
The Bluffside Trail took us down 400 feet of stairs and switchbacks to the rocky shore of Lake Pepin and back up again, where Dusty delivered what might be the most unexpected and hilarious trailside TED talk any of us have ever witnessed. From there we explored Lake City, found ice cream, stumbled onto a quilt show in the prairie, and ended the day around the campfire
If you have ever wondered what the perfect camping weekend actually looks like, this might be it.

📍 Frontenac State Park, Minnesota

Out 6/30/26 @ 5:00!
https://youtu.be/zL7rz1G_0oE?is=tJ_nCwUIAZDTK9e9