Summer in Alexandria: Top Ways to Stay Cool

Chill out near the lake, hit the splash pad, and unwind at RV There Yet

When summer heats up in Minnesota, Alexandria is the perfect place to slow down, cool off, and make the most of long, sunny days. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay at RV There Yet, there’s no shortage of refreshing ways to beat the heat.

Here are some of our favorite local spots and campground perks to help you stay cool all summer long.

Hit the Lake — Or All of Them

Alexandria isn’t called “The Land of 10,000 Lakes” for nothing — and this town has more than a few of its own. Lake Carlos, Lake Le Homme Dieu, and Lake Agnes are all within a short drive from RV There Yet. You can swim, kayak, fish, or just lounge on the shore with your feet in the water.

Lake Carlos State Park is a guest favorite. The spring-fed lake is crystal clear and perfect for swimming or paddleboarding. There’s even a sandy beach and shaded picnic areas to stretch out and relax.

Splash Pad Fun for the Little Campers

Traveling with kids? Be sure to stop at the Alexandria City Park Splash Pad. It’s free, fun, and just five minutes from the campground. There’s a shaded picnic area, clean restrooms, and a playground right next to the water zone.

For an afternoon of play and cool-down, this is one of the easiest local activities to work into your stay.

Grab a Cold Cone (or Two)

Nothing says summer like an ice cream cone on a hot afternoon. Alexandria has some great local ice cream spots — all within a short drive from RV There Yet.

Tip Top Dairy Bar is an old-school favorite with classic cones, shakes, and fast food. Cherry Street Books downtown also serves local ice cream if you want to browse while you cool off. Or check out The Sugar Shack at Carlos Creek Winery for a fun twist on sweet treats.

Shady Campsites and Breezy Evenings

One of the perks of camping at RV There Yet is how comfortable the sites are — even on hot days. Our campground has shaded spots that stay cooler during the day, and the open layout helps keep the evening breeze moving through.

After a full day in the sun, there’s nothing better than relaxing under the trees or around a shaded picnic table with something cold in hand.

Catch an Outdoor Event or Fair (in the Shade)

Alexandria is packed with summer events — from wine tastings at Carlos Creek Winery to live music downtown and the Douglas County Fair in August.

If you’re camping during one of these weekends, many events offer shaded seating, indoor barns, or tents to escape the sun while still enjoying the fun.

Take a Bike Ride (Yes, Even in the Heat)

You’d think summer biking would be too hot — but Alexandria’s Central Lakes Trail has plenty of shade and places to stop and cool down. Start early in the day or pedal out before sunset for a breezy, scenic ride.

You can hop right on the trail just minutes from RV There Yet. It’s a favorite way to explore town without getting stuck in traffic or losing that laid-back camping vibe.

Back at Camp: Keep It Chill

Once you’re back at RV There Yet, you’ll find plenty of simple ways to cool down and kick back.

• Grab a cold drink and sit in the shade.
• Read a book outside while the kids run around.
• Set up a fan under the awning and enjoy your own personal breeze.
• Cook dinner outside without heating up the RV.

And don’t forget: the stars shine extra bright after a warm summer day. End your night around the fire with s’mores, laughter, and that unmistakable scent of summer.

Book Your Summer Stay at RV There Yet

Whether you’re looking for swimming holes, splash pad adventures, lakeside lounging, or a peaceful shady site — RV There Yet in Alexandria has it all. Just off Interstate 94, our campground is easy to get to and even easier to fall in love with.

So if you’ve been searching for a “campground near me” that checks all the boxes for summer fun and comfort, you’ve found it.

Book your site now and come see why summer in Alexandria is better when you’re already here.